Chicken Pita Recipe: An Easy Journey to Mediterranean Bliss

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a chicken pita recipe that hits all the right notes: savory, tender chicken, cool and crunchy veggies, and that soft, warm pita that wraps it all up like a flavorful hug. I still remember the first time I had a chicken pita in a bustling market in Athens: simple, rustic, and unforgettable.

This chicken pita recipe fits perfectly into your weekday meal rotation or even as a make-ahead lunch. It’s light yet satisfying, packed with protein, and super versatile. You can enjoy it warm or cold, at a picnic or straight from your fridge on a busy afternoon. Best part? It tastes just as good as what you’d find at your favorite Mediterranean spot, maybe even better.

Whether you’re craving something fresh after a long day or hosting a casual get-together with friends, this recipe delivers. Plus, with endless topping possibilities, you can customize it to suit just about anyone at your table.

Why This Chicken Pita Recipe Works So Well

One reason this chicken pita recipe stands out is the balance of textures and flavors. The chicken is marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and a touch of yogurt, giving it both tenderness and bright flavor. You then grill or sear it for a slightly charred, caramelized finish. This flavor bomb of a protein is nestled into soft, chewy pita bread along with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, creamy tzatziki, and fresh herbs.

It’s a Mediterranean dream that doesn’t require hours of cooking or hard-to-find ingredients. You can prepare the marinade the night before, making it ideal for busy weeknights. And if you’re meal prepping, the components store well separately and assemble quickly for grab-and-go lunches.

Customization is key here. You can swap in shredded rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry, or turn this into a wrap with lavash instead of pita. Want to go dairy-free? Try a tahini sauce instead of tzatziki. Craving more heat? Add sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of harissa. The base recipe gives you a reliable structure, but you can tweak it to suit your mood or pantry staples.

Another win? It’s a crowd-pleaser. Kids love the handheld aspect, adults appreciate the bold flavor, and it’s easy to double or triple the recipe for group gatherings.

Recipe Card

Chicken Pita Recipe

Recipe by Soukayna

0.0 from 0 votes

Cuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this mouthwatering Greek chicken pita recipe. Packed with tender, marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce, this dish is a flavorful and healthy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Simple, quick, and satisfying, it’s a go-to recipe for a wholesome bite!

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into strips

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt

• 1 small cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• For Assembly

• 4 pita breads

• 1 cup lettuce, shredded

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)

Directions

• Marinate the Chicken:
  In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  Add chicken strips and coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
• Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
  In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
• Cook the Chicken:
  Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken strips for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
• Warm the Pita Bread:
  Lightly toast the pita bread in a dry skillet or wrap in foil and warm in a preheated oven (180°C/350°F) for 5 minutes.
• Assemble the Pita:
  Lay each pita flat and spread a generous amount of tzatziki sauce in the center.
  Add a layer of lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cooked chicken. Top with feta cheese if desired.
• Serve:
  Fold the pita and serve immediately. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a Greek salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pita bread for a healthier or dietary-friendly option.
• Ensure the chicken is cut evenly for consistent cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning in the marinade and sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Like this recipe?

Follow @therecipemasterblog on Pinterest

My Favorite Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Pita

1. Choose the Right Chicken: Boneless thighs offer more juiciness, but breasts work well for a leaner option.
2. Season Generously: Greek cuisine is all about bold flavors. Don’t skimp on garlic, lemon, and oregano in the marinade.
3. Keep it Fresh: Use fresh vegetables for a satisfying crunch and vibrant flavors.
4. Balance the Sauce: Tzatziki should be creamy but not watery. Squeeze out excess cucumber moisture to maintain consistency.
5. Toast Your Pita: Warm pita bread enhances texture and prevents breakage during assembly.

Chicken Pita Recipe Variants to Try

Spicy Chicken Pita

Swap the marinade’s traditional herbs for paprika, cayenne, and chili flakes. Serve with garlic mayo or a sriracha yogurt sauce instead of tzatziki for a spicy twist that’s full of heat but still balanced.

Chicken Pita with Hummus and Roasted Veggies

Instead of tzatziki, spread a generous layer of hummus inside the pita. Fill with roasted eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers alongside your grilled chicken for a vegetarian-friendly fusion that’s hearty and satisfying.

Greek Chicken Pita

Add kalamata olives, crumbled feta, and a touch of red wine vinegar to your veggie mix. This version leans into bold Greek flavors and pairs beautifully with traditional Greek salad on the side.

Chicken Caesar Pita

Use grilled chicken tossed with Caesar dressing, shaved Parmesan, and crisp romaine. It’s a fun twist that turns your favorite salad into a handheld meal.

FAQs about Chicken Pita Recipe:

Health Benefits of Chicken Pita Recipe

1. High in Protein: The chicken provides a substantial amount of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall energy.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers add vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential antioxidants.
3. Heart-Healthy Fats: The olive oil used in the marinade and tzatziki sauce contains monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.
4. Digestive Boost: The yogurt in tzatziki offers probiotics, promoting gut health and digestion.
5. Low in Sugar: This recipe uses natural ingredients with no added sugars, making it suitable for a balanced diet.

Nutrition Information

This chicken pita recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its approximate nutritional value per serving:

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~35g
• Fats: ~15g
• Fiber: ~4g
• Sugars: ~3g

Pairing Suggestions

1. Side Dishes:
   • A refreshing Greek salad with olives and feta cheese.
   • Crispy baked sweet potato wedges or seasoned fries.
   • Quinoa or couscous for a hearty Mediterranean-inspired side.
2. Beverages:
   • A chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea with mint.
   • White wine such as Sauvignon Blanc for a light and tangy pairing.
   • Greek ouzo or a non-alcoholic cucumber-infused water for authenticity.
3. Desserts:
   • Baklava for a traditional Greek touch.
   • Yogurt with honey and fresh berries for a light and healthy finish.

Let’s Wrap Up

There’s a reason this chicken pita recipe is a repeat meal in my kitchen. It checks all the boxes: fast, flavorful, filling, and flexible. Whether you’re entertaining, meal prepping, or just pulling together a weeknight dinner, this pita delivers satisfaction with minimal effort.

The marinated chicken alone is so flavorful that you’ll probably want to use it in other recipes too—on salads, grain bowls, or even tossed with pasta. And once you’ve got the base down, you can switch up the sauces, veggies, and herbs depending on the season or what you have on hand.

Fun Fact About the Chicken Pita Recipe

The chicken pita recipe traces its origins back to ancient Greece, where pita bread was used as an edible plate! This tradition of wrapping meats and vegetables in flatbreads has evolved over centuries and is now a global favorite, with countless variations tailored to different cultures.

For another delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish, check out our Easy Homemade Hummus Recipe. It pairs perfectly with these chicken pitas for a complete Greek feast!