Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Chicken Pita Delight
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Grilled Chicken Pita Delight during my travels in the Mediterranean, where I was inspired by the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. After experimenting in my kitchen, I perfected the balance of spices and textures that make this dish shine. It has become a favorite in my household, and I'm excited to share it with others who appreciate healthy and tasty meals."

With over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, I have honed my skills in creating delicious lunch recipes that are both healthy and satisfying. My passion for fresh ingredients and bold flavors drives my culinary creations, ensuring each dish is memorable and enjoyable. I strive to inspire others to embrace cooking and explore the world of Mediterranean flavors.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Chicken Pita Delight served on a plate

Why This Grilled Chicken Pita Delight Recipe Works

This Grilled Chicken Pita Delight stands out due to its perfect blend of grilled chicken and fresh vegetables, all enveloped in warm, fluffy pita. The marinade adds depth of flavor, while the tzatziki sauce provides a cool and creamy contrast. It's a balanced meal that doesn't compromise on taste.

The technique of marinating the chicken ensures it stays juicy and flavorful during grilling. The quick assembly makes it an ideal option for a lunch that can be ready in no time, allowing you to enjoy delicious Mediterranean flavors without extensive preparation.

💡 Professional Tip

For the juiciest chicken, allow the marinated strips to rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling. This helps to ensure even cooking and enhances flavor. Additionally, avoid overcooking the chicken to maintain tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling. You can also chop the vegetables a day in advance. Just assemble the pitas right before serving to keep them fresh.

If you're looking for alternatives to tzatziki sauce, you can use hummus or a yogurt-based dressing. For a dairy-free option, consider using a creamy avocado spread or a tahini sauce. Each will provide a different flavor profile while still complementing the grilled chicken.

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also check that the juices run clear when pierced with a knife. If you are using a meat thermometer, this is the most accurate way to ensure it's cooked correctly.

Yes, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately after it's cooked. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bags, and it should last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat before assembling the pitas.

Grilled Chicken Pita Delight pairs well with a side of Greek salad or a light quinoa salad. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of hummus and pita chips for a complete meal. These sides enhance the Mediterranean flavors of the main dish.

Grilled Chicken Pita Delight can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the pitas from getting soggy, it's best to store the chicken and vegetables separately from the pitas and assemble them just before serving.

You can prepare and grill the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to assemble the pitas just before eating. This way, the pitas remain warm and the vegetables stay crisp.

To reheat the grilled chicken, place it in a microwave-safe container and cover it to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Avoid reheating the pita in the microwave to maintain its texture; instead, warm it on a skillet or in the oven.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken may end up dry if overcooked or not well-marinated.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and keep an eye on the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and remove it from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Sometimes the grilled chicken might not have a nice crispy exterior.

Solution: Ensure the grill is properly preheated and the chicken strips are not overcrowded on the grill. This allows for better airflow and searing, leading to a crispier texture.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the chicken is overcooked, it may become tough and dry.

Prevention: Prevent overcooking by using a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature and remove the chicken from the grill as soon as it reaches 165°F. Marinating also helps keep the chicken moist.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center of the chicken is undercooked, it can be unsafe to eat.

Recovery: If you suspect undercooking, return the chicken to the grill for an additional few minutes until it reaches the proper temperature. Always cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check for doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt chicken can occur if the grill is too hot or the chicken is left on too long.

Prevention: To prevent burning, adjust the grill temperature to medium heat, and monitor the chicken closely. Flip the chicken strips often to achieve even cooking without burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your dish is too sweet, try adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the dish is too salty, add some sugar or a splash of water to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: If the flavor is bland, enhance it with additional spices, herbs, or a sprinkle of salt to boost the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Chicken Pita Delight

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Pita Delight

The key to a fantastic Grilled Chicken Pita Delight lies in using fresh and high-quality ingredients. The chicken should be boneless and skinless for a leaner option, while fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes add crunch and flavor. Whole wheat pitas provide a hearty base that complements the dish beautifully.

Always opt for quality olive oil and fresh herbs to elevate the flavors. For the best taste, use locally sourced ingredients if available. This attention to quality ensures that every bite of your Grilled Chicken Pita Delight is bursting with flavor.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Select chicken breasts that are plump and firm to the touch. Avoid any that are slimy or have an off smell. For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
  • Whole Wheat Pita: Choose pitas that are fresh and soft. If they're too hard, they won't wrap around the fillings well. You can warm them on the grill or in a toaster to enhance their texture before serving.
  • Tzatziki Sauce: For a quick and easy tzatziki sauce, combine Greek yogurt with diced cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill. This adds a refreshing element to the dish and can be adjusted to your taste.
Cooking process for Grilled Chicken Pita Delight

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Grilled Chicken Pita Delight is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Begin by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor. Preheat your grill to ensure that the chicken gets a nice sear, locking in the juices.

After grilling, the assembly of the pitas is quick and hassle-free. Just layer the ingredients as desired, and you have a nutritious meal ready to go. This method not only ensures a delicious outcome but also a visually appealing dish.

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Chicken Pita Delight

The most important technique for achieving a perfect Grilled Chicken Pita Delight is proper marination and grilling. Marinating the chicken not only enhances flavor but also helps in achieving moist and tender meat. Additionally, grilling at the right temperature ensures that the exterior gets a nice char while keeping the inside juicy.

Grilled Chicken Pita Delight

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
    For tzatziki sauce
  • 1/2 cucumber, grated
    For tzatziki sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    For tzatziki sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    For tzatziki sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
    For tzatziki sauce

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
    Cut into strips
  • 4 whole wheat pitas
    For serving
  • 1 cup cucumber
    Diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • 1/2 red onion
    Thinly sliced
  • 1 cup lettuce
    Shredded
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese
    Crumbled
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    For marinating
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    For marinating

Instructions

  1. Marinate Chicken

    In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Add chicken strips and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Prepare Grill

    Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.

  3. Grill Chicken

    Place marinated chicken strips on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

  4. Warm Pitas

    While the chicken is grilling, warm the pitas on the grill for about 1-2 minutes on each side until slightly toasted.

  5. Prepare Vegetables

    While chicken cooks, chop cucumber, halve cherry tomatoes, and slice red onion. Set aside.

  6. Assemble Pitas

    Once chicken is cooked, take a warm pita and fill it with grilled chicken, lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.

  7. Add Sauce

    Drizzle tzatziki sauce over the filled pita.

  8. Serve

    Repeat the process for remaining pitas. Serve immediately while warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. It's best to keep the chicken and veggies separate from the pitas to prevent them from getting soggy. Properly stored, they can last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grilled Chicken Pita Delight with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, consider pairing it with quinoa or couscous drizzled with lemon. Adding a glass of refreshing lemonade or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or avocados. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a spicy sauce. You can also switch out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.