Potbelly's Chicken Mediterranean Copycat Recipe

Last Updated Dec 22, 2024 By I Titov

Potbelly's Chicken Mediterranean Copycat Recipe

Photo: Chicken Mediterranean

Chicken Mediterranean from Potbelly features tender grilled chicken, fresh spinach, ripe tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese, all layered on a warm, toasted flatbread for a flavorful and wholesome Mediterranean-inspired sandwich.

Equipments

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs
  • Baking sheet (optional, for toasting flatbread if not using grill)
  • Oven or toaster oven (optional, for warming flatbread)
  • Serving plates

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • 1 cup ripe tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 4 pieces flatbread
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Using boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures tender and evenly cooked meat, which is essential for a perfectly balanced Chicken Mediterranean sandwich. Fresh spinach leaves and ripe tomatoes add vibrant colors and nutrients, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. Kalamata olives contribute a distinctive briny taste, complemented by the tangy crumbled feta cheese, so be sure to pit and slice the olives properly to avoid bitterness. Olive oil and lemon juice create a simple, zesty dressing with dried oregano that enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile. Your Chicken Mediterranean from Potbelly copycat menu will shine by layering these fresh, high-quality ingredients on warm, toasted flatbread.

Instructions

  • Preheat grill or grill pan.
  • Trim and cut chicken breast as needed.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
  • Add chicken breasts to marinade; toss to coat evenly.
  • Let chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  • Grill marinated chicken on grill or grill pan until fully cooked; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove chicken from grill and let rest; then slice into strips.
  • Warm flatbreads on grill, oven, or toaster oven until soft and lightly toasted.
  • Arrange fresh spinach leaves on each flatbread.
  • Add sliced grilled chicken on top of spinach.
  • Sprinkle diced tomatoes over chicken.
  • Add sliced Kalamata olives.
  • Scatter crumbled feta cheese over top.
  • Fold or roll flatbread as desired.
  • Serve immediately on plates.

Substitution

Chicken Mediterranean from Potbelly copycat menu captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors with tender grilled chicken, fresh spinach, ripe tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese layered on warm flatbread. If Kalamata olives are unavailable, you can substitute with green olives or capers for a similar briny taste. When grilling chicken, using a grill pan works well indoors, but baking or pan-searing can be alternatives, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. Toasting flatbread on a baking sheet in the oven or toaster oven is an excellent option if a grill is not accessible, providing a crispy base for your sandwich. Your choice of fresh ingredients and proper seasoning will elevate the overall taste and authenticity of this Mediterranean-inspired dish.

Tips

Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat. Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes allows the flavors of olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano to penetrate the meat, enhancing tenderness and taste. When warming flatbread, avoid overheating to keep it soft and pliable for easy folding or rolling. Use tongs to handle the chicken and flatbreads on the grill to prevent tearing or uneven cooking while keeping your hands safe.

Nutritions

Chicken Mediterranean is a nutrient-rich meal with lean protein from grilled chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and immune function. Fresh spinach provides a significant source of iron, calcium, and vitamins A and K, while ripe tomatoes contribute antioxidants like lycopene, promoting heart health. Kalamata olives and feta cheese add healthy fats and calcium, enhancing the sandwich's Mediterranean nutritional profile. You benefit from this wholesome combination of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals in a balanced, flavorful flatbread wrap.

Storage

Store any leftover Chicken Mediterranean sandwich components in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness; grilled chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, while fresh spinach, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese last about 1 to 2 days when kept properly chilled. Flatbreads should be stored in a sealed plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for longer preservation. When ready to enjoy, reheat the grilled chicken thoroughly and assemble with fresh toppings to ensure your sandwich retains its optimal flavor and texture.

Variation or Alternatives

You can substitute chicken breast with boneless, skinless turkey breast for a leaner option while maintaining the tender texture. Instead of grilling, cook the marinated chicken under the broiler or in a hot cast-iron skillet to create a similar charred flavor indoors. Swap Kalamata olives for green olives or roasted red peppers to vary the flavor profile, and replace feta cheese with goat cheese or shredded mozzarella to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a drizzle of tzatziki sauce or hummus inside the flatbread to enhance creaminess and authenticity.

Allergies

Chicken Mediterranean from Potbelly contains common allergens such as dairy from the feta cheese and potential sulfites in the Kalamata olives. The flatbread may contain gluten, which can trigger reactions for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. You should inform the restaurant about any allergies to ingredients like dairy, gluten, or olives to ensure your safety.

Why this recipe?

The Chicken Mediterranean menu from Potbelly restaurant appeals to people because of its fresh, flavorful ingredients like grilled chicken, hummus, cucumbers, and feta cheese, which combine to create a healthy and satisfying meal. This menu item balances protein and vegetables, catering to those seeking nutritious yet tasty options. Making a copycat version at home allows you to customize flavors and ingredients while saving money compared to dining out. Your homemade Chicken Mediterranean can deliver the same vibrant Mediterranean tastes with personalized freshness and control over portion sizes.



About the author.
I Titov is a passionate home cook and dedicated food enthusiast, known for experimenting with diverse cuisines and copycat recipes in his kitchen.

Disclaimer.
The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While this website strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios.

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