Greek Chicken Pita from Zoes Kitchen features tender grilled chicken, fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, all wrapped in a soft pita bread with a drizzle of creamy tzatziki sauce, delivering a refreshing and savory Mediterranean delight.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Plate
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
The chicken breast should be fresh or fully thawed for even grilling and optimal tenderness. Use high-quality olive oil and lemon juice to enhance the marinade's flavor and ensure the chicken remains juicy. Select ripe cucumbers and tomatoes for fresh, crisp texture that balances the rich feta cheese. Soft pita bread is essential for easily wrapping the ingredients without breaking. Your homemade Greek Chicken Pita from Zoes Kitchen copycat will capture the authentic Mediterranean taste and texture by following these ingredient tips.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Cut chicken breast into strips.
- In mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken to marinade; mix to coat evenly.
- Let chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Grill marinated chicken strips until cooked through, using tongs to turn.
- While chicken cooks, dice cucumber and tomato; thinly slice red onion.
- Warm pita breads on grill or pan.
- Place cooked chicken on each pita.
- Top with cucumber, tomato, and red onion.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over fillings.
- Drizzle tzatziki sauce on top.
- Fold or roll up pita bread to enclose filling.
- Serve immediately on a plate or serving platter.
Substitution
Greek Chicken Pita from Zoes Kitchen copycat menu offers a delicious balance of grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy feta with tzatziki in soft pita bread. If you don't have a grill or grill pan, you can cook the chicken in a skillet or bake it in the oven, adjusting cooking time accordingly. Feel free to substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option or use store-bought tzatziki sauce if you want to save time. If fresh pita bread is unavailable, warm tortillas or flatbreads can work as an alternative wrap. Your choice of vegetables can also be varied based on availability, such as swapping cucumbers with shredded lettuce or adding olives for a different Mediterranean touch.
Tips
Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness. Use tongs to turn the chicken strips on the grill for even cooking and avoid piercing the meat, which can release juices and dry it out. Warm the pita breads gently on the grill or pan to make them soft and pliable for easy folding or rolling. When assembling, don't overfill the pita to prevent it from tearing and ensure your Mediterranean delight stays intact.
Nutritions
Greek Chicken Pita from Zoes Kitchen provides a balanced blend of lean protein from grilled chicken breast and healthy fats from olive oil and feta cheese. The fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions contribute essential vitamins and antioxidants, while the tzatziki sauce adds probiotics from yogurt. Each serving delivers a nutritious portion of calcium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, supporting overall health and digestion. You can enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired meal that combines flavor with wholesome nutrition.
Storage
Store leftover Greek Chicken Pita components separately to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Place grilled chicken, chopped vegetables, and feta cheese in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep pita bread and tzatziki sauce in separate containers at room temperature or in the fridge, allowing you to assemble fresh pitas right before serving your meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken with lamb or beef strips marinated in the same herb and lemon mixture for a richer Mediterranean flavor. Swap the tzatziki sauce with hummus or baba ganoush to add variety and cater to different taste preferences. Try warming the pita bread with a brush of garlic-infused olive oil to enhance its aroma and texture. For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with grilled halloumi or roasted vegetables like zucchini and eggplant.
Allergies
Greek Chicken Pita contains common allergens such as dairy from the feta cheese and tzatziki sauce, which is typically made with yogurt. The pita bread may also contain gluten, which can trigger reactions in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. You should check all ingredient labels carefully if you have sensitivities or allergies to dairy, gluten, or any other component.
Why this recipe?
Greek Chicken Pita from Zoes Kitchen combines tender grilled chicken with fresh pita bread and vibrant Mediterranean flavors, appealing to health-conscious diners seeking a balanced meal. The menu item features wholesome ingredients like cucumber, tomato, and tzatziki sauce, delivering both taste and nutrition. You can recreate this flavorful dish at home using simple ingredients, making it a worthwhile copycat recipe to enjoy restaurant-quality Greek cuisine anytime. The blend of authentic spices and fresh vegetables sets this dish apart, ensuring a satisfying and delicious experience.