Description
These Chicken Pitas are a quick and flavorful meal featuring juicy grilled chicken marinated in balsamic vinaigrette, paired with a refreshing cucumber-yogurt sauce and fresh vegetables stuffed into warm pita pockets. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying lunch or dinner, they combine Mediterranean flavors with an easy assembly.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Cucumber Sauce
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Assembly
- 8 pita pocket halves
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breast halves in a bowl and cover them with 1/2 cup of balsamic vinaigrette. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to infuse the chicken.
- Prepare Cucumber Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt, finely chopped cucumber, finely chopped red onion, minced fresh parsley, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Chill this sauce in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Grill Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken on a lightly oiled grill rack over medium heat or use the broiler. Cook for 4-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly cooked and juicy.
- Assemble Pitas: Slice the grilled chicken into strips. Open each pita pocket half and fill with chicken strips, sliced cucumber, chopped grape tomatoes, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle the chilled cucumber-yogurt sauce over the fillings before serving.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
- For a smoky flavor, grilling is preferred but broiling is a good indoor alternative.
- Variations: Add fresh mint or dill to the sauce for extra herbal notes.
- Serve with a side of mixed greens or a light salad for a complete meal.
