Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Tacos Recipe
Introduction
These Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Tacos are a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Tender marinated chicken pairs perfectly with a vibrant vegetable salsa and creamy tzatziki, all wrapped in warm pita bread. It’s an easy, satisfying meal full of bright Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2.5 tbsp olive oil (preferably extra virgin)
- 2.5 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, freshly minced
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1.25 cups cucumbers, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup tomatoes, seeded and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 pitas
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Add the chicken chunks and toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 45 minutes for deeper flavor.
- Step 2: While the chicken marinates, prepare the salsa by combining cucumbers, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley in a bowl. Add crumbled feta cheese and toss gently. Dress with lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then let sit for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Transfer the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Cook 3 to 5 minutes without moving, flip, and cook another 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
- Step 4: Warm the pitas by heating directly over a gas flame, in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side, or wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes. Assemble the tacos by filling each pita with chicken, topping with Mediterranean salsa, and drizzling with tzatziki for creaminess.
Tips & Variations
- For extra smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of tzatziki if you want a lighter creamy topping.
- Add sliced olives or chopped fresh mint to the salsa for extra depth.
- If you want a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes in the marinade.
Storage
Store leftover cooked chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling. Keep the pitas wrapped at room temperature or lightly warmed before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy when grilled. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms or use seasoned chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian taco option.
PrintGrilled Mediterranean Chicken Tacos Recipe
Delicious Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Tacos featuring tender marinated chicken, fresh Mediterranean salsa with feta, and creamy tzatziki, all wrapped in warm pita bread. Perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 2.5 tbsp olive oil (preferably Bertolli Extra Virgin)
- 2.5 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, freshly minced
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
For the Salsa:
- 1.25 cups cucumbers, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup tomatoes, seeded and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (about 1/4-inch pieces)
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta (Athenos Crumbled Feta recommended)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
For the Assembly:
- 8 pitas
- 1/2 cup tzatziki
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Add the chicken chunks and toss to coat evenly, ensuring all pieces are fully covered. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 45 minutes for deeper flavor.
- Make the Mediterranean Salsa: While the chicken marinates, combine diced cucumbers, seeded diced tomatoes, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and parsley in a bowl. Add crumbled feta and gently toss. Dress with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let sit for a few minutes to meld flavors.
- Sear the Marinated Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering. Add marinated chicken in a single layer, allowing excess marinade to drip back. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes, then flip and cook another 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Warm the Pitas and Assemble the Tacos: While chicken cooks, warm pitas over a gas flame, in a dry skillet (30 seconds per side), or wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to make pliable. Fill each pita with cooked chicken, top with Mediterranean salsa, and drizzle with tzatziki. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 20 minutes enhances flavor significantly.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet while searing to ensure proper browning.
- Warming the pitas makes them more pliable and prevents tearing when filled.
- The salsa can be prepared ahead and kept chilled to let flavors develop.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
Keywords: Mediterranean chicken tacos, grilled chicken, chicken tacos, Mediterranean salsa, feta, tzatziki, pita tacos
