Mediterranean Marinated Chicken Pita Sandwiches: A Flavor Explosion!

Craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal? Look no further than these Mediterranean Marinated Chicken Pita Sandwiches! Tender, juicy chicken, infused with bright, zesty Mediterranean flavors, nestled in warm, soft pita bread with fresh toppings – it’s a culinary experience that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece and beyond.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a light lunch, or even a picnic. It’s also incredibly versatile; you can easily customize the marinade and toppings to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Flavorful:** The Mediterranean marinade is the star of the show, packed with herbs, spices, and lemon juice that infuse the chicken with incredible flavor.
* **Healthy:** Lean chicken breast, fresh vegetables, and whole-wheat pita bread make this a nutritious and satisfying meal.
* **Easy to Make:** The recipe requires minimal effort and can be prepped ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Versatile:** Easily customizable to your taste preferences and dietary needs. You can swap out the chicken for other proteins, add different toppings, or use gluten-free pita bread.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** This recipe is always a hit with family and friends. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual gatherings.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

### For the Chicken Marinade:

* **Chicken Breast:** 1.5 pounds, boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* **Olive Oil:** 1/4 cup, extra virgin olive oil
* **Lemon Juice:** 1/4 cup, freshly squeezed
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves, minced
* **Dried Oregano:** 2 teaspoons
* **Dried Thyme:** 1 teaspoon
* **Dried Rosemary:** 1/2 teaspoon, crushed
* **Paprika:** 1 teaspoon, sweet or smoked
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon, or to taste
* **Black Pepper:** 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground
* **Red Pepper Flakes (optional):** 1/4 teaspoon, for a touch of heat

### For the Pita Sandwiches:

* **Pita Bread:** 6-8 pita breads, preferably whole wheat
* **Hummus:** 1 cup, store-bought or homemade
* **Cucumber:** 1 medium, thinly sliced
* **Tomato:** 1 medium, thinly sliced
* **Red Onion:** 1/4 medium, thinly sliced
* **Feta Cheese:** 1/2 cup, crumbled
* **Kalamata Olives:** 1/4 cup, pitted and halved
* **Fresh Parsley:** 1/4 cup, chopped
* **Tzatziki Sauce (optional):** For extra flavor

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Mixing Bowl:** For marinating the chicken
* **Resealable Bag or Container:** For storing the marinating chicken
* **Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill:** For cooking the chicken
* **Cutting Board:** For prepping the vegetables
* **Knife:** For slicing and chopping
* **Small Bowl:** For preparing tzatziki (if using)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure all ingredients are well combined.

### Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. You can even marinate it overnight.

### Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

### Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

### Step 5: Prepare the Pita Sandwiches

While the chicken is resting, prepare your pita bread and toppings. Warm the pita bread in a dry skillet or in the microwave for a few seconds until they are soft and pliable. Spread a generous layer of hummus on the inside of each pita bread. Add sliced cucumber, tomato, and red onion.

### Step 6: Slice the Chicken

Thinly slice the rested chicken breasts against the grain. This will make them easier to eat in the sandwiches.

### Step 7: Assemble the Sandwiches

Add the sliced chicken to the pita sandwiches, on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and fresh parsley. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce, if desired.

### Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Mediterranean Marinated Chicken Pita Sandwiches immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors! These are best enjoyed fresh.

## Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* **Marinate for at Least 30 Minutes:** While you can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, marinating it for 2-4 hours (or even overnight) will result in a more flavorful and tender chicken.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh herbs, lemon juice, and vegetables will elevate the flavor of your pita sandwiches.
* **Warm the Pita Bread:** Warming the pita bread makes it softer and more pliable, making it easier to fill and eat.
* **Customize Your Toppings:** Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or spinach.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can marinate the chicken and prepare the toppings ahead of time, making this recipe even easier to make on busy weeknights.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Chicken Thighs:** Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
* **Lamb or Beef:** Use thinly sliced lamb or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Substitute grilled halloumi cheese or falafel for the chicken for a vegetarian option.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free pita bread for a gluten-free version.
* **Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes to the marinade or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sandwiches for a spicy kick.
* **Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs in the marinade, such as basil, mint, or cilantro.
* **Different Cheese:** Use goat cheese or ricotta cheese instead of feta cheese.

## Serving Suggestions

These Mediterranean Marinated Chicken Pita Sandwiches are delicious on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of sides, such as:

* **Greek Salad:** A classic Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.
* **Tabbouleh:** A Middle Eastern salad with bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and mint.
* **French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries:** A crispy and satisfying side.
* **Lemon Rice:** Fluffy rice flavored with lemon juice and herbs.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

* **Marinate the Chicken:** You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in advance.
* **Prepare the Toppings:** Slice the vegetables and prepare any sauces ahead of time. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator.
* **Cook the Chicken:** You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before assembling the sandwiches.

## Storage Instructions

* **Leftover Chicken:** Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Assembled Sandwiches:** Assembled sandwiches are best eaten immediately. If you need to store them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 day. The pita bread may become soggy.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 450-550 per sandwich (depending on toppings)
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
* Fiber: 5-7 grams

## Conclusion

These Mediterranean Marinated Chicken Pita Sandwiches are a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for any occasion. With their bright, zesty flavors and customizable toppings, they are sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean! Bon appétit!

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

**Q: Can I grill the chicken indoors?**
A: Yes, you can grill the chicken indoors using a grill pan or a skillet.

**Q: Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?**
A: Yes, you can use store-bought tzatziki sauce to save time.

**Q: Can I add other vegetables to the sandwiches?**
A: Yes, feel free to add any other vegetables you like, such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or spinach.

**Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?**
A: Add more red pepper flakes to the marinade or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sandwiches.

**Q: Can I use a different type of bread?**
A: While pita bread is the traditional choice, you can use other types of bread, such as flatbread or naan.

**Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?**
A: Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can marinate the chicken, cook it, and prepare the toppings ahead of time. Store everything separately and assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to eat.

**Q: Can I freeze the cooked chicken?**
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw it completely before using.

**Q: What is the best way to reheat the chicken?**
A: You can reheat the chicken in the microwave, oven, or skillet. Make sure to heat it thoroughly before serving.

**Q: Are these sandwiches healthy?**
A: Yes, these sandwiches are a healthy option, as they are packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and whole grains (if using whole-wheat pita bread). They are also relatively low in fat and calories.

This recipe offers a delightful culinary adventure, bringing the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. Enjoy the process of creating these delicious pita sandwiches and savor every bite!