Name: Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean Fusion
Ingredients: 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; 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 feta cheese (crumbled, e.g., Athenos Crumbled Feta); 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 8 pitas; 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast (cut into 1-inch chunks)

2.5 tbsp olive oil

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

3/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)

1 tbsp lemon juice (for salsa)

Salt and pepper (to taste)

8 pita breads

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 marinate for at least 15 minutes, up to 45 minutes for more flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the salsa by combining cucumbers, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley in a bowl. Add crumbled feta, then dress with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss gently and let sit for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add marinated chicken in a single layer without crowding. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes without moving, then flip and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).

Step 4: Warm pitas by heating over a gas flame, in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side, or wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble tacos by filling each pita with chicken, topping with the Mediterranean salsa, and drizzling with tzatziki sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken on an outdoor grill instead of cooking in a skillet.

Swap pita bread for soft flour tortillas for a different taco experience.

Add chopped fresh mint or dill to the salsa for an herbal twist.

Use Greek yogurt instead of tzatziki if you want a simpler sauce option.

Marinate the chicken overnight for even deeper flavor if time permits.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy during cooking. Just adjust cooking time since thighs may need a bit longer to cook through.

Is there a vegetarian option for these tacos?

Absolutely. Substitute grilled halloumi cheese or marinated grilled vegetables like zucchini and eggplant in place of chicken for a delicious vegetarian version.