Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Tacos feature tender, marinated chicken breast cooked to perfection and complemented by a fresh, vibrant Mediterranean salsa. Served in soft whole wheat pitas and topped with creamy tzatziki, this recipe merges classic Mediterranean flavors with the casual, handheld fun of tacos for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (plus zest for more lemon flavor)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Mediterranean Salsa
- 1 cup Persian cucumbers, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 2 tbsp parsley, chopped (or mint, basil, dill, etc.)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 lemon, juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling (optional)
For Serving
- 8 whole wheat pitas (thin, e.g. Joseph’s)
- 1/2 cup tzatziki
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large non-reactive bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken chunks to the marinade, stir to coat thoroughly, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, ideally 30 to 45 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Prepare the Mediterranean Salsa: While the chicken marinates, mix chopped Persian cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, diced red onion, chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and drizzle olive oil if desired. Set aside to let flavors meld.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and naturally releasing from the pan. Flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden on both sides.
- Warm the Pitas: Gently warm the whole wheat pitas on a griddle or skillet with a light coating of cooking spray, ensuring they become soft and pliable but do not break.
- Assemble the Tacos: Top each warm pita with cooked chicken pieces, a generous portion of Mediterranean salsa, and a dollop of creamy tzatziki. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer intensifies the lemon and herb flavors.
- Use fresh herbs such as mint or dill in the salsa for a different aromatic twist.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the whole wheat pitas with gluten-free flatbreads or lettuce wraps.
- Leftover chicken and salsa can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to adjust the level of salt and spices according to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
