Save These Greek Chicken Feta Stuffed Pitas are a vibrant and wholesome meal that brings the bright flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table. Featuring tender lemon-marinated chicken, chewy pearl couscous, and tangy feta cheese, this dish is as satisfying as it is fresh.
Save The secret to this recipe lies in the marinade, which tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with zest. Combined with a hearty pearl couscous salad and the salty kick of crumbled feta, every bite is a celebration of fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
- For the Greek Lemon Chicken: 500 g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, 2 tbsp olive oil, juice and zest of 1 lemon, 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp dried thyme, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper.
- For the Pearl Couscous Salad: 1 cup pearl couscous, 2 cups water or chicken broth, ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved), ¼ cup cucumber (diced), ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped), ¼ cup Kalamata olives (sliced), 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped), 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, salt and pepper to taste.
- For Assembly: 4 large pita breads (halved), 100 g (3.5 oz) feta cheese (crumbled), 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade), lettuce leaves (optional).
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the chicken
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes (up to 2 hours).
- Step 2: Prepare the couscous
- In a saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Add pearl couscous, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until tender. Drain and transfer to a large bowl to cool slightly.
- Step 3: Toss the salad
- Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and parsley to the couscous. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, season with salt and pepper, and toss well.
- Step 4: Grill the chicken
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Step 5: Warm the pitas
- Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or oven for a few minutes until soft and pliable.
- Step 6: Assemble
- Gently open each pita half. Layer with lettuce (if using), couscous salad, sliced chicken, crumbled feta, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki.
- Step 7: Serve
- Serve immediately while the chicken and pitas are still warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of sumac or smoked paprika to the chicken marinade. When grilling, avoid crowding the pan to ensure the chicken gets a nice golden-brown sear.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute quinoa or bulgur for pearl couscous if preferred. For a fiber boost, use whole-wheat pitas. You can also add grilled halloumi or chickpeas for different protein variations.
Serviervorschläge
This meal pairs exceptionally well with a crisp Greek white wine, such as Assyrtiko. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy an additional citrus punch.
Save Enjoy these stuffed pitas as a refreshing, restaurant-quality meal at home. They are a delightful way to explore the healthy and delicious Mediterranean diet.
Kitchen Q&A
- → Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes. Cooked chicken can also be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated before assembling the pitas.
- → What can I substitute for pearl couscous?
Quinoa, bulgur wheat, or regular couscous work well as alternatives. Orzo pasta or rice would also complement the Mediterranean flavors nicely while maintaining the dish's overall character.
- → How do I prevent the pitas from tearing when stuffed?
Warm the pitas gently before assembly to make them more pliable. Use a knife to carefully create a larger opening if needed. Don't overstuff each pita—layer ingredients lightly and consider serving extra salad on the side.
- → Is homemade tzatziki better than store-bought?
Homemade tzatziki allows you to control the thickness and garlic intensity. Simply mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh dill. Let it rest for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
- → Can these pitas be frozen for later?
It's best to freeze components separately. Cooked chicken, couscous salad, and tzatziki can each be frozen in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Assemble fresh pitas when ready to eat for the best texture and taste.
- → What sides pair well with these stuffed pitas?
A simple Greek salad with romaine, tomatoes, and red onion complements the meal beautifully. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or a side of hummus with warm pita triangles, also make excellent additions.