Greek Chicken Feta Stuffed Pitas (View Print Version)

Lemon chicken, feta, and couscous salad in warm pitas with tzatziki

# What You'll Need:

→ Greek Lemon Chicken

01 - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - Juice and zest of 1 lemon
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
06 - ½ teaspoon dried thyme
07 - ½ teaspoon salt
08 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper

→ Pearl Couscous Salad

09 - 1 cup pearl couscous
10 - 2 cups water or chicken broth
11 - ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
12 - ¼ cup cucumber, diced
13 - ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
14 - ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
15 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
16 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
17 - 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
18 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Assembly

19 - 4 large pita breads, halved
20 - 3.5 oz feta cheese, crumbled
21 - 1 cup tzatziki sauce
22 - Lettuce leaves, optional

# Method:

01 - 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 refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours.
02 - In a saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Add pearl couscous, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until tender. Drain and transfer to a large bowl to cool slightly.
03 - 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.
04 - Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill 5 to 6 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
05 - Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or oven for a few minutes until soft and pliable.
06 - Gently open each pita half. Layer with lettuce if using, couscous salad, sliced chicken, crumbled feta, and a generous spoonful of tzatziki.
07 - Serve immediately while pitas are warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bright and Tangy: The combination of fresh lemon juice, garlic, and dried oregano creates a classic, irresistible flavor.
  • Versatile: It works beautifully as a quick weeknight dinner or a portable lunch.
  • Texture Contrast: The combination of warm, soft pita bread with cool, crisp vegetables and creamy tzatziki is simply perfect.
02 -
  • Resting is Key: Always let the grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep the meat juicy.
  • Couscous Texture: If the couscous is sticking together, toss it with a teaspoon of olive oil right after draining.
  • Warm Pitas: Do not skip warming the pitas; it makes them much easier to open without tearing.
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