If you’ve never tried Grilled Chicken Pitas, you’re in for a treat! This simple yet flavor-packed dish is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and protein-rich meal. Whether you’re a busy professional, a fitness enthusiast, or just a lover of Mediterranean flavors, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. But what makes these pitas so special? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Grilled Chicken Pitas
Still not convinced? Here’s why grilled chicken pitas should be on your next meal plan:
✅ Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein, rich in vitamins, and packed with fresh ingredients.
✅ Quick & Easy – Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
✅ Customizable – Add your favorite toppings, sauces, and seasonings.
✅ Great for Any Occasion – Serve them as a casual lunch, a family dinner, or even at a summer BBQ.
✅ Full of Flavor – Juicy chicken, warm pita, and delicious Mediterranean spices create an unforgettable taste.
Now that you know why this dish is amazing, let’s get into what you need to make it!
🛒 What You Need for Grilled Chicken Pitas
To make the perfect grilled chicken pitas, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully.
1. Chicken
The star of the dish! The best options are:
- Chicken breast – Lean, tender, and easy to slice.
- Chicken thighs – More flavorful and juicy due to the higher fat content.
2. Marinade Ingredients
A good marinade enhances the flavor and keeps the chicken juicy. You’ll need:
✔ Olive oil
✔ Lemon juice
✔ Garlic (minced)
✔ Greek yogurt (optional for tenderness)
✔ Dried oregano
✔ Cumin
✔ Paprika
✔ Salt & black pepper
3. Pita Bread
You can use:
- Traditional white pita – Soft and fluffy.
- Whole wheat pita – A healthier option with more fiber.
- Homemade pita – Fresh and extra delicious if you have time!
4. Toppings & Add-ons
The best part about grilled chicken pitas is the toppings! Choose from:
- Fresh veggies – Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions.
- Sauces – Tzatziki, hummus, garlic sauce, or spicy mayo.
- Cheese – Feta cheese adds a salty, creamy touch.
- Olives & Pickles – For extra Mediterranean flavor.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Pitas
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare the perfect grilled chicken pitas. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve tender, juicy chicken and a well-balanced pita wrap that bursts with flavor!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
A great marinade is what makes grilled chicken juicy and flavorful. The combination of olive oil, citrus, garlic, and spices enhances the taste and keeps the chicken moist.
Ingredients for the Marinade:
✔ 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
✔ 3 tbsp olive oil
✔ 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
✔ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✔ ½ cup Greek yogurt (optional, for extra tenderness)
✔ 1 tsp dried oregano
✔ ½ tsp cumin
✔ ½ tsp paprika
✔ ½ tsp salt
✔ ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1️⃣ Mix the marinade – In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Greek yogurt, and all the spices.
2️⃣ Coat the chicken – Add the chicken to the marinade and toss until fully coated.
3️⃣ Let it marinate – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor).
⏳ Pro Tip: The longer you marinate, the juicier and more flavorful the chicken will be! If you’re short on time, even 15-30 minutes will work.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken to Perfection
Now, let’s grill the chicken until it’s golden and slightly charred on the edges.
Grilling Instructions:
🔥 Outdoor Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until fully cooked.
🔥 Stovetop (Grill Pan or Skillet): Heat a cast-iron grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side.
🔥 Oven Option: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Bake chicken on a lined baking sheet for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
✅ How to Know When Chicken is Done:
- The internal temperature should reach 165°F (use a meat thermometer).
- The chicken should have golden brown grill marks and be slightly firm when pressed.
🔪 Rest the Chicken Before Slicing: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juiciness. Then, slice it into thin strips for easy layering in your pita.
Step 3: Assemble the Perfect Grilled Chicken Pita
Now comes the fun part—putting everything together!
Assembly Instructions:
1️⃣ Warm the pita – Heat it in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or microwave for 10 seconds to soften.
2️⃣ Spread the base sauce – Add tzatziki, hummus, or garlic sauce on the pita.
3️⃣ Add grilled chicken – Place sliced grilled chicken in the center of the pita.
4️⃣ Layer on fresh veggies – Add lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives.
5️⃣ Sprinkle cheese (optional) – Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty touch.
6️⃣ Drizzle extra sauce – Finish with a drizzle of tzatziki or spicy mayo for extra flavor.
7️⃣ Wrap it up – Fold the pita and secure with foil or parchment paper.
🌟 Pro Tip: Want a crispier wrap? Lightly grill the assembled pita for 1-2 minutes per side before serving!
Enjoy Your Homemade Grilled Chicken Pitas!
Your homemade grilled chicken pita is now ready to enjoy! Serve it with a side of Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or crispy fries for a complete meal.
Variations of Grilled Chicken Pitas
One of the best things about grilled chicken pitas is their versatility! You can customize them with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:
1. Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Pita 🇬🇷
This classic variation is packed with traditional Mediterranean flavors.
What to Add:
✅ Tzatziki Sauce – A creamy yogurt-based sauce with garlic, cucumber, and dill.
✅ Feta Cheese – Crumbled on top for a tangy, salty kick.
✅ Kalamata Olives – Adds an authentic Greek touch.
✅ Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley, mint, or oregano for extra flavor.
🔥 Pro Tip: Pair with a Greek salad or lemon potatoes for a complete Mediterranean meal.
2. Spicy Grilled Chicken Pita 🌶️
If you love a spicy kick, this version is for you!
What to Add:
✅ Spicy Marinade – Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or harissa to the chicken marinade.
✅ Spicy Sauce – Drizzle with sriracha mayo, hot sauce, or harissa yogurt sauce.
✅ Jalapeños or Pickled Peppers – For extra heat and crunch.
✅ Pepper Jack Cheese – A melty, spicy cheese alternative.
🔥 Pro Tip: Serve with spicy sweet potato fries or Mexican-style corn for a fiery combo!
3. Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Pita 🏝️
For a lighter, refreshing version, this Mediterranean-inspired pita is perfect.
What to Add:
✅ Hummus Base – Spread hummus instead of tzatziki for a nutty, creamy taste.
✅ Cucumber-Tomato Salad – A mix of diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions.
✅ Lemon-Tahini Dressing – A drizzle of lemon juice, tahini, and garlic.
✅ Pomegranate Seeds – A touch of sweetness and crunch.
🔥 Pro Tip: Pair with grilled halloumi cheese or a quinoa salad for an authentic Mediterranean experience.
4. BBQ Grilled Chicken Pita 🍗
If you love smoky, sweet flavors, try this BBQ-inspired version.
What to Add:
✅ BBQ Sauce Marinade – Swap lemon juice for BBQ sauce in the marinade.
✅ Grilled Bell Peppers & Onions – Adds a smoky, caramelized flavor.
✅ Cheddar or Smoked Gouda – A rich, melty cheese option.
✅ Coleslaw Topping – A crunchy, tangy contrast to the warm pita.
🔥 Pro Tip: Serve with corn on the cob and baked beans for a BBQ feast!
5. Vegetarian Pita Alternative 🥗
Not a fan of chicken? No problem! Try this vegetarian-friendly option.
What to Use Instead of Chicken:
✅ Grilled Portobello Mushrooms – A meaty, umami-rich alternative.
✅ Falafel – Crispy chickpea fritters, perfect with hummus.
✅ Grilled Halloumi Cheese – A salty, chewy cheese that grills beautifully.
✅ Spiced Chickpeas – Toss chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, and paprika, then roast them.
🔥 Pro Tip: Pair with roasted eggplant dip (baba ganoush) and a side of tabbouleh salad for a full meal!
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Grilled Chicken Pitas
A grilled chicken pita is already a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dish can elevate the experience. Whether you want something fresh, crispy, or hearty, here are the best side dishes to serve with your pita!
1. Greek Salad 🥗
A classic Mediterranean side dish that complements the flavors of grilled chicken pitas perfectly.
What’s in it?
✔ Cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and Kalamata olives
✔ Crumbled feta cheese
✔ Olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and salt for dressing
🔥 Pro Tip: Serve it chilled for a refreshing contrast to the warm pita.
2. Tzatziki & Hummus with Pita Chips 🥣
If you love dipping, this is the perfect side dish!
How to Make It:
✔ Tzatziki: Mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill.
✔ Hummus: Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
✔ Pita Chips: Toast pita bread with olive oil and sea salt for a crispy texture.
🔥 Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika on top for extra flavor.
3. Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables 🍆🥕
Grilled or roasted veggies add a smoky, savory touch to your meal.
Best Vegetables to Use:
✔ Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and red onions
✔ Tossed in olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper
✔ Roasted at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes
🔥 Pro Tip: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the veggies before serving for an extra burst of flavor!
4. Crispy Garlic Potatoes 🥔
For those who want a hearty side dish, crispy garlic potatoes are the way to go!
How to Make It:
✔ Dice baby potatoes and toss them in olive oil, garlic, paprika, and rosemary.
✔ Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 30-35 minutes until crispy.
✔ Sprinkle with sea salt and fresh parsley before serving.
🔥 Pro Tip: Serve with a side of tzatziki or garlic aioli for dipping!
5. Lemon Rice 🍋
A fragrant and fluffy rice dish that pairs well with Mediterranean flavors.
How to Make It:
✔ Cook basmati or jasmine rice with vegetable broth.
✔ Mix in lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and parsley.
✔ Add a pinch of turmeric for a golden color.
🔥 Pro Tip: Serve with extra feta cheese and olives for an authentic touch!
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma) 🍃
A traditional Middle Eastern and Mediterranean appetizer that makes a great side.
What’s Inside?
✔ Cooked rice, onions, fresh herbs (dill, mint, parsley)
✔ Lemon juice and olive oil for flavor
✔ Rolled inside soft grape leaves and steamed until tender
🔥 Pro Tip: Serve cold with a side of tzatziki for dipping!
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Chicken Pitas
Here are some common questions people have about grilled chicken pitas, covering everything from preparation to storage and customization.
1. How do I keep my grilled chicken juicy and tender?
✅ Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) to infuse it with moisture and flavor.
✅ Don’t overcook it! Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken from the grill when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
✅ Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside.
2. Can I make grilled chicken pitas ahead of time?
Yes! Here’s how:
✔ Marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling.
✔ Grill the chicken in advance and store it in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
✔ Chop your veggies and prepare sauces ahead of time for quick assembly.
🔥 Pro Tip: Store everything separately and assemble the pita right before eating for the best texture!
3. Can I freeze grilled chicken pitas?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the components separately:
✔ Grilled chicken: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
✔ Pita bread: Store in a sealed bag in the freezer for up to 3 months. Warm it in a skillet or oven before using.
✔ Vegetables & sauces: Don’t freeze—fresh is always best!
4. What’s the best way to reheat grilled chicken pitas?
✅ For grilled chicken: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or microwave for 30-45 seconds.
✅ For pita bread: Warm in a dry pan or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
✅ For assembled pitas: If already assembled, wrap in foil and heat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 minutes.
🔥 Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving too long—it can make the chicken dry and the pita chewy.
5. What are the best substitutes for pita bread?
If you don’t have pita bread, try these alternatives:
✔ Naan bread – A soft, chewy option.
✔ Lettuce wraps – For a low-carb version.
✔ Tortillas or flatbreads – Work well as a wrap.
✔ Whole wheat or gluten-free pita – For a healthier or gluten-free alternative.
6. Can I make grilled chicken pitas vegetarian?
Absolutely! Try these delicious vegetarian substitutes:
✔ Falafel – Crispy chickpea fritters, great with hummus.
✔ Grilled halloumi cheese – A salty, chewy alternative.
✔ Spiced chickpeas – Roasted with olive oil, cumin, and paprika.
✔ Grilled mushrooms – Portobello mushrooms have a meaty texture.
🔥 Pro Tip: Swap tzatziki for vegan garlic sauce or hummus to make it fully plant-based!
7. What’s the best sauce for grilled chicken pitas?
The best sauces depend on your flavor preference:
✔ Tzatziki – A classic Greek yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic.
✔ Hummus – A creamy, nutty chickpea spread.
✔ Garlic sauce – A bold, zesty option for extra flavor.
✔ Spicy mayo or harissa sauce – If you love heat!
🔥 Pro Tip: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the pita for a richer taste.
If you love trying new recipes, be sure to check out some of our other delicious guides! From a Cracker Barrel Pancakes Review to discovering the secret behind Buttermilk in Cracker Barrel Pancakes, there’s something for every food lover. Plus, if you’re a fan of grilled meats, you might enjoy our Chuck Eye vs. Ribeye Comparison or learn How to Cook a Chuck Eye Steak to perfection! Happy cooking! 🍽️🔥
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Flavorful Grilled Chicken Pitas!
Grilled chicken pitas are the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and versatility. Whether you’re making them for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a crowd-pleasing meal, they are easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with Mediterranean goodness.
By using fresh ingredients, a well-seasoned marinade, and the right toppings, you can create a pita that’s just as delicious—if not better—than what you’d find in a restaurant. Plus, with the variety of flavors and side dishes available, you can mix it up every time you make them!
So, what are you waiting for? Fire up the grill, grab your pita bread, and enjoy every bite of this juicy, flavorful, and wholesome meal.
💡 Final Tip: Don’t forget to experiment with different sauces, toppings, and sides to make it uniquely yours!
Print
Grilled Chicken Pitas: A Delicious and Healthy Meal
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Grilled Chicken Pitas are packed with juicy marinated chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy yogurt sauce, all tucked into warm pita bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this dish is both nutritious and full of Mediterranean flavors!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Pitas:
- 4 whole wheat or regular pita breads
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
For the Yogurt Sauce:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp dried dill or fresh dill
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken strips, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove and let rest.Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir well and set aside.Assemble the Pitas
Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a pan for 1-2 minutes. Fill each pita with grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta. Drizzle with yogurt sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.Serve & Enjoy!
Serve warm with extra yogurt sauce on the side. Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinate Longer – More time = more flavor!
- Pita Swap – Try whole wheat or lettuce wraps.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Cook extra chicken for quick meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pita
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg