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Mediterranean Chicken Tacos

Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Tacos

Delicious Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Tacos recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 1900 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the marinade::

  • 1 lb chicken breast (cut into 1-inch chunks)
  • 2.5 tbsp olive oil (I prefer Bertolli Extra Virgin for marinades)
  • 2.5 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves (freshly minced for best flavor)
  • 2 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

For the salsa::

  • 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
  • 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped, about 1/4-inch pieces)
  • 2 tbsp parsley
  • 3/4 cup feta (I use Athenos Crumbled Feta)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • salt
  • pepper

For the assembly::

  • 8 pitas
  • 1/2 cup tzatziki (gives a nice creamy and rich texture)

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 2.5 tbsp lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Add the chicken chunks and toss to coat evenly, ensuring all pieces are well covered with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 45 minutes if time allows—the longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes. I find that even 20 minutes makes a noticeable difference in the depth of flavor.
  • While the chicken marinates, prepare the fresh salsa. In a bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, seeded and diced tomatoes, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Add the crumbled feta cheese and toss gently to combine. Dress the salsa with 1 tbsp lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a crack of pepper to taste. I like to let this sit for a few minutes so the flavors meld together—it tastes so much better than if you assemble it right before serving.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until it's hot and shimmering. Working carefully, transfer the marinated chicken from the bowl to the hot skillet in a single layer, letting any excess marinade drip back into the bowl—don't crowd the pan, as the chicken needs space to develop a golden crust. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes without moving the pieces, then flip each chunk and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the chicken is golden brown on the outside and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
  • While the chicken finishes cooking, warm the pitas. You can do this directly over a gas flame, in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side, or wrapped in foil in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes—this makes them pliable and easier to fill without tearing. Once the chicken is cooked through and the pitas are warm, arrange them on a serving platter. Fill each pita with a generous portion of the seared chicken, top with a spoonful of the Mediterranean salsa from Step 2, and drizzle with tzatziki for creaminess and cooling contrast.