Mediterranean Chicken Pita Bowl with Creamy Feta Sauce
Mediterranean Chicken Pita Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce are fresh, colorful, and packed with bold flavors inspired by classic Mediterranean cooking. Tender pieces of lemon garlic chicken are seasoned with oregano, paprika, and cumin, then served over crisp greens and vibrant vegetables. Warm pita wedges and a rich, tangy feta yogurt sauce tie everything together into a balanced and satisfying meal. These bowls are perfect for quick dinners, healthy lunches, or meal prep since they can be assembled easily and customized with your favorite toppings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Ingredients
For the Chicken
1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite size pieces
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1½ tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Feta Sauce
¾ cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 small garlic clove
1 to 2 tbsp water (as needed for thinning)
Black pepper, to taste
For the Bowl
3 to 4 pita breads, warmed and cut into wedges
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
2 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes while preparing other ingredients.
Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
Remove chicken from heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain juices.
In a blender or food processor, combine feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
Add water gradually until the sauce reaches a creamy, pourable consistency. Season with black pepper.
Warm pita breads in a dry skillet or oven until soft and slightly toasted, then cut into wedges.
Prepare the bowl base by placing chopped greens in each serving bowl.
Top with cooked chicken, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and pita wedges.
Drizzle generously with creamy feta sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Tips
Cut chicken into even pieces for consistent cooking.
Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure proper browning.
Let chicken rest briefly before serving to keep it juicy.
Use full fat Greek yogurt for a richer and creamier feta sauce.
Adjust sauce thickness slowly with water to avoid making it too thin.
Taste the feta sauce before serving and add extra lemon juice if you prefer more tang.
Slice onions thinly to keep their flavor balanced rather than overpowering.
Warm pita just before serving so it stays soft and fresh.
Use fresh herbs at the end for the best aroma and flavor.
Prepare vegetables ahead of time for quicker assembly during busy meals.
Variations
Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or lamb for a different protein option.
Use quinoa or rice instead of pita for a grain bowl variation.
Add roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flair.
Include avocado slices for added creaminess.
Swap feta sauce with hummus or tzatziki for a different dressing.
Add chickpeas for extra plant based protein.
Turn the bowl into a wrap by stuffing everything into whole pita pockets.
Use baby spinach instead of romaine for a softer green base.
Add toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Spice the chicken with chili flakes or cayenne for a hotter version.
Q&A
Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, cook and refrigerate for up to three days.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, thighs provide a juicier texture and richer flavor.
Is the feta sauce thick?
It should be creamy and pourable. Adjust with water if needed.
Can I bake the chicken instead of pan cooking?
Yes, bake at 400°F for about 18 to 20 minutes.
What if I do not like olives?
Simply omit them or replace with roasted vegetables.
Can I make this gluten free?
Use gluten free pita or serve over rice or greens only.
How long does the feta sauce last?
Store refrigerated for up to four days.
Can I use store bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, just season and warm it before assembling.
What other herbs work well?
Mint or basil add a fresh Mediterranean touch.
Can this be served cold?
Yes, it works well as a chilled salad style bowl.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 38 g
Fat: 26 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Chicken Pita Bowls with Creamy Feta Sauce offer a vibrant balance of fresh vegetables, savory seasoned chicken, and tangy, creamy dressing. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe makes an ideal everyday meal that feels both healthy and satisfying. The flexibility of the bowl format allows endless customization depending on personal taste or dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it warm for dinner or chilled for lunch, this flavorful Mediterranean inspired dish is a dependable option that combines ease, nutrition, and delicious homemade flavor.