Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with a burst of Middle Eastern flavors? Dive into the tantalizing world of Grilled Chicken Pita with Jalapeno Yogurt! This mouthwatering recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a zesty jalapeno yogurt sauce, all wrapped in warm whole wheat pitas. Perfect for a quick meal or a delightful gathering, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. Get ready to impress your family and friends—let's fire up the grill!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 whole wheat pitas
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 jalapeno, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by trimming any excess fat and patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix cumin, salt, and pepper to create a dry seasoning rub. Evenly coat each chicken breast with the seasoning mixture.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 400°F (204°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken breasts for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the jalapeno yogurt sauce. In a separate bowl, combine plain yogurt, finely chopped jalapeno, lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the grill and let it rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Warm the whole wheat pitas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side to make them soft and slightly crispy.
- Slice the grilled chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Assemble the pitas by spreading a generous amount of jalapeno yogurt sauce, then layering the sliced chicken inside.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and the pitas are soft.
Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the dry seasoning rub for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat.
- Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To achieve perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will help you avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the heat level of the jalapeno yogurt sauce by adding more or less jalapeno, or even incorporating other herbs like cilantro or mint for a fresh twist.
- Serve with Fresh Veggies: Enhance your meal by adding fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, or lettuce inside the pita for added crunch and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the jalapeno yogurt sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It can also be used as a dip for veggies or chips!
- Experiment with Pita: While whole wheat pitas are a healthy choice, you can also try other types of pita or flatbreads for a different flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 95mg
