Mediterranean Greek Chicken Wrap with Spicy Feta Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
-
500g (1 lb) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into strips
-
Provides a tender and juicy base for the wrap.
-
-
3 tbsp olive oil
-
Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a rich flavor.
-
-
2 tbsp lemon juice
-
Adds brightness and helps to tenderize the chicken.
-
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
Adds savory depth to the marinade.
-
-
1 tsp dried oregano
-
A key herb in Mediterranean cuisine for that signature flavor.
-
-
1 tsp ground cumin
-
Adds warmth and a subtle earthy taste.
-
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
Season to enhance the flavors.
-
For the Spicy Feta Sauce:
-
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
-
Provides a creamy and tangy base for the sauce.
-
-
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
-
Adds creaminess and tang to balance the feta.
-
-
1-2 tbsp olive oil
-
Helps create a smooth and rich texture for the sauce.
-
-
1 tbsp lemon juice
-
Enhances the freshness of the sauce.
-
-
1 tsp chili flakes (adjust for heat preference)
-
Adds a spicy kick to the sauce.
-
-
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
-
Adds freshness and complements the Mediterranean flavors.
-
-
1/2 tsp garlic powder
-
Enhances the savory profile of the sauce.
-
For the Wrap:
-
4 large pita or flatbreads
-
To wrap up the flavorful ingredients.
-
-
Fresh vegetables (optional):
-
Cucumber slices
-
Tomato slices
-
Red onion slices
-
Lettuce leaves
-
These vegetables add crunch, freshness, and color to the wrap.
-
-
Lemon wedges for garnish and extra freshness.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
-
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
-
Add the chicken strips and mix well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to marinate.
2. Make the Spicy Feta Sauce:
-
In a bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, chili flakes, fresh dill, and garlic powder.
-
Mix until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more olive oil to reach the desired consistency.
-
Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or chili flakes to your liking.
3. Cook the Chicken:
-
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until fully cooked and browned on the outside. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
-
Remove the chicken from the heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Wrap:
-
Warm the pita or flatbreads slightly in a pan or microwave.
-
Spread a generous amount of the spicy feta sauce in the center of each wrap.
-
Add a handful of cooked chicken strips, and top with fresh vegetables like cucumber, tomato, red onion, and lettuce.
-
Garnish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
5. Roll and Serve:
-
Carefully roll the wrap, folding in the sides as you go to keep the filling intact.
-
Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for added zest.
Benefits:
-
High in Protein: The chicken provides lean protein, making this wrap a satisfying and filling meal.
-
Packed with Flavor: The combination of the tangy feta sauce and fresh Mediterranean vegetables adds a burst of flavor.
-
Healthy Fats: Olive oil and Greek yogurt contribute heart-healthy fats.
-
Customizable: You can adjust the heat in the spicy feta sauce by adding more or fewer chili flakes to suit your preferences.
Nutritional Info (Approximate per wrap, based on 4 servings):
-
Calories: 400-450 kcal
-
Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
-
Protein: 35-40 g
-
Fat: 20-25 g
-
Fiber: 4-5 g
-
Sodium: 700-800 mg
Tips:
-
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken marinade and feta sauce ahead of time for an easier assembly when you’re ready to cook.
-
Grilled Vegetables: If you want to add extra flavor, try grilling the vegetables (such as the tomatoes or onions) for a smoky taste.
-
Add More Spice: For an extra kick, you can add a drizzle of hot sauce or more chili flakes to the wrap.
-
Leftovers: This wrap makes a great lunch for the next day. Just store the chicken, sauce, and veggies separately to prevent the wrap from getting soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q/A):
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A1: Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, so they make an excellent substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe.
Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
A2: Yes, you can replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian version.
Q3: Can I freeze the chicken for later use?
A3: Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken strips for up to 3 months. Just thaw and cook when ready.
Q4: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
A4: Absolutely! The spicy feta sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Just give it a stir before using.