These Mediterranean Chicken Tacos are packed with bright flavors and are so easy to make! Juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki come together for a fun twist on taco night!
They’re like a sunny vacation for your taste buds. I love to load mine with lots of toppings—and maybe sneak a bit of feta cheese on top. Who can resist that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast forms the backbone of this recipe. You can also use thighs for a juicier bite. If you’re vegetarian, try this with chickpeas or tofu for a protein-packed alternative.
Spices (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Oregano, Paprika): These spices give flavor. If you’re out of paprika, smoked paprika can add a lovely depth. Fresh herbs work great too; use 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano instead of dried.
Tortillas: Whole wheat tortillas add fiber. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas or lettuce wraps can work, too! A good wrap can really elevate the dish.
Greek Yogurt: This rich yogurt provides creaminess. If you prefer a lighter option, go for low-fat or dairy-free yogurt. Sour cream can also be a good substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
How Can You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but it’s all about temperature and time. You want your chicken to be juicy and maintain flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure your chicken is evenly diced for consistent cooking. About 1-inch pieces work well.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high and don’t overcrowd it. This allows the chicken to brown nicely instead of steaming.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes and use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Letting the chicken rest for a minute before serving keeps it juicy. I often sprinkle a bit of fresh lemon juice over it for extra flavor right before assembling the tacos!
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Tacos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Tacos:
- 4 whole wheat tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For The Sauce:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Optional: Feta cheese and sliced jalapeños for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Chicken Tacos recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a little over a quarter of an hour, you’ll have a fresh and tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the diced chicken, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated in the spices. This adds fantastic flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely golden brown color. You can check if it’s done by ensuring it’s no longer pink in the center.
3. Prepare the Salsa:
While the chicken is cooking, grab another bowl to make your salsa. Mix the diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, and parsley together. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on top, toss it lightly, and set it aside for later. This fresh veggie mix will brighten up your tacos!
4. Whip Up the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with lemon juice. Use a whisk to blend them together until smooth. Taste it and add more salt or lemon if desired. This tangy sauce will be a great complement to the chicken!
5. Warm the Tortillas:
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to warm up the tortillas. You can do this in the same skillet for about 30 seconds on each side, just until they are soft and pliable. This step makes them easier to fold and eat!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s taco time! Take a warmed tortilla and place a good amount of the cooked chicken right in the center. Top it generously with your fresh salsa and drizzle some of the lemon yogurt sauce over the top.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
If you like, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick. These toppings will make your tacos even more delicious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean Chicken Tacos immediately while they’re warm. Enjoy every bite of this fresh and healthy meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute diced chicken breast with thighs for a juicier option, or even use shredded rotisserie chicken to save time. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the chicken type.
How Do I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to add more heat, you can mix more sliced jalapeños into the salsa or incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes into the chicken seasoning. For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to your yogurt sauce!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Tacos?
Store leftover components separately in airtight containers; chicken and salsa should be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave, and enjoy fresh toppings with warm tortillas.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily swap the chicken for grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. For additional protein, consider using chickpeas or tempeh, and follow the same preparation steps for a delicious vegetarian option.
