Bridget's Recipe Corner

 

It's funny how things work. As usual, I was thinking about what to make for dinner. I had defrosted some chicken, but wasn't sure if I wanted to make chicken salad or a pasta dish with chicken. Frequently, I find inspiration by something I see or something I eat. That said, this week's recipe was influenced by a Greek salad I had for lunch and the pita bread I walked by while shopping at Sunflower Market. I guess the dish was a winner as I had to gently remind my 13 year old to "slow down, chew and then swallow". He often eats as if it's his last meal...it's a good thing he's too young to date. Anyway, I hope you enjoy it too!
 

"Greek Influenced" Marinated & Grilled Chicken Pita Pockets

2 lbs. Thinly sliced, skinless chicken fillets
1/2 c. Newman's Own Oil & Vinegar dressing
seasonings for chicken (I used Capitol Hill & Wash Park seasoning from The Savory Spice Shop™ in Littleton)
4-6 pieces Pita bread (cut in half)

Yogurt sauce:

1 1/2 c. plain, low fat yogurt
1/2 c. finely diced cucumber (I prefer English cucumbers)
1/2 t. minced garlic
1/2 t. dill, finely chopped
dash Kosher salt

Greek "salad":
1 c. coarsely chopped tomatoes

(I used large cherry tomatoes from Sunflower Market)
1/2 t. Good Seasonings Italian dressing (dry)
1/4 c. Calamata olives, pitted and chopped
1/4 c. red onion, finely chopped
1-2 t. flat leaf parsley, finely chopped
1/2 c. Feta cheese crumbles
2 t. fresh lemon juice
freshly ground pepper

Place chicken in large, shallow bowl. Sprinkle with seasonings, coating well. Pour dressing over chicken, thoroughly coating. Refrigerate and let marinate for approximately 30 minutes. In separate small bowl, add all ingredients for yogurt sauce. Stir well, cover and refrigerate until ready to use. Repeat the same for the Greek salad. Preheat grill. When ready, place chicken on grill. Cook, turning once until done. I like to wrap the pita bread in foil and place on grill for approximately 5 minutes. When finished cooking, remove everything from grill. Chop chicken into bite sized pieces. Let everyone fill their own pitas...enjoy with your favorite side dish and beverage. I might suggest Fuente Elvira Verdejo.

For more information about the Savory Spice Shop, visit:

 www.savoryspiceshop.com.