If you are looking for a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings the best of Mediterranean zest to your kitchen, this Greek Chicken Tacos Recipe will quickly become your new weeknight favorite. Combining tender, juicy chicken thighs seasoned with aromatic Greek spices, fresh and crisp arugula salad tossed in creamy tzatziki, and the comforting warmth of toasted flour tortillas, this recipe marries the familiar fun of tacos with the refreshing taste of Greece. Every bite bursts with layers of texture and flavor, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for any casual gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance of taste and texture starts with quality, fresh ingredients that are simple yet essential. Each ingredient contributes something special, whether it’s the earthiness of the Greek seasoning, the cool creaminess of tzatziki, or the bright freshness of lemon juice.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, these stay tender even after cooking and soaking up the seasonings.
- ¾ teaspoon salt (divided): Enhances all the flavors throughout the dish when used properly in stages.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (divided): Adds a mild heat and depth to the chicken and salad.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided): Used for cooking and drizzling to keep everything moist and add that savory richness.
- 4 teaspoons Greek seasoning (divided): The star blend of herbs and spices that gives the chicken its unmistakable Mediterranean flair.
- 5 ounces arugula: Peppery greens that bring a fresh crunch and balance to the creamy tzatziki dressing.
- ¼ cup tzatziki sauce: Cool, creamy, and tangy cucumber-yogurt sauce that perfectly complements the spices.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved): Burst of juicy sweetness and vibrant color to brighten every bite.
- 3 cocktail cucumbers (diced): Refreshing crunch that plays off the warmth of the chicken.
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion: Adds subtle sharpness and a nice bite in the salad.
- ¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves: A fragrant herb that lifts the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from 1 lemon): Adds brightness and a slight tang to tie the salad ingredients together.
- 8 flour tortillas: Soft, warm, and lightly toasted to hold all the delicious fillings.
- Hummus (optional): Creamy layer to spread on the tortillas for an extra Mediterranean touch.
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional): Salty and creamy, great for adding richness on top.
- Fresh dill sprigs (chopped, optional): Adds a fresh herbal note and gorgeous presentation.
How to Make Greek Chicken Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by sprinkling the chicken thighs with half of the salt and black pepper. This ensures the seasoning penetrates the meat, giving it a well-rounded flavor as it cooks.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once it shimmers, place the chicken thighs in a single layer. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook another 7 to 8 minutes until the internal temperature hits 165°F. Moving the chicken to a clean plate, let it rest for 10 minutes—this rest is key to keeping the meat juicy and tender. Slice the chicken into ½-inch thick pieces, drizzle with another tablespoon of olive oil, and toss with two teaspoons of the Greek seasoning until every piece is beautifully coated.
Step 3: Toast the Tortillas
Wipe out the skillet and return it to medium-low heat. Place the flour tortillas one by one into the pan, toasting them gently for about 30 seconds on one side, then flipping for 15 to 30 seconds on the other side. The light toasting adds a warm, slightly crispy texture that perfectly supports all the delicious fillings.
Step 4: Prepare the Salad
In a large salad bowl, first toss the arugula with the creamy tzatziki sauce until each leaf gets a luscious coating. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, the rest of the Greek seasoning, along with the remaining salt and pepper. Gently toss just until everything is combined, keeping the salad fresh and vibrant.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Spread a thin layer of hummus onto each warm tortilla before layering in the sliced chicken and spoonfuls of the arugula salad. Finish it with crumbled feta and freshly chopped dill if you like, creating a harmonious burst of flavors and textures in every bite.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Tacos Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like crumbled feta cheese and fresh dill sprigs not only brings extra flavor but also makes your tacos look inviting and restaurant-worthy. For a bit of extra zest, a simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top just before serving wakes up all the flavors magnificently.
Side Dishes
Pair your Greek Chicken Tacos with a side of warm, crispy pita chips or a light Greek salad featuring olives, cucumbers, and red onions to complement the main dish. If you want something heartier, roasted lemon potatoes or a simple tabbouleh salad can also round out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the tacos on bright, patterned serving platters with small bowls of extra tzatziki, hummus, and feta cheese nearby so everyone can customize their own creation. Alternatively, use mini tortillas to create appetizer-sized bites perfect for parties, making it easy to double the fun with less mess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cooked chicken and salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping components separate prevents the tortillas and salad from becoming soggy while preserving their fresh flavors.
Freezing
The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently. It’s best to freeze the chicken solo, as the fresh salad ingredients and tortillas do not freeze well.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to keep it moist. Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or wrapped in foil in the oven to restore their soft yet slightly crisp texture before assembling your tacos again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful, chicken breasts can work as well—just be careful not to overcook them to prevent dryness.
What if I can’t find Greek seasoning?
You can easily make your own by blending dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. It’s a great way to customize the flavors exactly to your liking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi or seasoned and roasted chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version that still packs plenty of flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe for a party?
Definitely. The components like chicken, salad, and tortillas can be prepped ahead and kept separate for an easy taco bar setup where guests assemble their own tacos with their favorite toppings.
How spicy is the dish?
The Greek Chicken Tacos Recipe is mildly spiced thanks to the Greek seasoning blend. You can always add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce if you like more heat.
Final Thoughts
This Greek Chicken Tacos Recipe brings together the best flavors and textures in a fun, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect any night of the week. It’s a wonderful way to add a Mediterranean twist to your dinner table and impress your loved ones with something fresh and unique. Don’t hesitate to dive right in and make this recipe your own—you’ll love how effortlessly it combines wholesome ingredients with mouthwatering tastes.
Print
Greek Chicken Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Greek Chicken Tacos combine tender, juicy chicken thighs seasoned with Greek spices and paired with a fresh, vibrant arugula salad tossed in tzatziki sauce. Wrapped in warm, toasted flour tortillas and optionally topped with hummus, feta, and dill, they offer a flavorful Mediterranean twist on classic tacos, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- ¾ teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 teaspoons Greek seasoning, divided
Salad
- 5 ounces arugula
- ¼ cup tzatziki sauce
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cocktail cucumbers, diced
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
Toppings and Tortillas
- 8 flour tortillas
- Hummus (optional)
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- Fresh dill sprigs, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken: Sprinkle chicken thighs with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, evenly coating each piece.
- Cook chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 7-8 minutes on one side until golden, then flip and cook another 7-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer cooked chicken to a clean plate and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Slice and season: After resting, slice the chicken into ½-inch thick pieces. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons Greek seasoning. Toss gently to coat all pieces well.
- Toast tortillas: Wipe out the skillet and place it back on medium-low heat. Add the flour tortillas, toasting each side for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until lightly browned and pliable. Transfer to a clean plate.
- Prepare arugula salad: In a large salad bowl, toss the arugula with tzatziki sauce until well coated. Add cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onion, fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, remaining 2 teaspoons Greek seasoning, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Toss gently to combine all ingredients without bruising the arugula.
- Assemble tacos: Spread hummus on each warm tortilla if using. Layer with sliced chicken, then top with the arugula salad. Finish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh chopped dill if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Greek seasoning typically includes a blend of oregano, garlic, onion, thyme, and sometimes lemon zest—store-bought or homemade both work well.
- Chicken thighs are preferred for their juicy texture but chicken breasts can be substituted.
- To make this dish lower in carbs, swap flour tortillas for lettuce wraps.
- Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking ensures juicier meat and easier slicing.
- Fresh dill and feta are optional but add authentic Mediterranean flavors.
- Tzatziki sauce lends creaminess and tang; you can make your own or buy pre-made from the store.
