Pomegranate Glazed Mediterranean Chicken Wraps With Herbed Yogurt

Looking for a vibrant and healthy meal that’s bursting with flavor? These Pomegranate-Glazed Mediterranean Chicken Wraps with Herbed Yogurt are the answer! Tender, marinated chicken gets a sweet and tangy glaze, perfectly complemented by the cool freshness of a herbed yogurt sauce and crisp vegetables, all wrapped up in warm flatbread. This recipe is quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean!

What You’ll Need

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (300g / 10oz): We’re using about two medium-sized chicken breasts. Choosing boneless, skinless breasts keeps things easy and lean. Slicing them thinly ensures they cook quickly and absorb the delicious marinade.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp / 30ml): Extra virgin olive oil is best for its flavor and health benefits. It forms the base of our marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken and carry the aromatic spices.
• Sumac (2 tsp / 10g): Sumac is a vibrant crimson spice made from dried sumac berries. It has a tangy, lemony flavor that’s essential to Mediterranean cuisine and adds a unique depth to the chicken.
• Pomegranate Molasses (2 tbsp / 30ml): This thick, dark syrup is made from concentrated pomegranate juice. It provides a sweet-tart flavor and a beautiful glaze to the chicken. Look for it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tbsp / 15ml): Brightens the marinade and balances the sweetness of the pomegranate molasses. Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor!
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a pungent aroma and savory flavor to the chicken marinade. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred over pre-minced.
• Salt (½ tsp / 2.5g): Enhances all the flavors in the marinade and seasons the chicken.
• Black Pepper (¼ tsp / 0.5g): Adds a subtle spice and complexity to the marinade.
• Whole-Wheat Flatbreads or Pita (4 large / ≈ 240mm / 9-in): Whole-wheat provides a slightly nutty flavor and added fiber. Warming the flatbreads makes them pliable and easier to roll.
• Cucumber (½, julienned / ≈ 75g / 2.6oz): Adds a refreshing crunch to the wraps. Julienning (cutting into matchsticks) creates a nice texture.
• Tomato (1 medium, thinly sliced / ≈ 120g / 4oz): Provides juicy sweetness and color. Thinly sliced tomatoes are easier to wrap.
• Red Onion (½, thinly sliced / ≈ 50g / 1.8oz): Offers a sharp, slightly pungent flavor that complements the other ingredients. Thinly slicing mellows its bite.
• Plain Yogurt (½ cup / 120ml): Forms the base of our herbed yogurt sauce. Full-fat or Greek yogurt will give the best texture and flavor.
• Lemon Zest (1 tsp / ≈ 2g / ½ tsp): Adds a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor to the yogurt sauce.
• Garlic (1 small clove, minced – for yogurt): A touch of garlic enhances the flavor of the yogurt sauce.
• Fresh Mint Leaves (2 tbsp, chopped / ≈ 5g / 2 tbsp): Provides a cool, refreshing flavor to the yogurt sauce.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped / ≈ 5g / 2 tbsp): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the yogurt sauce.
• Pomegranate Seeds (1 tbsp / ≈ 10g / 1 tbsp): These jewel-like seeds add a burst of sweetness and a beautiful garnish.
• Extra Mint Leaves (for garnish): For a final touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Substitutions & Variations

Feel free to customize these wraps to your liking! Here are a few ideas:

• Chicken: You can substitute the chicken with lamb, beef, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Flatbread: If you don’t have flatbreads, pita bread, tortillas, or even large lettuce leaves can be used.
• Yogurt: Greek yogurt will result in a thicker sauce. You can also use a plant-based yogurt alternative.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, olives, or spinach.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pomegranate-Glazed Mediterranean Chicken Wraps

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, sumac, pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is the key to the vibrant flavor! Add the thinly sliced chicken strips to the bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate at room temperature for at least 20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat (around 200°C or 390°F). Place the marinated chicken strips on the hot grill, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Grill for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). The pomegranate molasses in the marinade will caramelize beautifully on the grill, creating a delicious glaze. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized strips. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender chicken.
3. Prepare the Herbed Yogurt: While the chicken is resting, it’s time to make the refreshing herbed yogurt. In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped fresh mint, chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the yogurt until you’re ready to assemble the wraps. Chilling the yogurt enhances its flavor and texture.
4. Warm the Flatbreads: Warm the whole-wheat flatbreads or pita breads on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side. The goal is to make them pliable and slightly warm, without making them crispy. This will make them easier to roll without tearing.
5. Assemble the Wraps: Lay a warmed flatbread flat on a clean surface. Layer the cucumber juliennes, thinly sliced tomato, and thinly sliced red onion evenly across the flatbread. Top with the sliced grilled chicken strips. Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of the herbed yogurt over the filling. Sprinkle generously with pomegranate seeds and a few fresh mint leaves for added freshness and visual appeal.
6. Roll and Serve: Fold in the sides of the flatbread and then roll it tightly from the bottom up, like a burrito. Cut the wrap diagonally in half. Arrange the cut wraps cut-side-up on a wooden board or platter. Drizzle any remaining herbed yogurt in a thin ribbon across the board, scatter extra pomegranate seeds, and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.

The Magic of Pomegranate Molasses

Pomegranate molasses isn’t just a sweetener; it’s a flavor powerhouse! Derived from concentrated pomegranate juice, it offers a unique sweet-tart flavor that’s central to Mediterranean cuisine. Its tanginess cuts through the richness of the chicken and yogurt, creating a balanced and incredibly satisfying taste. The molasses also contributes to the beautiful glaze that forms on the chicken during grilling, adding both flavor and visual appeal. It’s a key ingredient that elevates this wrap from simple to spectacular.

Choosing the Right Flatbread

The type of flatbread you use can significantly impact the final result. Whole-wheat flatbreads provide a slightly nutty flavor and added fiber, making them a healthier option. Pita bread is also a great choice, offering a soft and slightly chewy texture. Look for flatbreads that are pliable and easy to roll without tearing. If your flatbreads are a bit dry, lightly brush them with olive oil before warming them up.

Tips for the Perfect Herbed Yogurt

The herbed yogurt is a cooling and refreshing counterpoint to the savory chicken and vegetables. Don’t skimp on the fresh herbs! Mint and parsley are essential for that authentic Mediterranean flavor. For an extra creamy yogurt, you can strain the plain yogurt through cheesecloth for about 30 minutes before adding the herbs and lemon zest. This removes excess whey, resulting in a thicker and more luxurious texture.

Why Mediterranean Flavors Work So Well

The combination of flavors in this recipe – pomegranate, sumac, lemon, mint, and parsley – is a classic example of Mediterranean cuisine. These flavors complement each other beautifully, creating a bright, fresh, and incredibly satisfying taste experience. The use of fresh herbs and vibrant spices is characteristic of the region, known for its healthy and flavorful dishes. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will be more flavorful and tender, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to develop even further.

Is sumac essential?

While sumac adds a unique tangy flavor, you can substitute it with a pinch of lemon zest and a dash of paprika if you can’t find it.

Enjoy Your Mediterranean Escape!

These Pomegranate-Glazed Mediterranean Chicken Wraps are a delightful and healthy meal perfect for lunch or dinner. The vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients will transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast! Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later inspiration! [Pinterest Save Button/Link]

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