If you’re looking to add a delicious twist to your meal routine, chicken and feta cheese arayes are the perfect choice. These Middle Eastern-inspired stuffed pita pockets are packed with juicy chicken, creamy feta, and a blend of flavourful herbs and spices that make every bite irresistible. This versatile recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a dinner or a snack, especially when paired with a freshly made tzatziki dip (Serves 6 portions).
Ingredients:
Arayes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 500g chicken mince
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- 5 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
- 2 small chilli’s, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 pinch salt & pepper
- 3 wholemeal Lebanese bread, halved
Tzatziki
- 1.5 cups Greek yoghurt
- 2 cucumbers, grated
- 1 pinch salt & pepper
- 1 tsp dill (optional)
Method:
- In a bowl mix together chicken mince, garlic, feta cheese, spinach, basil, mint, chilli’s, salt, pepper and one tablespoon olive oil until combined. Split the mixture into six portions and place each portion of mixture into the Lebanese bread. Evenly spread the chicken mixture into the Lebanese bread and press the bread together.
- Place a large saucepan over a medium heat, once hot add olive oil and place the arayes flat into the saucepan. Cook on both sides of the bread for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove arayes from heat.
- To make the tzatziki, grate cucumber and sprinkle a pinch of salt over the cucumber. Leave the cucumber for around 10 minutes – the salt draws out excess water from the cucumber so the tzatziki will be a thick consistency. After 10 minutes, squeeze out all of the excess water from the grated cucumber. In a bowl mix the cucumber, yoghurt, salt, pepper and dill until all ingredients are combined.
- Serve the arayes with the tzatziki and enjoy!
TIP: When making arayes, get creative with your fillings! You can use lamb, beef, pork mince, or any combination you like. Add your favourite seasonings, cheeses, and vegetables for a delicious twist.
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