Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe

If you adore effortless dinners packed with Mediterranean flair, you are going to fall head over heels for this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe. It combines tender chicken, creamy tzatziki, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta cheese into a cozy, all-in-one dish that practically cooks itself after a quick assembly. Imagine biting into fluffy rice infused with savory chicken broth, bright pops of cucumber and olives, and that unmistakable garlicky, herby zing from the tzatziki sauce—this casserole brings sunshine to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe works together beautifully, creating layers of flavor and texture without overwhelming complexity. From the tender chicken to the fresh veggies and fragrant herbs, these essentials are simple but crucial to achieving that perfect balance.

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: The hearty protein base that keeps this casserole satisfying and delicious.
• 1 cup uncooked white rice: Acts as the comforting carb foundation that soaks up all the savory juices.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Ensures the rice cooks perfectly and adds rich, savory depth.
• 1 cup cucumber, diced: Adds crispness and a cool contrast to the warm casserole.
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped: Brings a subtle bite and sweetness that enhances every bite.
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved: Joins the medley with juicy bursts of natural sweetness and color.
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced: Introduces a briny, tangy kick that screams Mediterranean.
• 1 cup Greek-style tzatziki sauce: The star creamy sauce packed with garlic and herbs that ties it all together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Amplifies the garlic flavor and warms every morsel.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds that classic Greek herb note for authenticity.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the vibrant flavors.
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Sprinkled on top for tangy creaminess and a golden crust.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: A fresh pop of green that brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.

How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze later on.

Step 2: Layer the Rice

Evenly spread the uncooked white rice across the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. This layer acts like a cozy bed that will soak up all the delicious flavors from the broth and toppings.

Step 3: Add the Chicken Broth

Pour the chicken broth over the rice, taking care that the rice is fully submerged. This is the secret to perfectly cooked rice that’s tender and fluffy once baked.

Step 4: Distribute the Chicken

Scatter the cooked, shredded chicken evenly across the rice. Using pre-cooked chicken speeds things up and ensures juicy, tender bites throughout the casserole.

Step 5: Add Fresh Vegetables

Top the chicken with diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and sliced Kalamata olives. These fresh ingredients give the casserole a vibrant crunch and Mediterranean zest.

Step 6: Mix the Tzatziki Sauce

In a bowl, combine the Greek-style tzatziki sauce with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This flavorful sauce mix will coat all the layers below and create that signature garlicky herb essence.

Step 7: Spread the Tzatziki Mixture

Spread the seasoned tzatziki sauce evenly over the veggies and chicken, making sure everything is well covered to infuse the casserole with creamy deliciousness.

Step 8: Top with Feta Cheese

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously on top. This adds a salty tang and that irresistible golden crust once baked.

Step 9: Bake Covered

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to cook fully and the chicken to warm through without drying out.

Step 10: Bake Uncovered

Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. This final step lets the feta cheese get a lovely golden color and slight crispness.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes out of the oven. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness before digging in.

How to Serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is classic and perfect, but you can also add a few extra Kalamata olives or a drizzle of extra tzatziki sauce right before serving for added creaminess and flair.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a meal in itself but pairs beautifully with light Mediterranean sides like a crisp Greek salad, warm pita bread, or roasted vegetables to round out your dinner plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or family-style meal, serve in the casserole dish straight from the oven with bowls of extra tzatziki and lemon wedges for guests to personalize each bite with bright freshness and creamy sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can keep in the freezer for up to 2 months, making it a great make-ahead option.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a microwave or oven until warmed through. Cover with foil when reheating in the oven to keep the casserole moist. A quick fresh sprinkle of parsley after reheating makes it feel brand new.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can swap in brown rice, but keep in mind it will need a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth quantity and baking time accordingly to ensure it cooks through.

Is this casserole dairy-free?

The recipe includes feta cheese and tzatziki sauce, which contain dairy. To make it dairy-free, you could omit the feta and use a dairy-free yogurt to make your own tzatziki, although the flavor will differ slightly.

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?

This recipe calls for cooked chicken to keep the prep quick and the cooking time focused on the rice. Using raw chicken would require longer baking to ensure it cooks safely.

How spicy is this casserole?

It’s very mild, with flavors leaning toward fresh, tangy, and herby rather than spicy. You can add a pinch of red chili flakes to the tzatziki mixture if you want a gentle heat.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it perfect for busy evenings or entertaining.

Final Thoughts

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe is pure comfort wrapped in fresh Mediterranean goodness. It’s a hands-off, crowd-pleasing dish that’s ideal for those busy nights when you still want to impress with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a treasured staple in your rotation!

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