Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the familiar aroma of garlic and oregano wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. My mind was buzzing with the promise of a satisfying meal as I prepared to whip up a Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole. This dish is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy tzatziki—all baked together in one pan for an effortlessly hearty dinner. It’s the perfect remedy for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet flavorful. Not only does it save you from the fast-food rut, but it also offers a family-friendly meal that won’t break the bank. Curious to discover the delicious secrets behind this easy casserole? Let’s dive in! Why is this casserole a must-try? Simplicity in Every Bite: This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole takes minimal prep time, making it a go-to for busy nights. Hearty and Flavorful: Packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a delightful tzatziki finish, each bite bursts with Mediterranean flair. One-Pan Wonder: No fuss, no mess—everything cooks in one dish, giving you more time to enjoy with family. Versatile Ingredients: Easily switch out chicken for turkey or chickpeas, making it a fantastic fit for various dietary needs. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole is bound to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more. Looking for more delicious ideas? Consider pairing it with a Greek salad for a refreshing side! Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Ingredients • Here’s what you need for this Mediterranean delight! For the Base Cooked Chicken (2 cups) – Brings heartiness that pairs perfectly with the tzatziki and rice. Substitution: You can use cooked turkey for a lighter option or chickpeas for a vegetarian dish. White Rice (1 cup, uncooked) – Soaks up the flavors from the broth and tzatziki, forming the casserole base. Note: Brown rice can be used but may require additional cooking time and more liquid. Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Using broth instead of water adds depth to the flavor. Tip: High-quality broth is recommended for the best taste. For the Freshness Cucumber (1 cup, diced) – Adds a refreshing bite to balance the richness of the dish. Note: Use fresh; you could substitute with zucchini if desired. Red Onion (1/2 cup, finely chopped) – Provides mellow sweetness that contributes to the aromatic base. Grape Tomatoes (1 cup, halved) – Introduces color, sweetness, and moisture to the casserole. Kalamata Olives (1/2 cup, pitted and sliced) – Offer a briny contrast, enhancing Mediterranean flavors. For the Creamy Finish Tzatziki Sauce (1 cup) – The creamy hero of this dish, providing the signature flavor. Substitution: Greek yogurt can be used in place of tzatziki, but adjust for texture with a squeeze of lemon juice. Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the savory essence. Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon) – Adds earthy depth to the overall flavor. Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Essential for balance. Feta Cheese (1 cup, crumbled) – Adds a tangy finish, perfect for melting. Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – For garnish, elevating presentation. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the crucial first step in making your Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole, ensuring that your dish cooks evenly and comes out perfectly baked after just the right amount of time. Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking as it bakes, allowing for a smooth serving experience. With the dish ready, we can start layering in the delicious ingredients. Step 3: Layer the Rice Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will serve as the flavorful base for your casserole. Take a moment to ensure the rice is distributed evenly, creating a nice foundation that will soak up all the savory juices as it cooks. Step 4: Add the Broth Pour the chicken broth carefully over the rice, making sure all the grains are submerged. Look for bubbles forming as it settles, indicating a good soak is starting. Using broth instead of water will enhance the overall taste of your Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole, so choose a high-quality option. Step 5: Layer the Chicken Next, evenly distribute the cooked chicken over the layer of rice. This will provide a hearty and satisfying texture to your casserole. Make sure the chicken is spread out nicely, covering the rice so every bite is packed with flavor and protein. Step 6: Add the Vegetables Scatter the diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and sliced kalamata olives on top of the chicken. The colorful layers will not only look beautiful but also enhance the Mediterranean flavors of this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole. Step 7: Mix the Tzatziki Sauce In a separate bowl, combine the tzatziki sauce with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is incorporated. Then, spread this savory mixture evenly over the vegetables and chicken, ensuring each layer gets a taste of that creamy goodness. Step 8: Sprinkle the Feta Lastly, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously on top of the casserole. This will melt beautifully as the dish bakes, creating a tangy, delicious topping that contrasts wonderfully with the softer elements below. Step 9: Cover and Bake Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to cook tenderly. Keep an eye on it to ensure everything is developing perfectly under the foil. Step 10: Finish Baking After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil to let the casserole crisp up. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the feta is slightly golden and the edges turn crisp—this will add a delightful texture to your Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole. Step 11: Cool and Garnish Once done, allow the casserole to cool briefly before serving. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley to elevate its appearance and add a burst of freshness. This final touch ensures your dish is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Step 12: Serve and Enjoy Now your Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is ready to be enjoyed! Scoop out hearty portions, making sure to get all layers, and share this delightful Mediterranean dish with your family and friends. Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and play around with your favorite flavors and ingredients! Turkey Option: Swap cooked chicken for cooked turkey for a leaner remake without losing any flavor. It’s perfect for holiday leftovers! Chickpea Delight: For a vegetarian take, replace chicken with canned chickpeas. They add protein and a hearty texture while absorbing all those delicious seasonings. Zucchini Twist: Substitute diced cucumber for zucchini to give a slightly different flavor and change the texture. It retains moisture and adds a lovely pop of green! Goat Cheese Swap: Instead of feta, use crumbled goat cheese for a tangy, creamy topping that enhances the Mediterranean flair. Herb Infusion: Toss in a handful of fresh herbs like dill or mint for an additional burst of flavor. Fresh herbs bring a vibrant freshness to the dish! Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat. A little spice can elevate the overall taste experience. Mixed Vegetables: Feel free to combine different veggies like bell peppers or spinach. Add whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand to keep it versatile and colorful. Brown Rice Base: Substitute white rice with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber. Just remember, it may require additional liquid and longer cooking time. For more scrumptious ideas, try pairing this casserole with a refreshing Greek salad or some warm garlic bread! Make Ahead Options These Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole preparations are ideal for those busy days when you need a wholesome meal ready to go! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions, layering the ingredients in your baking dish, then cover tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate. This helps maintain the casserole’s freshness and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it straight in the oven, adding 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time since it’s coming from the fridge. Trust me, this delicious casserole is just as comforting and tasty when prepped ahead, allowing you more time to unwind with your loved ones. What to Serve with Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Embrace the Mediterranean spirit with vibrant pairings that elevate your comforting casserole into a full, delightful meal. Greek Salad: Bright, fresh vegetables tossed with tangy feta and olives provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of creamy tzatziki sauce left on your plate. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables add warmth and a delightful crunch, enhancing the flavor profile of your hearty dish. Pita Chips: These crunchy companions are ideal for scooping up the creamy casserole, offering a fun texture and taste that every bite needs. Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy quinoa infused with fresh herbs adds healthy grains, complementing the casserole’s Mediterranean flavors beautifully. White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc balances the dish’s richness, enhancing the dining experience with crisp notes. Tzatziki Dipping Sauce: Serve extra tzatziki on the side for those who crave the flavor, adding a cool and creamy element to each bite. 【Markdown hidden in the additional notes】 Storage Tips for Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture, or use the microwave for a quicker option. Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance; just increase baking time by 10-15 minutes if cooking straight from the fridge. Expert Tips for Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Choose Quality Ingredients: Utilize high-quality chicken broth and feta cheese; this ultimately enhances the flavor of your Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole. Perfect Rice Texture: Ensure the rice is completely submerged in broth; this prevents it from drying out and guarantees a fluffy texture. Prep Ahead: Consider assembling the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it well and bake straight from the fridge, allowing for an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time. Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite vegetables! Just be mindful of the moisture content to keep the casserole balanced and beautifully baked. Mind the Baking Time: Watch closely during the final uncovered baking step; you want the feta to turn golden but not burnt for the best taste and texture. Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right chicken for the casserole? Absolutely! When selecting chicken for the Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole, look for cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for maximum flavor and convenience. Ensure it’s tender, moist, and free from dark spots. For a lighter option, cooked turkey works splendidly, or you can opt for chickpeas for a vegetarian delight. How should I store leftovers from this casserole? Leftovers of your Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat gently in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This way, you can enjoy a comforting meal even on your busiest days! Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Divide it into portions and store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight prior to reheating, and when you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven, covered with foil, to maintain moisture. What should I do if the rice isn’t tender after baking? Very! If the rice isn’t tender after the initial baking time, it may not have absorbed enough liquid. Simply add a splash of chicken broth over the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. This extra steaming will help ensure your rice becomes perfectly fluffy. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! If you have specific dietary needs, consider using gluten-free rice and check your tzatziki sauce for any potential allergens. For pets, avoid sharing this dish as ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to them. Always read labels to ensure safety and consult your family’s dietary preferences. Can I prepare the casserole in advance? Yes! This is one of the beauties of the Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole. You can assemble it a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, allow for an additional 10-15 minutes of cooking time, as it will go in cold from the fridge, ensuring all flavors meld wonderfully! Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole for Cozy Nights This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights, combining Mediterranean flavors in one dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 6 portionsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 cups Cooked Chicken You can use cooked turkey for a lighter option or chickpeas for a vegetarian dish.1 cup White Rice Brown rice can be used but may require additional cooking time and more liquid.2 cups Chicken Broth High-quality broth is recommended for the best taste.For the Freshness1 cup Cucumber Use fresh; you could substitute with zucchini if desired.1/2 cup Red Onion1 cup Grape Tomatoes1/2 cup Kalamata Olives Pitted and sliced.For the Creamy Finish1 cup Tzatziki Sauce Greek yogurt can be used in place of tzatziki, but adjust for texture with a squeeze of lemon juice.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Dried OreganoSalt to tastePepper to taste1 cup Feta Cheese Crumble on top before baking.2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chopped, for garnish. Equipment 9x13 inch baking dish Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.Spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish.Pour the chicken broth carefully over the rice.Evenly distribute the cooked chicken over the layer of rice.Scatter the diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and sliced kalamata olives on top of the chicken.In a separate bowl, combine the tzatziki sauce with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper, then spread this mixture evenly over the ingredients.Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously on top of the casserole.Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 45 minutes.After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden.Allow the casserole to cool briefly before serving and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.Serve and enjoy the delightful Mediterranean dish with your family and friends. Nutrition Serving: 1portionCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance; just increase baking time by 10-15 minutes if cooking straight from the fridge. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
