Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a weeknight hero that layers juicy cooked chicken, crisp Mediterranean veggies, and creamy tzatziki over rice for a cozy all-in-one bake. It comes together with pantry-friendly staples and minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy evenings or casual dinners with friends. Prep is mostly about chopping and mixing, then the oven does the rest while you relax. For another wholesome casserole idea with a bright sauce, try this healthy salsa verde chicken casserole that also simplifies dinner without sacrificing flavor.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This casserole is an excellent option when you want something that looks impressive but is genuinely easy. Uncooked rice bakes beneath the chicken and veggies, absorbing savory chicken broth and the cool tang of tzatziki for an effortless one-dish meal. It’s flexible if you’re working from leftovers or short on time, and the layered presentation feels bright and Mediterranean without fuss. The use of fresh cucumber, tomatoes, and Kalamata olives keeps the dish lively and colorful, great for family dinners or a simple potluck. If you need a lighter swap or carb-conscious version, you can compare ideas in this low-carb chicken casserole for inspiration.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a pleasing contrast of creamy and crisp textures: warm, tender rice and chicken meet the cool, herby tzatziki and crunchy cucumber. Feta adds salty tang and a slightly crumbly finish that browns beautifully in the oven. The olives and red onion bring pockets of savory depth, while grape tomatoes add bursts of sweet juiciness. Overall, the flavors balance bright acidity, herbal oregano, and comforting savory broth for a satisfying bite every time.

Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1 cup Greek-style tzatziki sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.
2. In the prepared dish, add the uncooked rice and spread it evenly across the bottom.
3. Pour the chicken broth over the rice, ensuring that the rice is submerged.
4. Evenly distribute the cooked chicken over the rice.
5. Scatter the diced cucumber, chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and sliced Kalamata olives on top of the chicken layer.
6. In a bowl, mix the tzatziki sauce with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
7. Spread the tzatziki sauce mixture evenly over the vegetables and chicken, ensuring everything is covered.
8. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese across the top.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is heated through.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the feta cheese is slightly golden.
11. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips for Best Results

Use even cuts for the cucumber and tomatoes so every spoonful has a balanced mix of textures. If your chicken is cold from the fridge, briefly warm it before assembling to help the bake heat evenly. Taste the tzatziki mixture before spreading so you can adjust salt and pepper to your liking; some tzatziki brands are saltier than others. If you prefer softer onions, give the red onion a quick soak in cold water for five minutes to mellow the bite. Finish with parsley just before serving so the herb stays bright and fresh.

Storage and Make Ahead

This casserole keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days, and portions reheat nicely in the microwave or oven. To freeze, bake as directed, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. For meal prep, assemble the dish without baking, cover, and store in the fridge for a day; bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if chilled. Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve moisture.

Final Thought

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is an easy, colorful meal that feels both comforting and fresh. With simple prep and flexible ingredients, it’s a dependable choice for busy nights or casual gatherings. Serve with a crisp salad and enjoy the blend of warm, creamy, and tangy flavors.

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