If you love meals that are fuss-free but bursting with Mediterranean flavors, then the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight wonder. This dish beautifully layers tender chicken, fluffy rice, and that creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce, all baked together to create a comforting casserole that tastes like you spent hours preparing it. Perfect for busy days or when you want a crowd-pleaser without the hassle, this recipe balances simple ingredients with incredible flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. While the list might look simple, each component contributes something special—whether it’s the fragrant herbs, the creamy tzatziki, or the hearty chicken and rice that soak up all those delicious spices.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The base of the casserole, absorbing the flavorful broth for a perfectly tender texture.
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Lean and tender, perfect for soaking up spices and sauce.
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce: This creamy, garlicky delight is the star that ties everything together—store-bought or homemade works beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mellow garlic flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and savory note to balance the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings that classic Mediterranean herb punch everyone adores.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Provides a gentle smokiness and vibrant color to the casserole.
How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Getting your oven heated to the right temperature is essential — set it to 375°F (190°C) so everything can cook evenly and develop those amazing flavors together.
Step 2: Start with the Rice and Broth
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the long-grain white rice with the chicken broth. Give it a gentle mix to ensure the rice is evenly distributed and ready to soak up all that liquid goodness while baking.
Step 3: Add and Season the Chicken
Scatter the bite-sized chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture. Then sprinkle on the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and paprika. Toss everything lightly to coat the chicken bites with those herbs and spices for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Pour on the Tzatziki Sauce
Spread the creamy tzatziki sauce evenly over the chicken and rice mixture. This rich and cooling layer will tenderize the chicken as it bakes and infuse the whole casserole with its signature tangy flavor.
Step 5: Bake Covered, Then Uncover
Cover the dish tightly with foil and let it bake for 45 minutes. Afterwards, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes to get a beautiful golden top that’s irresistible.
Step 6: Final Touches Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving a breeze. You’re now ready to move on to the garnishing and serving step.
How to Serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh toppings takes this casserole over the top. Think crisp cucumber slices for crunch, crumbled feta cheese for salty creaminess, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a burst of color and bright flavor.
Side Dishes
The beauty of the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe is that it can stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a vibrant Greek salad, warm pita bread, or even a simple lemony vegetable side that adds freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, or scoop it onto a bed of baby spinach to add a pop of green. Layering some pickled red onions on top can lend a tangy contrast that guests will love exploring bite after bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. This casserole actually tastes great warmed the next day, making for an easy and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to keep the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe for longer, it freezes beautifully. Just cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer for up to two months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm throughout—usually about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, just be sure to stir and cover to keep everything nice and moist.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice in this casserole?
While long-grain white rice works best for its texture and cooking time, you can experiment with basmati or jasmine rice. Just note that cooking times or liquid ratios may vary a bit.
Is store-bought tzatziki sauce good enough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought tzatziki can save time and still deliver great flavor. If you want an extra fresh touch, stirring in some chopped fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon can elevate it even more.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and richness to the dish. Just keep the cooking time the same and make sure the meat is cut into similar-sized pieces for even baking.
What can I do if I want this meal to be spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some cayenne powder with the other seasoning spices. You could also serve it with a drizzle of spicy harissa or hot sauce to kick it up at the table.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your chicken broth and tzatziki sauce contain no added gluten ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a busy day. It combines ease, flavor, and that little bit of Mediterranean magic that makes every bite satisfying. I hope you give it a try soon and enjoy sharing it just as much as I do!
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Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is an effortless, flavorful one-dish meal perfect for a cozy dinner. It features bite-sized chicken breasts baked with rice, a blend of Mediterranean spices, and creamy tzatziki sauce, resulting in a juicy, tender casserole that’s both comforting and delicious. The casserole is topped off with fresh cucumber slices, crumbled feta cheese, and herbs for added texture and freshness.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Garnishes
- Cucumber slices
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Combine Rice and Broth: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, mix together the long-grain white rice and low-sodium chicken broth gently to distribute the liquid evenly over the rice.
- Add Chicken and Seasonings: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and paprika. Toss lightly to coat the chicken with the spices without disturbing the rice layer too much.
- Top with Tzatziki Sauce: Pour the tzatziki sauce evenly over the chicken and rice. Spread it gently with a spatula to create a uniform layer that will keep the casserole moist and flavorful during baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap steam and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the broth and the chicken to cook through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with fresh cucumber slices, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh herbs such as dill or parsley to add brightness and texture. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can use homemade tzatziki sauce if preferred for a fresher taste.
- Adjust seasonings according to your taste; add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- If you don’t have low-sodium chicken broth, regular broth can be used but reduce added salt elsewhere.
- For a dairy-free version, use a tzatziki made with dairy-free yogurt and skip the feta garnish.
- Ensure chicken pieces are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
