Print

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 11 reviews

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a simple, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired one-dish meal featuring tender chicken breast, fluffy long-grain rice cooked in savory chicken broth, and a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce that keeps the casserole moist. Topped with fresh cucumber slices, crumbled feta, and aromatic herbs, this dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth

Protein and Seasonings

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon paprika

Toppings and Garnishes

  • 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 medium cucumber, sliced thinly (optional, for garnish)
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ½ cup chopped fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole won’t stick and for easy cleanup.
  2. Assemble the Base: Spread the uncooked long-grain white rice evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, making sure the rice is fully submerged to guarantee uniform cooking.
  3. Add the Chicken: Scatter the bite-sized chicken breast pieces evenly over the rice layer. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and paprika evenly over the chicken to infuse Mediterranean flavors throughout the dish.
  4. Top with Tzatziki Sauce: Spoon the tzatziki sauce over the chicken and gently spread it using the back of a spoon. This creamy and tangy sauce helps keep the chicken juicy while adding a refreshing zest to the casserole.
  5. Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. This timeframe ensures the chicken is fully cooked and the rice becomes tender and fluffy. If there is excess liquid remaining when you remove the foil, bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to help the rice absorb it.
  6. Finish with Garnishes: Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley or dill over the top. Add the thin cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch and balance to the rich casserole.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the casserole warm, enjoying the harmonious combination of tender chicken, creamy tzatziki, and bright Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Notes

  • For a homemade tzatziki sauce, mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and dill.
  • Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as an alternative for juicier meat.
  • Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil during baking to prevent the chicken from drying out.
  • Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps the rice fully absorb any remaining liquid.
  • You can customize garnishes with fresh mint or chopped green onions for added flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, tzatziki casserole, Mediterranean chicken recipe, easy chicken bake, chicken and rice casserole

Find it online: https://recipeswithmia.com/dump-and-bake-chicken-tzatziki-casserole-recipe/