Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

This dump-and-bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a vibrant, one-pan meal packed with Mediterranean flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. With tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh toppings like tzatziki and pickled onions, this casserole offers a delightful blend of taste and convenience that will impress everyone at the table.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Casserole:
• Paprika Seasoning Mixture:
• Pickled Red Onions:
• Toppings & Serving:
• How to Make Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
• Step 1: Make the Seasoning Mix
• Step 2: Pickle the Red Onions
• Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
• Step 4: Bake the Casserole
• Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve
• How to Serve Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
• With Fresh Pita Bread
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by a Light Salad
• Drizzled with Extra Tzatziki
• Served in Individual Portions
• Paired with Roasted Vegetables
• How to Perfect Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
• Reheating Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Chicken Tzatziki Casserole ahead of time?
• What can I substitute for chicken?
• How do I customize my Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?
• Can I use leftover chicken?
• What sides go well with this casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply dump the ingredients into one pan, mix, and let the oven do the work!
• Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and creamy tzatziki makes each bite burst with flavor.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion—serve it for a weeknight dinner or impress guests at a casual gathering.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with lean protein and veggies, this recipe fits well into a balanced diet.
• Customizable Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your family’s tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole successfully, having the right tools is essential. Below are some must-have kitchen items to make this process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch casserole dish: This size is ideal for even cooking and easy serving of the casserole.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for quickly dissolving sugar in vinegar when making pickled onions.
• Whisk: Ensures that the seasoning mixture blends well with the chicken stock for consistent flavor throughout.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1.5 lbs diced chicken breast
• 1 large zucchini, grated or halved and thinly sliced
• ½ yellow onion, diced
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, left whole
• 1½ cups basmati or long-grain rice (uncooked)
• 1 lemon, halved and sliced into wedges
• ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (plus more for topping)
• 3 cups chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons Greek seasoning (see notes)

Paprika Seasoning Mixture:

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)

Pickled Red Onions:

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

Toppings & Serving:

• Additional feta cheese
• Pickled red onions
• Tzatziki sauce (store-bought, such as Opaa!)
• Toom garlic dip
• Fresh parsley
• Warm pita bread

PIN THIS!

How to Make Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

Step 1: Make the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, seasoning salt, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.

Step 2: Pickle the Red Onions

In a heat-safe bowl:
1. Combine vinegar, sugar, and salt.
2. Microwave for 45 seconds or until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add the thinly sliced red onions ensuring they are fully submerged.
4. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9×13-inch casserole dish:
1. Add the diced chicken.
2. Sprinkle with half of the paprika mixture and 1 heaping tablespoon of Greek seasoning.
3. Toss to coat and spread evenly across the dish.
4. Evenly sprinkle rice over the chicken.
5. Add zucchini and grape tomatoes.
6. In a large measuring cup or bowl, whisk together chicken stock, remaining paprika mixture, and 1 tablespoon of Greek seasoning.
7. Pour seasoned chicken stock over the casserole.
8. Sprinkle ¼ cup of feta cheese on top and arrange lemon wedges over the dish.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover casserole tightly with foil:
1. Bake for 40 minutes.
2. Remove foil; bake an additional 10-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed (check by stirring in spots).

Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve

Fluff casserole to distribute ingredients:
1. Remove cooked lemons if desired.
2. Taste; adjust with additional salt/pepper if needed.
3. Top with extra feta cheese, pickled red onions, parsley, tzatziki sauce, and garlic dip.
4. Serve warm with pita bread.

Now you have everything you need to create a delightful Chicken Tzatziki Casserole that will surely be a hit! Enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

Serving Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is all about enhancing its Mediterranean flavors and making it a complete meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Pita Bread

• Fresh pita bread pairs perfectly with the casserole, allowing you to scoop up chicken, rice, and tzatziki in each bite.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill over the casserole adds a burst of color and enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

Accompanied by a Light Salad

• A simple green salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives complements the casserole and provides a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Extra Tzatziki

• For tzatziki lovers, adding a bit more sauce on top before serving can amplify the creamy goodness and freshness.

Served in Individual Portions

• Presenting the casserole in individual ramekins makes for an elegant touch at dinner parties or special occasions.

Paired with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus add texture and nutrition to your meal when served alongside the casserole.

How to Perfect Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

To ensure your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture in your casserole.
• Don’t Skip the Pickling: Pickling the red onions adds a tangy crunch that balances well with the creamy tzatziki. It’s worth the extra time!
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the spices based on your taste preferences. More cayenne can add heat; less Greek seasoning will keep it milder.
• Check Rice Doneness: Each oven is different; check if the rice is tender before removing from the oven. If not, cover and bake for a few more minutes.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps ingredients meld together for improved flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding olives or roasted garlic as toppings for an extra layer of Mediterranean flair.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Greek Salad
   A classic salad featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil brings freshness to your plate.
2. Roasted Eggplant
   Sliced eggplant roasted until golden adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the casserole’s spices.
3. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
   Quinoa mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and veggies offers a hearty yet light side that’s packed with nutrients.
4. Tzatziki & Veggie Platter
   Serve additional tzatziki alongside sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers for dipping—a perfect crunchy companion!
5. Lemon Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with lemon zest complements the main dish while echoing its Mediterranean theme.
6. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
   These vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs provide an authentic touch of Mediterranean cuisine alongside your casserole.
7. Hummus & Pita Chips
   Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips makes for an inviting appetizer before delving into the main course.
8. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds elegance and crunch while balancing out the richness of the casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Always check that it’s just cooked through for the best texture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season your ingredients can lead to a bland casserole. Make sure to use enough Greek seasoning and spices for vibrant flavor.
• Not Measuring Rice Properly: Using too much or too little rice affects the dish’s consistency. Always measure accurately to achieve the perfect texture.
• Ignoring the Pickling Step: Skipping pickling the onions means missing out on that tangy crunch. Take the time to pickle them for added flavor depth.
• Forgetting to Fluff Before Serving: Serving without fluffing can lead to uneven distribution of ingredients. Always fluff the casserole before serving for a better presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• • Allow the casserole to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

• • Freeze in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• • Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of chicken stock if needed.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Tzatziki Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What can I substitute for chicken?

For a vegetarian option, try using chickpeas or a mix of your favorite vegetables instead of chicken.

How do I customize my Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or try different cheeses like goat cheese instead of feta.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Use shredded or diced leftover chicken to save time when making your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve it with warm pita bread and a garden salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!

---