Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

Looking for a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor? The Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is your answer! This delightful casserole combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of fresh veggies, all smothered in light and creamy tzatziki sauce, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let the flavors meld together as it bakes into a hearty meal.

Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this casserole stands out not just for its delectable taste but also for its healthy elements. With vibrant cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and the briny goodness of Kalamata olives, it offers a balanced dish that your loved ones will absolutely adore. Serve this flavorful dish alongside a crisp salad, and you have a complete meal that will make everyone come back for seconds!

"This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked."

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

"Preparation is key for this delicious casserole filled with fresh ingredients."

Directions

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 fully submerged.
4. Evenly distribute the cooked chicken over the rice layer.
5. Scatter the diced cucumber, chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and sliced Kalamata olives on top.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the tzatziki sauce with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
7. Spread the tzatziki sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables, making sure everything is well-coated.
8. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese across the top.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender 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 & Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can swap out the chicken for rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free twist.
• Optional Variations: Add spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Consider using a different cheese like mozzarella for a creamier texture.
• Storage or Reheating Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 55 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty level: Easy

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