Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

This Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a delightful treat that combines Mediterranean flavors in a simple, dump-and-bake format. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish features juicy chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables, all harmonizing beautifully. The addition of tzatziki sauce and pickled onions adds a refreshing twist, making it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

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
• Fresh Herbs and Greens
• Toppings
• Accompaniments
• Additional Proteins
• 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 substitute chicken with another protein?
• How do I make Chicken Tzatziki Casserole healthier?
• What should I serve with Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?
• Can I prepare Chicken Tzatziki Casserole ahead of time?
• How do I customize my Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole involves minimal prep time and is perfect for busy evenings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of Greek seasoning and fresh ingredients creates a symphony of tastes.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one dish, reducing cleanup time.
• Versatile Options: Customize the casserole with your favorite veggies or substitute proteins as desired.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make this dish ahead of time for quick dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole effortlessly, having the right tools is essential. Below is a list of what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Medium mixing bowl
• Small bowl for seasoning
• Microwave-safe bowl (for pickling onions)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch casserole dish: This size ensures even cooking while providing ample space for all ingredients.
• Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for mixing seasonings and ensuring an even distribution before adding to the casserole.
• Small bowl for seasoning: Keeps your spices organized and allows easy mixing without cluttering your workspace.

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

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

1. In a heat-safe bowl, 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. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

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

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

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

Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve

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

This Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

Serving Chicken Tzatziki Casserole can be both fun and flavorful. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings that enhance its Mediterranean essence. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Fresh Herbs and Greens

• Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Mint: A sprinkle of mint leaves offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Toppings

• Tzatziki Sauce: Drizzle store-bought tzatziki on top for an extra creamy texture.
• Pickled Red Onions: These add tanginess and crunch, enhancing the overall flavor.

Accompaniments

• Warm Pita Bread: Serve with warm pita for dipping or scooping up the casserole.
• Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad complements the casserole’s richness with crisp veggies.

Additional Proteins

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: For those who want more protein, serve grilled chicken skewers alongside.
• Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas can provide a crunchy element that pairs well with the casserole.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

To achieve the best Chicken Tzatziki Casserole, keep these tips in mind for optimal results.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Always choose fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for better flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak the Greek seasoning to match your taste preferences.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
• Check Rice Doneness: Make sure the rice is fully cooked by checking several spots in the casserole.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add or swap out vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for variety.
• Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options.

1. Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta tossed in olive oil brings freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender complement the dish well.
3. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Light and zesty rice pilaf enhances the lemony notes in the casserole.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These traditional bites filled with rice and herbs make a great Mediterranean addition.
5. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with assorted veggies and pita chips for dipping; it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
6. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing parsley salad mixed with bulgur wheat adds a vibrant touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Tzatziki Casserole, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly.

• Incorrect Cooking Time: Not baking the casserole for the right amount of time can result in undercooked rice or overcooked chicken. Always check for doneness and adjust the cooking time as needed.

• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to use enough seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Make sure to follow the paprika mixture and Greek seasoning amounts closely for maximum flavor.

• Using Old Ingredients: Using stale or expired ingredients, especially herbs and spices, can ruin your casserole. Always check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.

• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for a few minutes so it can set properly.

• Overcrowding the Dish: Adding too many ingredients can affect cooking times and consistency. Stick to the recipe’s ingredient amounts for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.

• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Tzatziki Casserole that may help you:

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can use turkey or tofu as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein chosen.

How do I make Chicken Tzatziki Casserole healthier?

Consider using brown rice instead of white rice and reduce cheese or use low-fat options for fewer calories.

What should I serve with Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?

Serve with warm pita bread, fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.

Can I prepare Chicken Tzatziki Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and bake it when ready to eat. Just add extra baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I customize my Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach and experiment with different spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can adapt it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices based on your taste. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out and enjoy all the Mediterranean flavors!