Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

13 janvier 2026 par Chef Hanna Zest

Introduction

This dump and bake casserole turns cooked chicken and simple pantry staples into a bright Mediterranean style weeknight meal in under an hour. It is hands off once assembled, so you can get dinner on the table while finishing other tasks. Use leftover rotisserie or quickly shredded chicken to save time. If you love easy casseroles try a similar one like French onion chicken orzo casserole for more no-fuss dinners.

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is all about layering confident flavors with minimal effort. Uncooked rice bakes slowly in chicken broth, absorbing juices and tzatziki so everything finishes tender and flavored. Using pre-cooked chicken shortens active time and keeps the bake moist. Tzatziki brings creaminess and cucumber freshness without extra chopping or mixing at the end. Feta adds salty tang that browns slightly under a final uncover bake for contrast. For speedy swaps and inspiration, check a quick stir fry style like 20 minute Mongolian chicken to vary your weeknight rotation.

Flavor and Texture

The dinner balances cool tzatziki cream with warm, steaming rice and savory chicken. Cucumbers and tomatoes stay relatively crisp after baking so the casserole keeps a lively bite. Kalamata olives and feta inject briny pop that plays well against oregano and garlic powder. The uncovered finish melts and lightly browns the feta for a pleasant texture shift. Overall this dish feels fresh yet comforting, making it versatile for family meals or meal prep.

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

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.
In the prepared dish, add the uncooked rice and spread it evenly across the bottom.
Pour the chicken broth over the rice, ensuring that the rice is submerged.
Evenly distribute the cooked chicken over the rice.
Scatter the diced cucumber, chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and sliced Kalamata olives on top of the chicken layer.
In a bowl, mix the tzatziki sauce with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Spread the tzatziki sauce mixture evenly over the vegetables and chicken, ensuring everything is covered.
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese across the top.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is heated through.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the feta cheese is slightly golden.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Quick Tips and Shortcuts

Use rotisserie chicken to shave prep time down to minutes. Rinse rice briefly if you want less stickiness, but measured liquid works fine straight into the dish. If you only have brown rice, increase baking time and liquid accordingly and test for doneness. Swap Greek yogurt mixed with dill for store bought tzatziki if you prefer homemade. To make assembly even faster, chop veggies while the oven preheats.

Storage and Meal Prep

Cool the casserole to room temperature before covering and refrigerating in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat single portions in the microwave, or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. For freezing, wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep fresh parsley separate and add after reheating for the brightest finish.

Short Closing Note

This casserole gives weeknight efficiency without sacrificing Mediterranean brightness. It is forgiving, adaptable, and ideal for busy cooks who want a hearty fresh tasting meal.

Conclusion

For another take on this flavor profile and plating ideas, see the original inspiration at Chicken Tzatziki Casserole – Bad Batch Baking.

FAQ

Can this be made in under 30 minutes?

Yes, the recipe is designed to be quick and efficient.

Does it work for meal prep?

Most versions store well for one to three days.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes, simple swaps can be made for convenience or dietary needs.