Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

This dump-and-bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a vibrant, one-pan meal packed with Mediterranean flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables for a wholesome meal. The unique blend of spices and the addition of tzatziki and pickled onions brings a refreshing twist that will excite your taste buds.

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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
• Topped with Extra Tzatziki
• Accompanied by Pickled Red Onions
• 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 customize my Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?
• What should I serve with Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?
• How do I know when my casserole is done?
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
• What type of tzatziki sauce works best?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole requires minimal prep and uses just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful: The combination of Greek seasoning, smoked paprika, and tzatziki delivers a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite.
• Versatile: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or your dietary preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge for leftovers, perfect for lunch the next day.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the delicious flavors and textures in this casserole.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Chicken Tzatziki Casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Small mixing bowl
• Large measuring cup or bowl
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole Dish: A sturdy dish allows for even cooking and easy serving from oven to table.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining spices and pickling onions without mess.

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

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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, combine vinegar, sugar, and salt. Microwave for 45 seconds or until the sugar dissolves. Add the thinly sliced red onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. 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, add the diced chicken. Sprinkle with half of the paprika mixture and 1 heaping tablespoon of Greek seasoning. Toss to coat and spread evenly across the dish. Evenly sprinkle rice over the chicken. Add zucchini and grape tomatoes.

In a large measuring cup or bowl, whisk together chicken stock, remaining paprika mixture, and 1 tablespoon of Greek seasoning. Pour seasoned chicken stock over the casserole. Sprinkle with ¼ cup feta cheese on top and arrange lemon wedges over the dish.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Check by stirring in a few spots.

Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve

Fluff casserole to distribute ingredients evenly. Remove cooked lemons if desired. Taste; adjust with additional salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle extra feta cheese, pickled red onions, parsley, tzatziki sauce, and garlic dip on top. Serve warm with pita bread.

How to Serve Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

This Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its Mediterranean flavors. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Pita Bread

• Warm Pita: Serve the casserole with warm pita bread for scooping up each flavorful bite.
• Stuffed Pita: Stuff the casserole into pita pockets for a fun and portable meal option.

Topped with Extra Tzatziki

• Generous Drizzle: Add a generous drizzle of tzatziki sauce on top for added creaminess and flavor.
• Serve on the Side: Offer tzatziki on the side as a dip for those who enjoy more control over their portions.

Accompanied by Pickled Red Onions

• Zesty Addition: Top each serving with pickled red onions for a zesty crunch that complements the casserole’s richness.
• Colorful Garnish: Use pickled onions as a vibrant garnish to brighten the presentation of your dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

To ensure your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Pre-season chicken: Season your chicken ahead of time to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply before baking.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the overall taste and texture of your casserole.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust seasoning levels if needed, particularly salt and pepper.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

Pairing sides with your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole can transform your meal into an even more satisfying experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta drizzled with olive oil.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender add great flavor and color to your plate.
3. Quinoa Tabouli: A herby salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, and lemon juice for a nutritious boost.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs complement the soft textures of the casserole.
5. Hummus Platter: A selection of hummus varieties served with fresh veggies provides a healthy crunch.
6. Lemon Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with lemon zest enhances the Mediterranean flavors of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Chicken Tzatziki Casserole can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for the best results.

• Bold Seasoning Errors: Not measuring your spices accurately can lead to a bland or overly seasoned dish. Always use precise measurements for the paprika and Greek seasoning.
• Bold Neglecting Liquid Ratios: Skipping the correct amount of chicken stock may result in undercooked rice. Ensure you use 3 cups as stated for perfect texture.
• Bold Overcrowding Ingredients: Adding too many vegetables can make the casserole watery. Stick to the recommended zucchini and grape tomatoes for optimal flavor balance.
• Bold Forgetting to Cover: Failing to cover the casserole with foil during baking can dry out the chicken and rice. Make sure it’s tightly covered for the first part of cooking.
• Bold Skipping Taste Tests: Not tasting before serving could mean missing out on seasoning adjustments. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper at the end.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pan, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed, stirring occasionally until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?

You can easily customize this casserole by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference!

What should I serve with Chicken Tzatziki Casserole?

This casserole pairs well with warm pita bread, extra tzatziki sauce, or a fresh Mediterranean salad. These sides enhance the meal’s flavors beautifully.

How do I know when my casserole is done?

Check that the rice has absorbed all liquid and is tender. You can also ensure that chicken pieces are fully cooked through by cutting into one and confirming it’s no longer pink inside.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything in advance, cover it well, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

What type of tzatziki sauce works best?

Store-bought tzatziki sauce works great, but if you’re feeling adventurous, making your own will add an even fresher touch to your Chicken Tzatziki Casserole!

Final Thoughts

The Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is not only vibrant and packed with Mediterranean flavors but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or something special for guests, this dish fits perfectly. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or toppings to make it your own!