Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki

This hearty Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole brings Mediterranean magic to your dinner table with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy tzatziki creates a comforting yet vibrant meal that has become my go-to for effortless entertaining.

I first created this dish when hosting an impromptu dinner party with no time to shop. The combination was such a hit that my brother-in-law who typically avoids anything involving yogurt asked for seconds and the recipe to take home.

Ingredients

• Long-grain white rice: Absorbs flavors beautifully while maintaining perfect texture. Look for quality brands that specify "long-grain" for best results.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Provides moisture and flavor without making the dish too salty. Homemade is wonderful but boxed works perfectly.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces ensure even cooking. Choose plump pieces that feel firm to the touch.
• Garlic powder: Provides consistent flavor throughout the dish. Fresh garlic can burn during the long baking time.
• Onion powder: Adds depth without the texture of chopped onions. Make sure yours is fresh and not clumped.
• Dried oregano: Brings authentic Mediterranean flavor. Crush it between your fingers before adding to release more oils.
• Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and beautiful color. Sweet Hungarian variety works wonderfully here.
• Tzatziki sauce: Serves as the creamy binder that brings everything together. Store-bought saves time but homemade elevates the dish.
• Feta cheese: Adds tangy richness. Traditional Greek feta made from sheep's milk offers the most authentic flavor.
• Fresh herbs: Like parsley or dill brighten the finished dish. Choose whichever looks freshest at your store.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Set your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish until it has a thin even coating. Proper preheating ensures the rice cooks evenly from the start.

Create the Foundation:

Spread one cup of uncooked rice in an even layer across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour the chicken broth slowly over the rice making sure every grain is submerged. This careful distribution ensures perfectly cooked rice with no crunchy spots.

Layer the Protein:

Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer on top of the moistened rice. Distribute them evenly to ensure consistent cooking throughout the casserole. Each piece should have space to cook properly.

Season with Precision:

Sprinkle the garlic powder onion powder oregano and paprika uniformly over the chicken. Use your fingers to ensure even distribution of the seasonings reaching all pieces of chicken. This step creates the Mediterranean flavor profile that makes this dish special.

Add the Creamy Element:

Dollop the tzatziki sauce generously over the seasoned chicken. Using the back of a spoon gently spread it to create a consistent layer that will melt into a creamy sauce during baking. Ensure the edges are not neglected as these tend to dry out first.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil pressing it around the edges to seal in moisture. Bake for 35 minutes then check for doneness. The rice should be tender and the chicken should register 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. If needed remove the foil and bake 5-10 minutes longer to absorb any excess liquid.

Finish with Flair:

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes uncovered. This allows the sauce to settle and thicken slightly. Sprinkle with crumbled feta fresh herbs and cucumber slices if using. The residual heat will slightly melt the feta creating pockets of creamy goodness.

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You Must Know

The tzatziki sauce is truly the star of this recipe. I discovered this accidental combination when trying to use up leftover tzatziki from a previous meal. My daughter who typically inspects every bite of food for "green things" actually asked for seconds which in our household is the equivalent of earning a Michelin star.

Make-Ahead Options

This casserole works beautifully as a make-ahead meal. You can assemble everything up to the baking step cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook simply add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time since you'll be starting with cold ingredients. The flavors actually develop wonderfully during this rest time making it perfect for entertaining when you want to prepare ahead.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of this casserole lies in its flexibility. For a more substantial meal add a layer of frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry before the chicken. You could also incorporate halved cherry tomatoes artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for additional Mediterranean flair. For those who enjoy heat a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper adds a wonderful dimension without overwhelming the delicate tzatziki flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

While this casserole stands beautifully on its own I love serving it with a simple Greek salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Warm pita bread makes an excellent accompaniment for scooping up the creamy sauce. For a more elaborate spread consider adding olives hummus and roasted vegetables to create a Mediterranean feast that will transport your dinner guests straight to the Greek isles.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers maintain their delicious flavor and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice will continue to absorb flavors making day-two portions sometimes even better than the original. When reheating add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture and cover with a damp paper towel if microwaving. For best results reheat in a 325°F oven covered with foil until warmed through about 15-20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I ensure the rice cooks evenly?

Make sure the rice is fully submerged in chicken broth before baking to ensure even cooking.

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ What’s the best way to cut the chicken?

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and ease of serving.

→ Can I make tzatziki sauce at home?

Absolutely! Combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill for a quick homemade tzatziki.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.