why make this recipe
Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a fantastic meal option that combines the rich flavors of Greek cuisine with the convenience of a one-dish dinner. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and is perfect for busy weeknights. The use of cooked chicken and rice means that it’s filling and satisfying, while the tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing twist. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
how to make Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup rice (long-grain or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the shredded chicken, rice, and chicken broth.
- In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the tzatziki mixture over the chicken and rice in the baking dish.
- Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.
how to serve Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
This casserole is best served warm. You can scoop it directly from the baking dish onto plates. It goes well with a side salad or some warm pita bread. For an extra touch, drizzle additional tzatziki sauce on top before serving.
how to store Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep.
- Try adding other veggies like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning in the tzatziki mixture to your taste for a more personalized flavor.
variation
For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas or a variety of roasted veggies. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a different texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be aware that it might take a bit longer to cook if it’s cold from the fridge.
3. What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
You can substitute regular plain yogurt or sour cream, but Greek yogurt gives a thicker and creamier consistency which works best for this recipe.
Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- 1 cup rice (long-grain or jasmine)
- 2 cups chicken broth
Tzatziki sauce ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt Substitute regular yogurt or sour cream if needed.
- 1 whole cucumber, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the shredded chicken, rice, and chicken broth.
- In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the tzatziki mixture over the chicken and rice in the baking dish.
- Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.