Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

A Mediterranean-Inspired Dinner for Busy Weeknights

Introduction

When life gets busy, dinner should be simple, comforting, and satisfying—without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is the perfect solution for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired meal with minimal effort. Designed for convenience, this recipe allows you to layer all the ingredients into one dish, bake it in the oven, and let time do the work.

Inspired by classic Greek flavors, this casserole combines tender cooked chicken, uncooked white rice, and fresh vegetables, all brought together with the creamy, tangy goodness of Greek-style tzatziki sauce. As it bakes, the rice absorbs the flavorful chicken broth and seasonings, creating a rich and satisfying base, while the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. The finishing touch of crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, savory bite that perfectly complements the dish.

What truly sets this casserole apart is its dump-and-bake simplicity. There’s no need to pre-cook the rice, make complicated sauces, or dirty multiple pans. Everything bakes together in one dish, making cleanup just as easy as preparation. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, beginner cooks, or anyone who wants a dependable dinner recipe that delivers consistent results.

With a total cooking time of just over an hour, this casserole is hearty enough to feed the whole family while still feeling fresh and vibrant. It’s comforting without being heavy, flavorful without being complicated, and versatile enough to fit into many meal plans. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual dinner, this dish is sure to impress with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

This recipe serves dinner and yields approximately 6 servings.

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
• ½ 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)

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil
• Oven

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup after baking.

Having all ingredients prepped before assembly—such as diced cucumber, chopped onion, and halved tomatoes—will make the process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Add the Rice and Broth

Pour the uncooked white rice directly into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom to create a uniform base.

Next, pour the chicken broth over the rice. Make sure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid. This step is essential, as the rice will absorb the broth during baking, becoming tender and flavorful without needing to be cooked separately.

Step 3: Layer the Chicken and Vegetables

Evenly distribute the cooked chicken over the rice layer. Because the chicken is already cooked, this step focuses on warming it through and allowing it to absorb the surrounding flavors.

Scatter the diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, halved grape tomatoes, and sliced Kalamata olives evenly over the chicken. This colorful combination adds freshness, texture, and a balance of savory and tangy flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Tzatziki Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the Greek-style tzatziki sauce, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until the seasonings are fully incorporated.

Carefully spread this mixture evenly over the vegetables and chicken, ensuring that everything is well covered. As the casserole bakes, the tzatziki sauce will melt into the dish, creating a creamy, herb-infused sauce that ties all the ingredients together.

Step 5: Add the Feta Cheese

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Feta adds a distinctive salty flavor and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the tzatziki and vegetables.

Step 6: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps steam inside the dish, allowing the rice to cook properly and absorb the liquid.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully heated through.

Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the feta cheese becomes slightly golden and the top looks set.

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This short resting time helps the casserole firm up and makes serving easier.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle the casserole with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Serve warm and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• Warm pita bread
• A simple green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Steamed green beans or zucchini

Its Mediterranean flavors make it versatile and easy to pair with light, fresh sides.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh the next day.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used, but it requires a longer cooking time and may need additional liquid. Be sure to adjust accordingly.

2. Is this casserole beginner-friendly?

Absolutely. This recipe is designed for beginners and requires no advanced cooking skills or techniques.

3. Can I substitute Greek yogurt for tzatziki sauce?

Yes. Greek yogurt can be used, but you may want to add extra cucumber and herbs to mimic the flavor of traditional tzatziki.

4. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes. This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and baked when ready.

5. How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?

The rice should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. If it’s still firm, cover and bake for a few extra minutes.

6. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes. It reheats well and maintains its flavor and texture, making it ideal for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

7. What makes this recipe “dump-and-bake”?

All ingredients are layered directly into the baking dish without pre-cooking, making preparation fast and cleanup minimal.

Conclusion

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is proof that delicious, flavorful meals don’t have to be complicated. With its vibrant Mediterranean ingredients, creamy tzatziki base, and comforting baked texture, it delivers a satisfying dinner that’s both practical and enjoyable.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or make-ahead meals, this casserole brings together convenience and bold flavor in one simple dish. By using everyday ingredients and a straightforward baking method, it ensures reliable results every time.

If you’re looking for a dependable recipe that balances ease, nutrition, and taste, this casserole deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.