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Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

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  • Author: Jessica

Description

Ever wished you could toss a few ingredients into a dish, pop it in the oven, and end up with a meal that tastes like a Mediterranean vacation? What if it took just 10 minutes of prep? Say hello to the Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole! This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy tzatziki sauce for a flavor-packed dinner that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • Long-Grain White Rice (1 cup): Forms the hearty base, soaking up the broth for fluffy, flavorful results.

  • Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (1½ cups): Cooks the rice and adds savory depth without being too salty.

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1½ pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces): Lean and tender, chicken absorbs the spices and tzatziki for a juicy texture.

  • Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, savory flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.

  • Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.

  • Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Gives that classic Mediterranean, herby vibe.

  • Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a mild smoky flavor and a touch of color.

  • Tzatziki Sauce (1 cup, store-bought or homemade): The star of the show, this creamy, tangy sauce keeps the chicken moist and infuses the dish with Greek flavor.

  • Cucumber (1 medium, sliced thinly, optional): Adds a refreshing crunch as a garnish.

  • Crumbled Feta Cheese (½ cup): Brings a salty, tangy kick to finish the dish.

  • Fresh Parsley or Dill (½ cup, chopped, for garnish): Adds vibrant color and a fresh, herby touch.

Substitutions and Variations

  • Rice: Use brown rice for extra fiber, but increase baking time to 50–60 minutes and add ¼ cup more broth.

  • Chicken: Swap with boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat or tofu for a vegetarian option.

  • Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or water with a bouillon cube in a pinch.

  • Tzatziki: Make your own with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill, or use a yogurt-based dip if tzatziki isn’t available.

  • Cheese: Try goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free version.

  • Herbs: Swap parsley or dill with fresh mint or basil for a different flavor.

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

    • Tip: A glass or ceramic dish works best for even cooking.

  2. Layer the Rice:

    • Spread 1 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.

    • Pour 1½ cups of low-sodium chicken broth over the rice, ensuring it’s fully submerged.

    • Tip: Stir the rice gently to make sure no grains stick together.

  3. Add the Chicken:

    • Scatter 1½ pounds of bite-sized chicken breast pieces evenly over the rice.

    • Sprinkle 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon paprika over the chicken for even seasoning.

    • Tip: Cut chicken into uniform pieces (about 1-inch cubes) for consistent cooking.

  4. Top with Tzatziki:

    • Spoon 1 cup of tzatziki sauce over the chicken, spreading it gently with the back of a spoon to coat the chicken evenly.

    • Tip: If the tzatziki is thick, thin it with a tablespoon of water or yogurt for easier spreading.

  5. Bake the Casserole:

    • Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and help the rice cook.

    • Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the rice is tender and fluffy.

    • If there’s excess liquid, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes.

    • Tip: Check the rice at 35 minutes—if it’s still crunchy, add a splash of broth and bake longer.

  6. Add Garnishes:

    • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to let the flavors settle.

    • Sprinkle ½ cup crumbled feta cheese, ½ cup chopped fresh parsley or dill, and thinly sliced cucumber (if using) over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.

    • Tip: Add garnishes just before serving to keep them crisp and colorful.

  7. Serve:

    • Scoop the casserole onto plates or into bowls, ensuring each serving has chicken, rice, and garnishes.

    • Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, tangy, Mediterranean flavors!

    • Tip: Pair with a side of pita bread, a Greek salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

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Find it online: https://myrecipes.memeswing.com/2025/05/dump-and-bake-chicken-tzatziki-casserole/

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