Introduction
Welcome to a deliciously simple and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights—our Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole! This dish brings together tender chicken, fluffy basmati rice, and the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine, all baked together in one pan. With a creamy tzatziki sauce and a sprinkle of fresh veggies on top, it’s a delightful combination that will make everyone at the table smile. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), filling your kitchen with that inviting warmth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, uncooked basmati rice, chicken broth, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well coated and combined.
- Transfer this aromatic mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, blend the Greek yogurt and tzatziki sauce together until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon the luscious tzatziki mixture over the chicken and rice, ensuring everything is beautifully coated.
- Top with the vibrant cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and generous crumbles of feta cheese for that delightful tang.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes, letting all those flavors mingle.
- After 40 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, the rice is tender, and everything looks golden and bubbly.
- Before serving, garnish your masterpiece with fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, feel free to marinate the chicken in the tzatziki sauce for a few hours before baking. The longer, the better! You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Cooking Techniques
This casserole is all about the dump-and-bake technique, where all ingredients are combined and baked in one dish. It’s an incredibly time-saving method! The key is to ensure that the rice is uncooked when added to the dish, as it will absorb the chicken broth while cooking, resulting in perfectly fluffy rice.
FAQ
Can I use other types of chicken?
Absolutely! Thighs or even rotisserie chicken can work well; just adjust your cooking time accordingly.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and freeze the unbaked dish. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Conclusion
This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a satisfying dinner. It’s easy to put together and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So gather your loved ones, savor each comforting bite, and enjoy the magical moments that good food brings to your table!