Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is my Mediterranean-inspired secret weapon for those busy weeknights when I need dinner on the table with minimal effort. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy tzatziki, and salty feta transforms into a mouthwatering meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic month when my family needed something beyond our usual rotation. The first time I served it, my husband asked if we could add it to our weekly menu. Three years later, it's still a favorite.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts these provide lean protein and absorb all the Mediterranean flavors beautifully. Look for pieces of similar thickness for even cooking
• Tzatziki sauce the star ingredient that keeps the chicken moist while adding creamy tanginess. Choose a thick, high quality version or make your own
• Bell pepper adds sweetness and color. Any color works, but I prefer red or orange for their sweeter flavor
• Red onion provides a subtle bite that mellows during baking. Select firm onions with tight, shiny skin
• Crumbled feta cheese contributes the essential salty, briny flavor that defines Mediterranean dishes. Traditional Greek feta made from sheep milk offers the best flavor
• Dried oregano authentic Greek flavor enhancer. Rub between your fingers before sprinkling to release more oils
• Salt and pepper seasoning basics that enhance all other flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F and thoroughly spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Make sure to cover the entire surface to prevent sticking, especially along the corners and sides.

Season and Arrange Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in your prepared baking dish, ensuring they don't overlap. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. The seasoning penetrates the meat during baking for flavor throughout.

Add Vegetables

Distribute the chopped bell peppers and red onions evenly over and around the chicken pieces. Spread them out so they cook evenly and caramelize slightly during baking. These vegetables will release moisture that helps keep the chicken juicy.

Pour the Tzatziki

Spoon the tzatziki sauce over the chicken and vegetables, making sure to cover everything. The sauce will thin slightly as it heats, creating a creamy bath for the chicken to cook in. This prevents dryness and infuses flavor.

Add Cheese and Herbs

Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly across the top of the casserole, followed by the dried oregano. The feta will brown slightly during the final uncovered baking phase, creating delicious crusty bits.

Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This initial covered period steams the ingredients. Then remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F and the top becomes golden. The uncovered time allows excess moisture to evaporate and flavors to concentrate.

Bookmark

The tzatziki sauce is truly the magic ingredient here. I discovered its transformative powers while experimenting with ways to keep chicken moist during baking. What started as a desperate attempt to use up leftover sauce from a Greek takeout night turned into our family's most requested dinner.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the chicken continues to absorb the tzatziki seasonings. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until heated through. Microwaving works in a pinch, but may make the chicken slightly tougher.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. Try adding halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, or baby spinach leaves for extra vegetables. For a heartier version, place the chicken mixture over a layer of cooked orzo pasta before baking. You can also substitute chicken thighs for the breasts if you prefer darker meat just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this casserole pairs beautifully with sides that complement Mediterranean flavors. Serve over a bed of fluffy couscous, alongside a simple Greek salad, or with warm pita bread for scooping up the creamy sauce. For a complete feast, add a side of lemony roasted potatoes and steamed green beans.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish. They may require slightly longer cooking time (5-10 minutes extra) but will provide more moisture and flavor. Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

→ How do I make homemade tzatziki sauce?

For homemade tzatziki, combine 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 grated cucumber (squeezed to remove excess water), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon fresh dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. When ready to cook, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since you'll be starting with cold ingredients.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This casserole pairs beautifully with Mediterranean sides like Greek salad, roasted potatoes, steamed rice, orzo pasta, or warm pita bread. A simple cucumber salad also complements the flavors nicely.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

While you can freeze this casserole after baking, the texture of the tzatziki sauce may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating thoroughly.

→ How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or spinach make excellent additions. Add firmer vegetables like zucchini with the bell peppers, and more delicate items like spinach during the final 10 minutes of baking.