Craving a comforting yet refreshing dish? Our Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is a perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors that will delight your taste buds. This delightful recipe brings together tender chicken, creamy tzatziki, and a harmonious blend of herbs and spices to create a meal that’s both satisfying and light.
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Growing up, my grandmother often made a similar dish whenever the family gathered for Sunday dinner. As delicious aromas filled the kitchen, we would eagerly await our servings. This recipe is my homage to those fond memories, with a little twist of my own. Sunday dinners have now become sessions of introducing the beloved Chicken Tzatziki Casserole to new generations in the family, savoring every bite just as we did back then.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly practical. Its creamy yet tangy profile makes it a winner at family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. The blend of traditional Greek flavors with an easy casserole format allows anyone to create something special without the fuss. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients Notes
The heart of this dish is its quality ingredients. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Greek yogurt is essential for the tzatziki; if needed, substitute with a dairy-free option for a lactose-intolerant-friendly version. For the chicken, both thighs and breasts work, but thighs tend to remain juicier.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and set aside while you prepare the tzatziki sauce.
Step 2
Prepare the tzatziki by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 3
In a large ovenproof skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until browned, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 4
Pour the tzatziki sauce into the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Nestle the chicken back into the sauce, making sure it’s well coated.
Step 5
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for around 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To freeze, place portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a low-carb version, substitute cauliflower rice for traditional rice. Add a twist by incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean flavor boost. Vegetarians can substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a protein-packed alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of freshly baked pita or crusty bread. Serve it alongside a simple Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s great for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish fully and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. This makes it perfect for planning ahead for parties or busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of fresh dill? If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried dill. Alternatively, consider adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Will Greek yogurt split when baked? While Greek yogurt can sometimes separate when heated, its use in a sauce, combined with other ingredients, helps to stabilize it. Stirring the tzatziki before adding it to the skillet will also help ensure a smooth consistency.
Hearty Chicken and Spinach Risotto Bake: A Family Favorite Dish!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups arborio rice uncooked
- 6 cups chicken broth low-sodium
- 5 oz baby spinach fresh
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large lemon zested and juiced
- 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 0.5 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.2.5 lbs chicken breast
- Add the chicken cubes to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.2.5 lbs chicken breast
- Stir in the arborio rice, and add the chicken broth, lemon zest, and juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat.2.5 lbs chicken breast
- Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Stir in the fresh spinach and top with Parmesan cheese.2.5 lbs chicken breast
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and cooked through.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Optionally, adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper.
