Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole! This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet effortless. Imagine tender chicken mingling with creamy Greek yogurt and fresh cucumbers, all topped with a layer of gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s a dish that combines the essence of traditional Greek flavors with the heartwarming comfort of a cozy casserole. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, uncooked orzo, undrained diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir until everything is well mixed and the orzo is coated.
- Spread the chicken and orzo mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with the diced cucumber, chopped dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Spoon the tzatziki mixture over the chicken and orzo layer in the baking dish, spreading it out evenly to cover.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the tzatziki layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and a lovely golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let those flavors settle and the cheese firm up just a bit.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey or even a plant-based option for a lighter take!
- The fresh dill adds a unique twist, but you can also use dried dill if that’s what you have on hand.
- Serve with a fresh garden salad or warm pita bread on the side for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
This casserole utilizes a simple “dump and bake” technique, making it a wonderful choice for novice cooks or anyone looking to save time. Preparing the tzatziki sauce separately ensures that the fresh flavors maintain their integrity, and baking it covered helps keep the chicken juicy while allowing the cheese to melt perfectly. Don’t forget to let the dish rest after baking; this little step enhances the overall texture!
FAQ
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake it straight from the refrigerator.
- What can I substitute for orzo? If you don’t have orzo, small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini penne would work wonderfully!
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months.
Conclusion
This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is an absolute gem, combining rich flavors and comforting textures for a meal that satisfies everyone at the table. With minimal prep and cleanup, you can focus on what really matters: sharing delicious food and quality time with loved ones. Give this recipe a try and savor the warm, inviting flavors that will bring everyone back for seconds!