Name: Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs diced chicken breast; 1.5 cups basmati rice or long grain (uncooked); 3 cups chicken stock; 1 large zucchini (grated or halved then thinly sliced); 1/2 yellow onion (diced); 1 pint grape tomatoes (left whole); 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (plus more for topping); 6-8 lemon wedges (from 1 lemon halved and sliced); 2 tablespoons Greek seasoning; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon seasoning salt; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste); 1 medium red onion (thinly sliced); 3/4 cup red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 2 teaspoons sugar; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; Additional crumbled feta cheese for topping; Toom garlic dip; Tzatziki sauce (store-bought); Fresh parsley, chopped; Pita bread (for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 12 reviews

If you are searching for a dish that marries vibrant Mediterranean flavors with comforting ease, this Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender, juicy chicken nestled with aromatic basmati rice, fresh zucchini, and sweet grape tomatoes, all kissed by a fragrant blend of Greek seasonings and a hint of smokiness from paprika. The crowning glory is the tangy, creamy tzatziki sauce and pickled red onions that bring brightness and freshness to every bite. It’s a wholesome casserole that’s both satisfying and refreshingly different—perfect for sharing or savoring as a special dinner at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In a white oval dish, small pieces of cooked seasoned chicken are spread unevenly, showing a mix of light brown and reddish color with visible herbs and spices speckled on each piece, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh ingredients form the backbone of this Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe, each chosen to build layers of flavor and texture without any fuss. From the tender chicken breasts to the fragrant lemon wedges, every element plays a crucial role. Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll gather before you start cooking.

1.5 lbs diced chicken breast: The star protein, offering juicy, tender bites that soak up all those glorious seasonings.
1 large zucchini (grated or thinly sliced): Adds a mild sweetness and pleasant texture contrast while keeping the casserole light and fresh.
1/2 yellow onion (diced): Provides foundational savory depth and natural sweetness as it cooks down.
1 pint grape tomatoes (left whole): Burst with juicy sweetness that brightens the entire casserole.
1.5 cups basmati rice or long grain (uncooked): Soaks up all the juices, ensuring that every bite is flavorful and satisfying.
1 lemon (halved and sliced into wedges): Gives a vital zesty brightness that lifts the dish beautifully.
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (plus more for topping): Brings creaminess and a salty tang to complement the chicken and veggies.
3 cups chicken stock: Infuses the rice and chicken with rich, savory flavor throughout baking.
2 tablespoons Greek seasoning: This blend of herbs and spices delivers authentic Mediterranean flavor (a must for this recipe).
2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth that gives the casserole character.
1 teaspoon seasoning salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
1/2 teaspoon turmeric: Offers a gentle earthiness and gorgeous warm color.
1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a subtle kick—adjust to your heat preference.
1 medium red onion (thinly sliced): For pickling—these tangy onions add a pop of color and sharp brightness on top.
3/4 cup red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar: Essential for quick-pickling the red onions that contrast beautifully with the creamy tzatziki.
2 teaspoons sugar: Balances the acidity in the pickling liquid perfectly.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Used in multiple stages to season ingredients appropriately.
Tzatziki sauce: The signature cooling dip that ties the whole dish together with fresh cucumber, garlic, and dill flavors.
Toom garlic dip: Optional, but adds an extra garlicky punch if you want to get fancy.
Fresh parsley: A bright herbaceous note for garnish that makes the dish look as delicious as it tastes.
Pita bread: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of the casserole and tzatziki goodness.

How to Make Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Seasonings

Start by combining the Greek seasoning, smoked paprika, seasoning salt, turmeric, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. This flavorful mix will infuse your chicken and rice with authentic Mediterranean warmth. Preparing this in advance makes assembling the casserole a breeze.

Step 2: Pickle the Red Onions

To add that indispensable tangy crunch, whisk together sugar, kosher salt, and your choice of red wine or apple cider vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then stir in the thinly sliced red onions, pushing them down to fully submerge. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the rest of the dish. These pickled onions transform the casserole from simple to extraordinary.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the diced chicken breast in a 9×13 casserole dish and toss with half of your seasoning mix, plus a tablespoon of Greek seasoning. Spread the chicken evenly across the bottom. Layer the uncooked basmati rice, followed by the grated or sliced zucchini, and whole grape tomatoes. In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk the remaining seasoning blend into the chicken stock until well combined, then pour evenly over everything. Finish this step by sprinkling crumbled feta cheese on top and arranging lemon wedges evenly across the casserole.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover your dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid has been fully absorbed and the rice is tender. This step is key as it ensures that every bite is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. Feel free to test the rice before pulling it out.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve

Once out of the oven, gently fluff the casserole to mix the ingredients evenly, and remove the cooked lemon wedges if you prefer. Taste and add salt or pepper if needed. Generously top with more crumbled feta cheese, the tangy pickled red onions, fresh parsley, additional lemon wedges, generous dollops of creamy tzatziki sauce, and the optional toom garlic dip for an extra kick. Serve alongside warm pita bread to scoop up every delicious bite.

How to Serve Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe

The dish is served on a white plate on a white marbled surface and shows three lemon slices arranged on the edge. The base is yellow rice mixed with pieces of cooked chicken that have a slight orange seasoning. Scattered over the rice are small chunks of green zucchini, whole red cherry tomatoes, thin rings of purple onion, and small bits of white cheese. A dollop of white sauce with green herbs is placed on top of the rice. On the right side of the plate, there are two pieces of folded flatbread with a light brown toasted surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The garnishes are what truly elevate this dish from comforting to show-stopping. Fresh parsley provides a burst of green freshness, while crumbled feta adds that salty creaminess you crave. Don’t skip the tzatziki sauce—it cuts through the richness with cucumber-cooling magic, and the pickled red onions add an irresistible tangy crunch that will make your taste buds sing.

Side Dishes

Serve your chicken casserole with warm, fluffy pita bread, perfect for scooping up every savory morsel. A simple Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and tomatoes pairs beautifully if you want to add some crispness. For a heartier meal, roasted lemon potatoes or grilled veggies enhance the Mediterranean vibes and fill out the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress your guests, serve the casserole in individual mini casseroles or ramekins and finish each with a dollop of tzatziki and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Alternatively, layer the casserole over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter presentation that still delivers all the bold flavors. You can also serve with pita wedges fanned out on the side for easy dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this casserole later, freeze it before baking in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake covered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through and bubbling, about 30 to 40 minutes. Adding fresh toppings after reheating brings back that fresh-made charm.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit covered with foil to keep moisture intact. For a quicker option, use the microwave but add a splash of water or broth to keep rice from drying out. Don’t forget to refresh with tzatziki and garnishes for the full experience!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! While basmati rice is preferred for its aroma and texture, long grain white rice works wonderfully as well. Just keep an eye on liquid absorption and cooking times as different rice varieties vary.

Is this casserole spicy?

The spice level is adjustable! The cayenne pepper adds mild heat, but you can leave it out altogether or increase it slightly depending on your taste. The other seasonings keep the flavors rich and savory without overwhelming heat.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, or chickpeas. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to maintain the savory base flavors.

What brand of tzatziki do you recommend?

For convenience and authentic flavor, Opaa! tzatziki sauce is my favorite store-bought option. It has a fresh taste with the right balance of garlic and cucumber, making it an easy way to add that signature cooling element.

How long does it take to pickle the onions?

The quick pickle only takes about 45 seconds to prepare and a minimum of 30 minutes to chill before serving, but letting them sit overnight intensifies the flavor beautifully. They add a sharp, tangy contrast that brightens the whole dish.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Tzatziki Casserole Recipe is a wonderful way to bring the bright, fresh flavors of Greek cuisine into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum reward. It’s truly a celebration of spices, textures, and vibrant ingredients packed into one cozy dish that will quickly become a staple. I can’t wait for you to try it and savor all those mouthwatering moments with loved ones. Happy cooking!