Name: Creamy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 (16 ounce) container plain Greek yogurt; 1 cup shredded cucumber, squeezed dry; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Pita bread or naan, for serving (optional)

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Crisp, tangy, and unbelievably creamy, this baked chicken dish is a Mediterranean dream come true. The cool, refreshing tzatziki sauce, bursting with the bright flavors of cucumber, dill, and lemon, perfectly complements the tender, juicy chicken. The melted mozzarella adds a comforting richness that elevates the entire experience.

This recipe works wonders because it’s all about simplicity without sacrificing flavor. The “dump-and-bake” method means minimal prep time and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of Greek yogurt, cucumber, and lemon creates a naturally tenderizing marinade, ensuring that the chicken stays moist and flavorful throughout baking. Serve this Creamy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole any night of the week for a satisfying and effortless dinner.

Why you’ll love this Creamy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

It’s incredibly easy to make – just dump the ingredients and bake!
The Creamy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
The tzatziki sauce keeps the chicken incredibly moist and flavorful.
The cool, tangy flavors of cucumber, dill, and lemon create a refreshing and satisfying dish.
It’s a complete meal in one dish – chicken, sauce, and cheese.
Minimal cleanup makes this a stress-free dinner option.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Creamy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (16 ounce) container plain Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded cucumber, squeezed dry
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Pita bread or naan, for serving (optional)

Chicken tzatziki casserole makes every moment feel lush. Chef’s Tip: For a tangier flavor, use full-fat Greek yogurt. If you don’t have fresh dill, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of dried dill.

How to make Creamy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the oven and baking dish

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 2: Arrange the chicken

Place chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.

Step 3: Make the tzatziki sauce

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, shredded cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the tzatziki sauce.

Step 4: Cover the chicken with sauce

Pour the tzatziki sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 5: Add the cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the tzatziki sauce.

Step 6: Bake the casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Step 7: Rest and serve

Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve hot with pita bread or naan, if desired.

Chef’s Tip: Be sure to squeeze as much excess water as possible from the shredded cucumber, or the sauce will become too watery.

Tips for Success

Don’t overbake the chicken! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Squeezing the cucumber dry is crucial for preventing a watery sauce. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in a portion of the tzatziki sauce for at least 30 minutes before baking.
You can also add other vegetables to the casserole, such as sliced bell peppers or zucchini, for added nutrients and flavor. Check out this recipe for more cheesy baked recipes.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Casserole is delicious served with warm pita bread or naan for scooping up the sauce. It also pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf. For a similar easy chicken recipe, you might enjoy this Parmesan crusted chicken recipe.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this casserole?

Freezing is not recommended, as the Greek yogurt can change texture upon thawing.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like feta or provolone.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free pita or naan if needed.

In conclusion, this Creamy Dump-and-Bake chicken tzatziki casserole is a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful, easy, and satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken, tangy tzatziki sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese creates a truly irresistible dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Let me know in the comments how you like it!

Effortless Chicken Tzatziki Casserole (dump & Bake)