Greek Chicken Casserole

Ready in one pan and packed with flavors, this Greek Chicken Casserole is your go-to dish for any occasion. With its hearty ingredients and Mediterranean flair, it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this casserole combines convenience with a burst of taste that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious: Each serving provides over 30 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber, keeping you full and satisfied.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or add more spices to suit your taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one baking dish.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers can be stored for days, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your Greek chicken casserole a breeze to prepare.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9 x 13 inches)
• Mixing bowl
• Forks (for shredding chicken)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Essential for even cooking and easy serving.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients thoroughly before baking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements for balanced flavors.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Greek chicken casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups orzo, uncooked
• 1 lb. cooked chicken, shredded (about 4 cups, roughly 3 chicken breasts or 6 chicken thighs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, packed, diced
• 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled, plus more to serve
• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 5 cups chicken broth, or water
• Fresh parsley, to serve

How to Make Greek Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken (if needed)

If you don’t have cooked chicken:
1. Bake the chicken breasts or thighs in the oven for about 25 minutes.
2. Once cooked, place on a cutting board.
3. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-size pieces.

Step 3: Start the Base

In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish:
1. Add the diced onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and stir until well coated.
3. Transfer to the oven for about 5 minutes while preparing other ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Remove the baking dish from the oven and:
1. Add the uncooked orzo, minced garlic, diced sundried tomatoes, chopped spinach, kalamata olives (if using), oregano, olive oil, and salt.
2. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Cheese

To the mixture in your baking dish:
1. Add the shredded chicken.
2. Mix in feta cheese along with lemon juice and lemon zest.
3. Give it another good stir until combined.

Step 6: Pour in Liquid

Pour in the chicken broth:
1. Stir everything again until well incorporated.
2. Ensure that all ingredients are mostly submerged in liquid.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil:
1. Place it back in the oven for about 15 minutes.

Step 8: Final Bake Uncovered

After 15 minutes:
1. Remove from oven and take off the foil.
2. Stir everything well again.
3. Return to oven uncovered for another final bake of 15–20 minutes until orzo is cooked and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 9: Serve It Up!

Once done:
1. Remove from oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with extra feta cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Greek Chicken Casserole! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days or freeze them for later enjoyment up to three months!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Casserole

This Greek chicken casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Salad

• A mixed greens salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole beautifully.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works great.

Tzatziki Sauce

• A side of tzatziki adds a refreshing element. This yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic balances the savory flavors of the casserole.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant bring extra color and nutrients to your plate. Drizzle with olive oil before grilling for added flavor.

Lemon Wedges

• Squeeze fresh lemon over each serving for an extra zest. This brightens up the dish and enhances the Mediterranean flavors.

Extra Feta Cheese

• Sprinkle additional crumbled feta on top just before serving. It adds creaminess and a salty kick that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Casserole

To ensure your Greek chicken casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips. They will help you achieve a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

• Use cooked chicken – Shredded rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken saves time and infuses flavor into the dish.
• Don’t skip the resting time – Allowing the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together.
• Adjust liquid as needed – Depending on your orzo’s absorption rate, you might need more broth or water; keep an eye on it while baking.
• Experiment with veggies – Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or artichokes for added nutrition and flavor.
• Cover tightly – When covering with foil, ensure it’s tight to keep moisture in while baking.
• Add herbs at different stages – For more depth of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Casserole

To round out your meal, consider these delicious side dishes that complement the flavors of Greek chicken casserole perfectly. They add variety and enhance your dining experience.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting balance to this hearty casserole.
2. Roasted Asparagus – Lightly seasoned and roasted asparagus brings a delightful crunch and freshness to your table.
3. Mediterranean Couscous Salad – Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs, olives, and veggies offers a refreshing contrast.
4. Quinoa Tabbouleh – A vibrant salad packed with parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice creates a healthy side option.
5. Steamed Broccoli – Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overwhelming the main dish.
6. Pita Chips – Crunchy pita chips are perfect for scooping up leftover casserole or dips alongside your meal.
7. Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles make for a low-carb alternative that pairs wonderfully with the casserole’s flavors.
8. Cucumber Tomato Salad – A cool cucumber tomato salad dressed in olive oil offers refreshing bites between servings of warm casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Greek chicken casserole, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure your casserole cooks evenly.
• Overcooking the Chicken: If using raw chicken, overcooking it can make it dry. Bake just until cooked through and shred it for the casserole.
• Neglecting the Stirring Step: Forgetting to stir before baking can cause uneven distribution of ingredients. Make sure to mix everything well for an even flavor.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients can lower the temperature of your dish, affecting cooking time. Allow ingredients like chicken and broth to reach room temperature first.
• Ignoring Liquid Absorption: If your orzo looks dry after baking, it may need more liquid. Always check and add a splash of broth if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Greek Chicken Casserole

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easy reheating later.

Reheating Greek Chicken Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and cover with foil, heating until warm throughout (about 20-25 minutes).
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of broth if needed, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious Greek chicken casserole.

Can I use different types of cheese in Greek Chicken Casserole?

You can substitute feta with other cheeses like goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Greek Chicken Casserole?

Feel free to add more vegetables or substitute with whole grain pasta for added nutrition and variety.

Is Greek Chicken Casserole healthy?

Yes, this casserole is packed with protein and fiber while being low in calories, making it a nutritious meal option.

Can I prepare Greek Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it before baking for an easy weeknight dinner.

What should I serve with Greek Chicken Casserole?

A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables pairs perfectly with this flavorful dish!

Final Thoughts

This Greek chicken casserole is not only hearty and satisfying but also versatile enough to customize based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep option, this recipe checks all the boxes. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with different flavors!