Greek Chicken Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Greek Chicken Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a dish. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful orzo, and vibrant veggies, this casserole comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish shines in any setting.

What makes this Greek Chicken Casserole so special? It’s all about the balance of flavors and nutrients. With over 30 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber per serving, you can feel good about serving it to your loved ones. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in just one baking dish.
• Family-friendly flair: Even picky eaters will be reaching for seconds.
• Make-ahead magic: Prep it in advance for those busy days when time is tight.
• Bursting with flavor: The combination of feta, lemon, and spinach gives this casserole a delightful Mediterranean flair.
• Versatile ingredient options: Feel free to tweak it based on what you have at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you need to create your delicious Greek Chicken Casserole:

For the Casserole

• 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 and 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the grain: If you’re feeling adventurous, try quinoa instead of orzo!
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.

How to Make Greek Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, no worries! Just bake some chicken breasts or thighs for about 25 minutes until they’re cooked through. Shredding the chicken into bite-sized pieces makes it easier to mix into the casserole.

Step 2: Start with Onions

In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, add your diced onion along with olive oil. Stir until well coated and pop it into the oven for about five minutes. This step helps soften the onions and brings out their natural sweetness before mixing everything else together.

Step 3: Mix in the Goodies

Remove the baking dish from the oven and add in your uncooked orzo, minced garlic, diced sundried tomatoes, chopped spinach, kalamata olives (if using), oregano, extra olive oil, and salt. Give it all a good stir—this is where those mouthwatering Mediterranean flavors start coming together!

Step 4: Combine Chicken & Cheese

Next, add your shredded chicken along with crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, and zest. Stir again until everything is well mixed. The lemon adds brightness while the feta brings creaminess that balances out the dish beautifully.

Step 5: Add Broth & Bake

Pour in your broth and give everything one last stir until everything is mostly submerged in liquid. Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. This steaming process helps cook the orzo perfectly.

Step 6: Final Bake & Serve!

After removing the foil from the baking dish, give it another good stir before putting it back into the oven uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. This allows any excess liquid to evaporate while finishing off that lovely golden-brown top! Once done cooking, let it rest for about five minutes before serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra feta on top.

And there you go! A delightful Greek Chicken Casserole that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Casserole

Making this Greek chicken casserole is a breeze, especially when you keep these handy tips in mind to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can make a big difference in flavor. Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen and use real lemons for zest and juice to enhance the overall taste.

• Don’t Overcook the Orzo: Since orzo continues to cook while the casserole bakes, it’s important not to overcook it initially. This ensures a perfectly tender texture that isn’t mushy.

• Experiment with Cheese: While feta cheese is traditional, feel free to mix it up! Try using a goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative if you want to change the flavor profile or cater to dietary preferences.

• Make it Ahead of Time: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This is perfect for busy weeknights and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Adjust the Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the oregano or add other spices such as thyme or rosemary based on your personal taste. This customization can make the dish uniquely yours!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Casserole

Serving this delightful casserole is as easy as pie, and it lends itself beautifully to creative presentations that are sure to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch and extra freshness that complements the flavors of the dish.
• Extra Feta Cheese: Crumbling additional feta on top just before serving not only enhances the flavor but also makes for an appealing presentation.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to add a splash of bright citrus flavor just before digging in!

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A light and refreshing salad made with cucumber, tomato, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and lemon juice makes an excellent companion.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots bring color and additional nutrients to your meal while balancing out the richness of the casserole.

• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce flavored with cucumber and garlic is perfect for dipping or drizzling over your casserole, adding a cool contrast.

• Pita Bread: Warm pita bread served alongside can be used for scooping up bites of casserole or mopping up any delicious juices left on your plate!

Enjoy your culinary journey with this hearty Greek chicken casserole – it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Greek chicken casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, hearty dish throughout the week without all the fuss. It stores beautifully, making it a convenient choice for busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up, as this helps maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Greek chicken casserole!

Can I use different pasta instead of orzo in the Greek Chicken Casserole?

Yes! While orzo adds a unique texture, you can substitute other small pasta shapes like couscous or quinoa. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make Greek Chicken Casserole more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, consider adding extra spices such as paprika or crushed red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like dill or basil can also elevate the dish significantly.

Can I make Greek Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be assembled ahead of time. Just bake when you’re ready to serve.

What side dishes pair well with Greek Chicken Casserole?

A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements this dish beautifully, as well as roasted vegetables or steamed greens for added nutrition.

How many servings does this Greek Chicken Casserole yield?

This recipe serves six generous portions, making it ideal for family dinners or leftovers!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Greek chicken casserole! It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings comfort and warmth to your dining table. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, this dish is sure to please everyone at home. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your own twists on this recipe—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!