Greek Chicken Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy, warm meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, you’re in the right place! This Greek Chicken Casserole is a family favorite in my home, packed with flavors and nutrients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a casual dinner or prepping for a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress everyone.

What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of wholesome ingredients and comforting taste. With tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and creamy feta cheese all baked together in one pan, it’s like a Mediterranean vacation on your dinner plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes!
• Protein Packed: With over 30 grams of protein per serving, this casserole keeps you energized and satisfied.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it, and adults can’t resist that creamy feta—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
• Quick Prep: Ready in just 10 minutes of prep time, it’s an easy addition to any busy weeknight menu.
• Make Ahead: Perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers easily or make it ahead of time for quick meals later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Greek Chicken Casserole uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can find at any grocery store. It’s all about bringing fresh flavors to the table without complicated steps.

For the Casserole

• 2 cups orzo, uncooked
• 1 lb. cooked chicken, shredded (about 4 cups)
• 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

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or even turkey for a delicious twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or lentils for a hearty plant-based option.
• Cheese alternatives: If you’re not a fan of feta cheese, try goat cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter version.

How to Make Greek Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly right from the start. A hot oven helps create that wonderful bubbly top we all love!

Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken

If you don’t have cooked chicken ready to go, bake your chicken breasts or thighs in the oven for about 25 minutes until cooked through. Once they’re out of the oven and cooled slightly, shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Shredded chicken blends beautifully into the casserole!

Step 3: Start with Onions

In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, combine the diced onion with olive oil. Stir until well coated and then pop it into the oven for about 5 minutes. This step softens the onions and brings out their natural sweetness before adding other ingredients.

Step 4: Mix It Up

After removing the baking dish from the oven, stir in the uncooked orzo along with garlic, sundried tomatoes, chopped spinach, kalamata olives (if using), oregano, olive oil, and salt. Mixing these ingredients now allows them to infuse flavor into each bite.

Step 5: Add Chicken & Feta

Next up is adding your shredded chicken along with crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle in lemon juice and zest before giving everything another good stir. The lemon really brightens up this dish!

Step 6: Pour in Broth

Now it’s time to pour in your broth (or water). Give everything a final stir so that all those lovely ingredients are mostly submerged in liquid—this helps cook the orzo perfectly.

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 15 minutes; this steams everything together beautifully.

Step 8: Uncover & Finish Baking

After 15 minutes are up, remove the foil and give everything another gentle stir. Return it to the oven uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until most of the liquid has been absorbed and the orzo is tender.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Once done baking, let your casserole rest for about five minutes before serving. Sprinkle with extra feta and fresh parsley on top—it adds such a lovely touch! Any leftovers can be stored easily in an airtight container; they’ll keep well in your fridge for up to five days!

I hope you enjoy making this Greek Chicken Casserole as much as I do! It’s truly comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Casserole

Making this Greek chicken casserole is a breeze, but a few expert tips can help you elevate it even further!

• Use leftover chicken: If you have rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken on hand, this will save you time and enhance the flavor of your dish.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully and makes serving easier.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini—this adds variety and nutrition to your meal.
• Make it ahead of time: You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day and store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes weeknight dinners a snap!
• Adjust the liquid: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a bit more broth or use a splash of non-dairy milk for richness.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Casserole

Serving your Greek chicken casserole in style can make your meal feel even more special. Here are some ideas for presentation and pairing!

Garnishes

• • Fresh parsley*: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish with its fresh flavor.
• • Extra feta cheese*: Crumbling additional feta on top just before serving brings an extra creamy tang that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Side Dishes

• • Greek salad*: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta drizzled with olive oil pairs beautifully with this casserole.
• • Roasted vegetables*: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and herbs provide a hearty side that matches well with the Mediterranean flavors.
• • Hummus with pita chips*: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips offers a delightful contrast in texture and makes for an excellent appetizer or side.
• • Lemon garlic green beans*: Sautéed green beans tossed with lemon juice and garlic add brightness to your plate while complementing the flavors of the casserole.

Enjoy creating beautiful meals that nourish both body and soul! Your family will love gathering around this delicious dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Greek Chicken Casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep! With its hearty ingredients and vibrant flavors, you can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help clarify any uncertainties!

Can I use uncooked chicken in the Greek Chicken Casserole?

Yes, you can add uncooked chicken directly into the casserole. Just make sure to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.

How do I scale the Greek Chicken Casserole for a larger group?

To scale this recipe, simply multiply each ingredient by the number of servings you need. Make sure your baking dish is large enough to accommodate everything!

What can I substitute for orzo in my Greek Chicken Casserole?

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option or simply want a different texture, consider using quinoa or rice as a substitute for orzo.

Can I add more vegetables to my Greek Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in other favorites like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly based on added ingredients.

Is it okay to use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and mix it in as directed in the recipe!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Greek Chicken Casserole as much as we do! It’s not only packed with flavor but is also versatile enough to suit everyone’s taste buds. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep for your lunches, this dish is bound to please. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experiences making this delicious creation!