Greek Chicken Casserole – A Comforting Mediterranean-Inspired Dish

When you’re craving a wholesome, hearty, and flavorful meal that can feed the whole family, Greek Chicken Casserole is an excellent choice. Packed with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and Mediterranean spices, this one-dish wonder combines nutrition and comfort in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special gatherings, it brings the flavors of Greece to your dinner table. In this 1500-word article, we’ll cover ingredients, preparation, step-by-step instructions, variations, serving ideas, nutritional value, and expert tips.

Why Greek Chicken Casserole?

Unlike traditional creamy casseroles, this dish relies on Mediterranean staples like olive oil, herbs, and lemon to provide a lighter yet deeply satisfying flavor. It’s:

• Nutritious and balanced – full of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Family-friendly – a dish that appeals to adults and kids alike.
• Versatile – can be adapted to low-carb, gluten-free, or vegetarian versions.
• Meal-prep friendly – keeps well for days and freezes beautifully.

Ingredients for Greek Chicken Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cubed)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups cooked orzo pasta (optional, for a hearty version)

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra crumbled feta
• Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Season cubed chicken with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook chicken until lightly browned on the outside (it will finish cooking in the oven).
5. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.
2. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
3. Add zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.
4. Cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly tender.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Lightly grease a large baking dish.
2. Layer sautéed vegetables and cooked chicken.
3. Add Kalamata olives, lemon juice, and zest.
4. If using orzo pasta, mix it in evenly.
5. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top.

Step 4: Bake

• Cover dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
• Remove foil, bake an additional 10 minutes to let cheese brown slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, extra feta, and lemon wedges.
• Serve hot.

Variations of Greek Chicken Casserole

1. Low-Carb Version

• Skip the orzo pasta and add extra zucchini or cauliflower rice.

2. Creamy Greek Casserole

• Add 1/2 cup Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and garlic before baking for a creamy texture.

3. Vegetarian Version

• Replace chicken with chickpeas or roasted eggplant.

4. Spicy Kick

• Add more crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.

5. Cheesy Upgrade

• Mix mozzarella or parmesan with feta for extra cheesiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of Greek salad (cucumber, tomato, red onion, olives, feta).
• Pair with warm pita bread or garlic bread.
• Add a light soup starter, like lemon chicken orzo soup.
• Enjoy with a refreshing glass of white wine.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, with Orzo)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 17g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg

(Without orzo, carbs reduce significantly.)

Storage and Meal Prep

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until hot.

Expert Tips

1. Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
2. Roast vegetables slightly before adding to enhance flavor.
3. Don’t overbake to avoid dry chicken.
4. Balance salt levels since feta and olives are naturally salty.
5. Always use fresh lemon juice for authentic Greek taste.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Bake before serving.

Q2: Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or ricotta salata can work, but feta gives the most authentic Greek flavor.

Q3: What can I serve this with for a full meal?
Pair with salad, bread, and a light soup for a complete Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Q4: Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely! You can reduce garlic or spices for a milder version.

Q5: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well. Reduce baking time by 10 minutes.