Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s packed with Mediterranean flavors and comes together easily, this Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how this turns out—creamy feta, tender chicken, and orzo swimming in flavorful broth make every bite a little celebration. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or prepping ahead for a casual get-together, this casserole is a total crowd-pleaser.

When I first tried this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how the simple ingredients transformed into something so cozy and satisfying. You’ll find that the combination of feta and fresh spinach adds a bright, fresh note that elevates the whole dish. Plus, the lemon slices baked right on top bring a lovely zing that keeps things interesting bite after bite.

❤️

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hands-Off Cooking: You toss everything together and pop it in the oven, making dinner prep super easy.
  • Mediterranean Flair: The mix of feta, lemon, and herbs delivers an authentic taste without fuss.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: It’s casual enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests.
  • Flexible Ingredients: You can swap spinach, adjust seasonings, or use water if you don’t have broth on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This casserole calls for ingredients that complement each other beautifully — the creaminess of feta balances the tangy tomatoes, and the spinach adds a fresh, earthy undertone. Here are some shopping tips to keep in mind so you get the best results.

  • Orzo: Look for good-quality orzo as it’s the star grain that soaks up all the flavors perfectly.
  • Diced Tomatoes with Basil, Garlic, and Oregano: These deliver the foundational Mediterranean flavors; pre-seasoned canned tomatoes save a step here.
  • Feta Cheese: Use a good-quality block feta and crumble it yourself for the best texture and flavor.
  • Fresh Spinach: Adds color and nutrients; baby spinach works great because it wilts quickly.
  • Chicken Broth: Low sodium is best so you can control the salt level, but water also works in a pinch.
  • Chicken Breasts: Fresh is ideal, cut into cubes for even cooking.
  • Lemon: Thinly sliced for that fresh citrus zing right on top of the casserole.
  • Parsley and Cracked Black Pepper: Garnishes that brighten the finished dish and add a bit of peppery warmth.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how versatile this Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe is—you can easily tweak it to suit your mood or pantry. Feel free to make it your own by trying some of these ideas that I’ve found work like a charm.

  • Use Kale or Swiss Chard: When spinach runs out, I substitute with kale or chard for a heartier leafy green texture.
  • Swap Chicken for Turkey: Lean ground turkey or turkey breast cubes also taste great and are a nice change for the holidays.
  • Make It Vegan: I’ve experimented by using chickpeas instead of chicken and vegan feta substitutes to keep plant-based friends happy.
  • Add Olives: For an extra pop of briny flavor, mix in some kalamata olives—my family can’t get enough.

How to Make Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Orzo Perfectly

Start by boiling your orzo in a pot of salted water for about 8 minutes—you want it just tender but not mushy. Once it’s cooked, drain it using a mesh colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. I’ve learned this rinsing trick really helps keep the pasta from sticking together in the casserole later. Transfer the orzo to a large mixing bowl to get ready for the next step.

Step 2: Combine the Mediterranean Flavors

In that same bowl with the orzo, add the crumbled feta, fresh spinach, and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir everything together gently until well combined. This mix is what makes the casserole so luscious and flavor-packed, so don’t rush it—make sure the feta and spinach are evenly distributed throughout the orzo.

Step 3: Layer and Bake Your Casserole

Pour the orzo mixture into a casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Next, pour the chicken broth over the top—this keeps the casserole moist and lets the flavors meld beautifully during baking. Place your cubed chicken breasts evenly across the top, then arrange lemon slices on the chicken. Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid to trap steam, and bake in a 375°F oven for 40 minutes. Patience is key here—the chicken finishes cooking in the flavorful broth, making it tender and juicy.

Step 4: Let It Rest Before Serving

Once the timer goes off, resist the urge to dig in immediately! Let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes; this resting time lets the juices soak back into the orzo, giving you perfectly moist bites. The first time I served this, I spooned it up with a slotted spoon to keep the excess broth separate, but after chilling leftovers, the flavors continue to absorb, thickening the dish nicely.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe

  • Rinse the Orzo After Cooking: This stops it from overcooking and keeps each grain nicely separated in the casserole.
  • Use Fresh Lemon Slices on Top: Baking them with the chicken infuses a bright citrus aroma without overpowering the dish.
  • Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the casserole sit after baking makes the orzo soak up all the delicious juices for better flavor.
  • Cover the Dish While Baking: Keeps the moisture in so the chicken stays juicy and the feta melts perfectly.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe

Greek Chicken Casserole, Greek Chicken Casserole recipe, Mediterranean chicken bake, feta chicken casserole, easy Greek chicken dinner A glass baking dish shows a colorful layered meal, with the bottom made of golden yellow orzo and bits of green vegetables, all slightly mixed but forming the base. On top of this, there are chunks of cooked chicken that are juicy and pale with a gentle texture. Scattered over everything are white crumbles of cheese, adding a little rough texture. Bright yellow slices of lemon are evenly placed over the dish, giving a shiny and fresh look, and small sprigs of green parsley sit on top for color. The dish is on a white marbled texture, and the lighting is bright and natural.

Garnishes

I always garnish with extra crumbled feta, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. This trio adds a fresh punch and pops of color that make the dish inviting and vibrant. The parsley is particularly nice because it balances out the richness from the feta and chicken.

Side Dishes

We love pairing this Greek Chicken Casserole with a crisp Greek salad or steamed green beans drizzled with lemon olive oil. Garlic pita bread or warm naan also works beautifully to scoop up any leftover juices on the plate. You’ll find the dish is hearty on its own, but the sides brighten and elevate the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

When hosting, I’ve served this casserole in smaller ramekins for individual portions—it looks elegant and makes guests feel special. Another fun idea is to top it with a dollop of tzatziki sauce or a few olives for a Mediterranean-inspired presentation that doubles as extra flavor. Trust me, these little touches make a big impression!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store my leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and find they keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day. Be sure to drizzle a little olive oil on top before sealing to keep the orzo from drying out.

Freezing

Freezing works well if you want to prep ahead. After baking and cooling, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers. When I thaw and reheat, the texture stays solid, but I recommend reheating gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. I’ve also reheated single servings in the microwave with a splash of broth to maintain moisture. Avoid overheating so the chicken stays tender and the orzo doesn’t harden.

FAQs

  1. Can I use different pasta instead of orzo in this Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe?

    Absolutely! While orzo is traditional and absorbs flavors nicely, you can substitute small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even couscous. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly and keep the pasta slightly undercooked before baking to prevent mushiness.

  2. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

    Yes, you can! Simply swap the feta for a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely and add extra herbs and lemon zest for flavor. Using nutritional yeast sprinkled on top before baking can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy.

  3. Is it possible to prepare this casserole entirely ahead of time?

    Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge, then bake it fresh when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the fridge.

  4. What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from drying out?

    Covering the casserole tightly with foil traps steam that keeps the chicken juicy. Also, using chicken broth instead of water adds moisture and flavor, helping the chicken cook tenderly during baking.

Final Thoughts

This Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s fuss-free but doesn’t skimp on flavor. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and that it becomes one of those go-to meals you turn to when you want comfort food that feels a little special. Once you try it, I bet it’ll be on repeat at your table, too!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe

Greek Chicken Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 59 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Low Salt

Description

This Greek Chicken Casserole is a hearty and flavorful baked dish combining tender cubed chicken breasts, orzo pasta, savory diced tomatoes seasoned with basil, garlic, and oregano, creamy crumbled feta, and fresh spinach. Infused with lemon slices and garnished with parsley and cracked black pepper, it offers a balanced and comforting Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups orzo, uncooked
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with dried basil, garlic, and oregano
  • 6 oz feta, crumbled (about 1 cup)
  • 1 big handful fresh spinach
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 large chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 lemon, sliced

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Additional crumbled feta (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
  2. Cook the orzo: Boil water in a pot, cook the orzo pasta for approximately 8 minutes until tender but still slightly firm. Drain the orzo in a mesh colander and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Mix the ingredients: Add crumbled feta, fresh spinach, and the entire can of diced tomatoes (including seasonings) into the bowl with the cooked orzo. Stir gently to combine these flavorful components.
  4. Assemble the casserole: Pour the orzo mixture into a casserole dish and evenly pour 2 cups of low sodium chicken broth over it. Arrange the cubed chicken breasts on top, then place lemon slices over the chicken evenly.
  5. Bake the casserole: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid to keep moisture locked in. Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F for 40 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and flavors to meld together.
  6. Rest before serving: Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes. This resting period helps the juices absorb into the orzo for enhanced flavor and texture. Serve using a slotted spoon to allow excess juices to remain or mix back in as desired. Garnish with parsley, cracked black pepper, and more crumbled feta if you like.

Notes

  • If chicken broth is unavailable, water can be used as a substitute, though broth adds more flavor.
  • Use canned diced tomatoes already seasoned with dried basil, garlic, and oregano for authentic taste, or season plain diced tomatoes yourself.
  • Allowing the casserole to rest after baking lets the orzo fully absorb the flavorful juices, improving consistency.
  • This dish keeps well in the refrigerator, and the flavors deepen after storing.

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *