Some nights, you just want a meal that feels like a warm hug. This Greek Chicken Rice Casserole is exactly that—a blend of comfort and Mediterranean sunshine in one dish. It’s the kind of dinner that doesn’t require too much fuss but delivers layers of flavor that stick with you long after the last bite.
I remember one evening when I tried this recipe for the first time. My kitchen smelled like a bustling Greek taverna, with garlic and oregano filling the air. I was halfway through chopping the chicken when my phone buzzed, distracting me, and I almost forgot to add the olives. That little hiccup might have been a blessing though—the mix of salty olives and creamy feta turned out perfectly balanced. I sliced some crusty bread while the casserole baked, and by the time it was ready, the house felt like a cozy retreat. The first forkful was a mix of juicy chicken, tender rice, and those bright cherry tomatoes bursting through. I wasn’t in a rush to finish, savoring each bite and already thinking how this would become a repeat.
- It’s comforting and hearty, perfect for evenings when you want something filling without too much hands-on time.
- The blend of oregano, thyme, and feta brings a Mediterranean vibe without needing exotic ingredients.
- While it’s rich in flavor, the recipe is straightforward—no complicated steps, but still impressive on the plate.
- The casserole is best fresh; reheating is doable but the texture changes a bit, so plan to enjoy it right away.
Sometimes, you want a meal that doesn’t demand your full attention but still makes you feel like a kitchen star. This Greek Chicken Rice Casserole fits that bill pretty well.
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Greek Chicken Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
A flavorful and comforting Greek-inspired chicken rice casserole featuring tender chicken, fragrant rice, tangy feta cheese, and classic Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups long grain white rice, rinsed
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it well with the oil, onion, and garlic mixture.
Pour in the chicken broth and add dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Arrange the chicken pieces evenly over the rice mixture.
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives over the top.
Cover the skillet or casserole dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
Remove the cover and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the casserole.
Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is slightly browned and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
Using an oven-safe skillet or casserole dish makes this recipe easy and convenient—no need for multiple pans. When serving, a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies complements the rich casserole nicely. I’ve also tried swapping cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor, but it’s not quite the same—just a personal twist. Sometimes, I toss in a bit more feta on top for extra tang, though it can get a little salty if you’re not careful. For a lighter take, I’ve used chicken breast instead of thighs, but the thighs keep everything juicier.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white? Brown rice could work, but the cooking time and liquid will need adjustment. I haven’t tested this thoroughly yet.
Is it possible to make this ahead? You can prepare it up to the baking step, then refrigerate and bake later, though the texture might be a bit different.
Can I freeze leftovers? Freezing is not recommended as the rice and chicken texture may change upon thawing.
Ready for a cozy dinner that brings a little taste of Greece to your table? Give this casserole a try and see how simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying.