Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is an easy, one-pan meal packed with Mediterranean flavors! Juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy, garlicky tzatziki-inspired sauce all come together effortlessly—no stovetop cooking required. Just mix, bake, and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free dinner!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder – Everything bakes together, making cleanup a breeze.
• Bursting with Mediterranean Flavors – Creamy yogurt, garlic, and herbs create a rich, tangy taste.
• No Pre-Cooking Required – Just mix and bake—perfect for busy nights!
• Protein-Packed & Satisfying – A hearty meal with chicken and rice that keeps you full.

Ingredients for Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice

For the Chicken and Rice:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice – Uncooked (basmati or jasmine works best).
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Helps cook the rice to perfection.
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt – The base of the creamy tzatziki sauce.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds a little richness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Brings bold flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Classic Mediterranean seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon dried dill – Adds fresh, herby notes.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – A little spice.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Brightens up the dish.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – For a hint of tang.
• ½ cup cucumber, finely diced – Mimics the freshness of tzatziki.

For Garnish (Optional):

• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled – For a creamy, salty finish.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Adds color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges – For extra brightness.

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish – For even cooking.
• Mixing bowl – To combine ingredients.
• Foil – To cover the dish while baking.

How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

3. In the baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, oregano, dill, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, and diced cucumber. Stir well to mix everything evenly.
4. Add the chicken pieces to the dish and stir again to coat them in the sauce.

Step 3: Bake the Dish

5. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

7. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes.
8. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley, then serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean feast.
• Pair with a side Greek salad for extra freshness.
• Add a drizzle of extra tzatziki sauce for even more creaminess.

Tips for the Best Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice

• Use Long-Grain Rice – Short-grain rice can get mushy; basmati or jasmine work best.
• Cover While Baking – Keeps the moisture in so the rice cooks evenly.
• Adjust the Seasoning – Taste before serving and add extra lemon or salt if needed.
• Try Chicken Thighs – They stay extra juicy during baking!

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate Leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Gently – Microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
• Freeze for Later – Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes! However, brown rice takes longer to cook. Use 2 ½ cups broth and bake for 50-55 minutes before uncovering.

Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative like coconut or almond yogurt.

Q3: Can I add veggies to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Try adding cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Conclusion: A Quick & Flavorful Mediterranean Meal!

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is the perfect no-fuss dinner—creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean with minimal effort!

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your culinary creations.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 2g

Enjoy this easy, flavorful, and nutritious one-pan meal!

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