Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a fuss-free, Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s bursting with creamy, herby flavor. With juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a tangy tzatziki base, everything cooks together in one dish—no pre-cooking required. It’s quick to prep, full of bright, fresh flavors, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighsuncooked long-grain white ricechicken broth or stocktzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)lemon juicegarlic powdersaltblack pepperdried oreganocucumber slices (optional for garnish)cherry tomatoes and crumbled feta (optional for serving)fresh dill or parsley (for garnish)

directions

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

Spread uncooked rice evenly across the bottom of the dish.

Pour chicken broth over the rice and stir in half of the tzatziki, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Nestle the chicken into the rice mixture and spoon remaining tzatziki sauce over each piece.

Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F/74°C).

Remove foil and broil for 2-3 minutes if you want a lightly browned top.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, feta, tomatoes, and cucumber if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 45-50 minutesTotal time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

Add chopped spinach or olives to the rice for extra Mediterranean flair.

Use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs if you don’t have tzatziki.

Try brown rice, adjusting liquid and baking time as needed.

Top with grilled zucchini or roasted red peppers for added veggies.

Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.Add a splash of broth if rice has dried out during storage.Not recommended for freezing due to the dairy in tzatziki.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

This recipe is designed for uncooked rice—pre-cooked rice would become mushy.

Is homemade tzatziki better?

Homemade is fresher, but store-bought works great for convenience.

What kind of rice should I use?

Long-grain white rice is best. Avoid instant or quick-cooking varieties.

Can I use skin-on chicken?

Yes, but it may release more fat and change the texture of the dish.

Does the dish taste strongly of yogurt?

The tzatziki adds a tangy, creamy flavor but mellows as it bakes.

Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s mild. Add chili flakes or harissa for heat if desired.

Conclusion

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a no-stress meal packed with Mediterranean flavor and creamy comfort. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s an easy way to bring fresh, wholesome ingredients to your dinner table—perfect for busy nights and big appetites.

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