Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Recipe

Name: Delicious Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt; 1 small cucumber, grated; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 2 tbsp fresh dill (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Stefanie Weber

Posted:

August 1, 2025

Updated:

August 1, 2025

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There’s something magical about the aroma of Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? Imagine tender chicken, perfectly seasoned, nestled in a bed of fluffy rice, all drizzled with that creamy, zesty tzatziki sauce. crispy chicken chimichangas Your taste buds will be dancing while your stomach sings. This dish is not just food; it’s a flavor-packed embrace that transports you straight to the Mediterranean coast.

Let’s talk about occasions! Whether it’s a family dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or you simply want to impress your taste buds after a long day, this dish is an absolute winner. a delicious stuffed salmon dish It’s like a culinary hug from the inside out and promises to deliver deliciousness that lingers long after the last bite.

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners effortless. The delightful flavors and textures create an unforgettable meal for family and friends. Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any table setting. Plus, it works beautifully as leftovers for lunch or dinner! [/info_box]

I remember the first time I made this dish; my kids thought I was some sort of kitchen magician. They devoured every bite and begged for seconds, which had me questioning if they were secretly part-hungry bear.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for optimal tenderness; adjust based on your crowd size.
Long-Grain Rice: Regular or basmati rice works best here. Avoid instant rice for better texture.
Greek Yogurt: Opt for full-fat yogurt for a creamier tzatziki sauce experience.
Cucumber: Grate it finely to mix into the tzatziki—freshness is key!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice elevates the tzatziki flavor and adds brightness.
Dill and Garlic: Fresh dill brings out authentic Mediterranean flavors; garlic adds necessary depth.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil to enhance richness in both chicken and rice. For more inspiration, check out this chicken rice bowl recipe.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s flavor in this dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before placing them at the bottom of your baking dish.

Add long-grain rice evenly over the chicken. Pour chicken broth over the rice until it’s fully submerged—this helps in achieving that perfect fluffy consistency.

In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt with grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. pair it with a Greek salad This tzatziki sauce will add a refreshing zing!

Pour half of your prepared tzatziki sauce over the chicken and rice mixture before covering everything tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake for approximately 45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice has absorbed all those delicious flavors—just wait for that heavenly aroma!

After removing from the oven, let everything rest for about five minutes before fluffing up that rice gently with a fork. Serve warm with remaining tzatziki drizzled on top—your taste buds will thank you!

This recipe not only simplifies dinner prep but also guarantees smiles around your table! So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy an easy yet impressive meal tonight!

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table. Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The best way to prepare this dish is to marinate the chicken first, then bake it alongside rice and tzatziki sauce for maximum flavor absorption.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or use quinoa instead of rice. Adding olives or feta can enhance the Mediterranean vibe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep everything moist and delicious.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a vibrant flavor boost; they elevate the dish dramatically. Make sure to let your chicken rest after cooking to ensure juiciness; this is key! Pair with a crisp salad or fresh pita for a complete meal experience. [/info_box]

Cooking Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice reminds me of those chaotic weeknights when my friends drop by unexpectedly. another easy chicken bake One time, I whipped it up so fast that everyone was shocked at how simple yet delicious it was! For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.

FAQ

What can I use instead of tzatziki?

Greek yogurt mixed with herbs makes a great substitute for tzatziki sauce.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prep the rice ahead of time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, using rice ensures it’s naturally gluten-free if cooked properly.