Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice

This easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice recipe brings the vibrant, fresh flavors of Greek cuisine to your dinner table with minimal effort. Tender chicken, creamy tzatziki, and perfectly cooked rice come together in a single dish that’s hearty, tangy, and delicious. Best of all—there’s no need for precooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan dinner = minimal cleanup
• Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
• Deliciously Mediterranean-inspired flavor
• Customizable with optional toppings like feta and parsley
• Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat and Prepare

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

Mix the Base

3. In the baking dish, add the uncooked rice, chicken broth or water, olive oil, garlic, dill, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir the mixture to evenly combine the seasonings.

Layer the Chicken and Yogurt

5. Place the chicken pieces evenly over the seasoned rice base.
6. In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and lemon juice.
7. Pour this yogurt mixture evenly over the chicken and rice, then smooth it gently with a spoon.

Bake

8. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).

Add Toppings and Finish

10. Remove the foil and, if using, sprinkle crumbled feta on top.
11. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese slightly.
12. Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish and Serve

13. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro.
14. Serve warm with a side salad or warm pita bread.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Use long-grain white rice like jasmine or basmati for the best texture.
• Squeeze the grated cucumber well so the yogurt sauce stays thick.
• Let the dish rest after baking to allow moisture to settle evenly.
• For added texture, top with sliced olives or red onion.
• Make ahead: Prep through Step 3 and refrigerate up to 12 hours before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple Greek salad or roasted veggies
• Serve with toasted pita wedges for scooping
• Add a side of hummus or olives for a complete Mediterranean spread
• Serve with a cold glass of white wine or lemon sparkling water

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months
• Reheat: Microwave or bake at 325°F until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to keep moist
• Best enjoyed fresh but reheats well!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Thaw fully before using so the rice cooks evenly.

Can I use brown rice?
Yes, increase the liquid slightly and bake longer—up to 50 minutes.

Is there a dairy-free option?
Use a non-dairy yogurt like coconut or almond-based and omit the feta.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or roasted vegetables and use veggie broth.

Conclusion

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a brilliant blend of ease and flavor. With zero stove time and maximum flavor, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is the answer to your weeknight dinner needs. Creamy, zesty, and satisfying, it’s sure to be a new family favorite.

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