Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice

If you’re craving a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired meal without all the fuss, this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is your new go-to recipe. Juicy chicken, creamy tzatziki, tender rice, and vibrant veggies all come together in one dish—no stovetop required! Just mix, bake, and enjoy a wholesome dinner packed with flavor and texture.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One-Dish Wonder – Everything cooks together in one baking dish—no mess, no stress.
Bold Mediterranean Flavor – Creamy, garlicky tzatziki, herby chicken, and bright lemon zest.
Healthy & Hearty – Lean protein, whole grains, and fresh veggies make it a balanced meal.
Super Simple – No pre-cooking needed; just dump, stir, and bake.
Family-Friendly – Mild, familiar flavors even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 1 ½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice (not instant)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (for creaminess and tang)
• ½ cup store-bought tzatziki sauce (or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup diced cucumber
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

For Topping and Garnish:

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Foil
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add chicken chunks, uncooked rice, chicken broth, Greek yogurt, tzatziki, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Stir everything together until well mixed and the rice is evenly coated.

Step 3: Add Veggies
Gently fold in cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and red onion.
Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 4: Cover and Bake
Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap moisture and help the rice cook evenly.
Bake for 45 minutes.

Step 5: Check and Finish Baking
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and check the rice. If it’s still firm, give it a quick stir, then re-cover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Add Feta and Fresh Herbs
Once the casserole is fully cooked, remove from the oven.
Sprinkle crumbled feta, fresh dill, and parsley over the top.

Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to help the flavors settle and the texture firm up.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.

Tips for Success
Use Long-Grain Rice – Shorter grains may turn mushy, while long-grain rice stays fluffy.
Don’t Skip the Foil – It helps the rice absorb the broth properly and prevents drying out.
Adjust Creaminess – Add more Greek yogurt or tzatziki after baking if you prefer a creamier texture.
Make It Vegetarian – Swap chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based version.
Use Leftovers – This dish reheats beautifully and makes great lunch bowls the next day.

Serving Suggestions
Greek Salad – Add a side of greens, olives, and cucumbers tossed in lemon vinaigrette.
Toasted Pita Bread – Perfect for scooping and serving alongside.
Roasted Vegetables – Try bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for extra color and nutrition.
Chilled Tzatziki – Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Oven: Cover and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but it requires a longer cook time and possibly more broth. Consider partially cooking it beforehand.

2. What if I don’t have tzatziki?
You can mix Greek yogurt with a little grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill for a quick substitute.

3. Can I prep this ahead?
Absolutely! Assemble everything the night before and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

4. Is it spicy?
Nope—this dish is mild and creamy, but you can add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.

5. Can I add other veggies?
Definitely. Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or artichokes all work well in this dish.

Final Thoughts
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is the perfect combination of easy prep, vibrant flavor, and comforting texture. With just one dish and a handful of ingredients, you get a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying.

Make it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a stress-free way to bring the family together around the table. Try it once, and it’ll be a regular in your rotation!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: American (with Mediterranean influence)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 410 | Protein: 29g | Carbohydrates: 36g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 510mg

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