Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice for Effortless Flavor

Name: Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups Long Grain White Rice; 4 cups Chicken Broth; 2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts; 2 tablespoons Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1 cup Greek Yogurt; 2 cloves Minced Garlic; 1 cup Grated Cucumber; 2 tablespoons Dill; 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice; 1 teaspoon Oregano; 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 cup Cucumber Substitute (diced zucchini or bell pepper)

By: ALICE PUCK | Published onFebruary 3, 2026

Delicious Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice dish served in a bowl

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When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice, I knew I was onto something special. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between effortless preparation and vibrant flavor, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Imagine fluffy rice infused with savory chicken, all topped with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, this one-pot meal has quickly become a go-to in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What makes this recipe a must-try? For one, it’s incredibly easy to whip up—just dump all the ingredients and let the oven work its magic. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also super comforting and satisfying, appealing to even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, the tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing twist that brightens the entire dish.

“This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners! It’s quick to make and my kids can’t get enough of the tzatziki sauce on top.” – Happy Home Cook

Think of Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice for those nights when you want a wholesome meal but don’t have the energy to spend hours in the kitchen.

Preparing Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice for Effortless Flavor

Are you ready to dive into the cooking process? This recipe is designed to be straightforward. First, you’ll preheat your oven while you gather your ingredients. Assemble them in a baking dish, ensuring everything is evenly distributed for optimal flavor. After that, it’s a matter of letting the oven do the heavy lifting. Simple, right?

Gather These Items

Before you start cooking, ensure you have the following ingredients ready:

2 cups Long Grain White Rice (Jasmine or basmati rice work wonderfully)
4 cups Chicken Broth (Feel free to use water for a more subtle flavor)
2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (You can swap these with skinless thighs if you prefer)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (This will help achieve that golden crust on the chicken)
1 teaspoon Salt (A key player in enhancing flavor)
1 teaspoon Black Pepper (An essential touch for seasoning)
1 cup Greek Yogurt (Try dairy-free yogurt for a lighter take)
2 cloves Minced Garlic (Fresh garlic brings robust flavor)
1 cup Grated Cucumber (Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture)
2 tablespoons Dill (Fresh is best, but dried can work in a pinch)
2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Adds brightness to the dish)
1 teaspoon Oregano (Feel free to mix this with Italian seasoning)
1 teaspoon Paprika (To enhance the overall flavor profile)
1 cup Cucumber Substitute (For variety, diced zucchini or bell pepper can do the trick)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, combine the rice and chicken broth, stirring to mix.
Lay the chicken breasts on top, and drizzle with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
While the chicken and rice bake, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, grated cucumber, dill, lemon juice, oregano, and a pinch of salt.
Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve the chicken on top with a generous dollop of tzatziki.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Ready to dig in? This dish can be plated beautifully, with the fluffy rice acting as a bed for the chicken and a generous scoop of tzatziki on top. For sides, consider pairing it with a simple Greek salad or roasted vegetables to complement those fresh flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Store your Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish also freezes well, so you can enjoy it later. Just make sure to separate the tzatziki sauce if you plan to freeze it, as the texture may change upon thawing.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Chicken Variations: If you prefer darker meat, skinless chicken thighs can add a richer flavor.
Make Ahead: Prep your tzatziki sauce in advance to save time. It even tastes better after the flavors meld for a few hours!
Rice Choices: Experiment with different grains like quinoa for a protein boost, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Creative Twists

Want to switch things up? Here are some variations to consider:

Spice it Up: Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix in lemon zest or fresh mint for an even brighter tzatziki.
Veggie Packs: Toss in some chickpeas or roasted red peppers to add a healthy twist and varying textures.

Common Questions

How long does it take to make Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice?
This dish typically takes about 40 minutes to prepare and bake, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Can I substitute other types of rice?
Absolutely! Jasmine or basmati rice work well, but feel free to experiment with brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make it gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so long as your chicken broth and yogurt are certified gluten-free.

Can I use frozen chicken?
While you can use frozen chicken, it will require a longer cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
Sour cream can be used as a substitute, or opt for a dairy-free yogurt if you’re looking for lighter options.

Can this dish be made in advance?
Yes! The chicken, rice, and tzatziki sauce can be prepped beforehand. Just store separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Are there any dietary adjustments to consider?
You can easily make this dish dairy-free by using plant-based yogurt, and you can make it lower in carbs by using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving again!

With all these tips and insights, you’re now fully equipped to tackle this delightful recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary journey with Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice!