If you’re craving a flavorful, fuss-free meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining juicy chicken breasts baked alongside perfectly tender rice and topped with cool, creamy tzatziki, this dish balances savory and refreshing like a dream. Whether you’re feeding family or just treating yourself after a busy day, this recipe is as simple as tossing everything into one dish and letting the oven work its magic—the perfect homemade dinner without the stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to deliver impressive flavor and texture. Each one plays a key role, from juicy chicken breasts that form the hearty base, to the rice soaking up all those delicious juices, and of course, the iconic tzatziki that adds a cool, tangy finish.
- Chicken breasts: Choose skinless, boneless for even cooking and lean protein that stays tender.
- Long-grain white rice: Its fluffiness complements the chicken perfectly while soaking up savory flavors.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture to the rice, making it rich and flavorful without any fuss.
- Tzatziki sauce: Whether store-bought or homemade, this creamy cucumber and yogurt sauce brings bright, fresh zest.
- Olive oil: A drizzle enhances the chicken’s moisture and adds a subtle fruity note.
- Garlic powder: Infuses gentle aroma that enhances each bite without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the entire dish.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness as a garnish.
How to Make Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. This initial step ensures your chicken won’t stick and it readies the space for everything to come together effortlessly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and drizzle them generously with olive oil. Season each piece with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring every bite bursts with simple, savory flavor. This seasoning layer is what sets the foundation for all the deliciousness ahead.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Mixture
In a separate bowl, stir together the uncooked long-grain white rice with chicken broth and a pinch more salt and pepper. This mixture will absorb the juices from the chicken as it bakes, resulting in rice that’s full of taste and perfectly fluffy.
Step 4: Combine Rice and Chicken
Pour the rice and broth mixture around the chicken breasts in your baking dish, creating a cozy little bed for the chicken to nestle into while cooking. This one-pan method makes cleanup a breeze and guarantees combined flavors.
Step 5: Cover and Bake
Seal the dish tightly with foil to trap steam, helping cook the rice evenly and keeping the chicken juicy. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender. This hands-off step frees you up to relax or prep your garnishes.
Step 6: Add Tzatziki and Garnish
Remove the foil carefully to avoid escaping steam, then spoon tzatziki sauce over each chicken breast. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Dish up warm portions and get ready to revel in the harmony of juicy chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fluffy rice all on one plate. This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe truly turns an everyday dinner into a delightful experience.
How to Serve Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a delightful garnish, adding just a hint of herbal brightness that enhances every bite. For an extra pop, you can also sprinkle some finely chopped mint or basil, or even a little lemon zest to brighten things up further.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple Greek-inspired sides like a crisp cucumber and tomato salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread to scoop up leftover tzatziki. Light, fresh sides help balance the richness of the chicken and rice.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this recipe family-style in the baking dish straight from the oven, inviting everyone to serve themselves. Alternatively, plate it thoughtfully with a drizzle of extra tzatziki and a sprinkling of toasted pine nuts or Kalamata olives for added texture and Mediterranean flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe, simply cool leftovers completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for longer, portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to add the tzatziki sauce fresh after reheating, as it’s best served chilled and can separate if frozen.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a fresh spoonful of tzatziki on top right before serving to preserve its creamy texture and refreshing taste. This way, every meal tastes freshly made and just as delicious.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! Just note that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to increase the baking time and possibly add a bit more broth to ensure it cooks through fully.
Is homemade tzatziki better than store-bought?
Homemade tzatziki has a fresher, more vibrant flavor, but quality store-bought versions work wonderfully too. If you’re short on time, a good store-bought tzatziki will do the trick perfectly.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate it before baking. Just allow extra baking time if the ingredients go into the oven cold.
What if I don’t have chicken breasts?
Chicken thighs are a great alternative—they stay juicy and flavorful but may need a slightly longer cook time. Make sure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the rice mixture before baking adds extra color and nutrients, turning it into an even heartier one-dish meal.
Final Thoughts
This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe is a shining example of how delicious and effortless dinner can be. It’s the kind of recipe that welcomes you in after a long day with minimal prep and maximum flavor, proving that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Give it a try—you just might find that it becomes a staple in your weekly rotation, bringing a little taste of Mediterranean sunshine to your table.
Print
Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a simple and flavorful one-dish meal perfect for a busy weeknight. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned and baked alongside fluffy long-grain rice cooked in savory chicken broth. Topped with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce and fresh parsley, this easy recipe combines Greek-inspired flavors with minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste (additional)
Toppings
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Drizzle them with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Mix Rice Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the rice, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper, mixing well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Add Rice Around Chicken: Pour the rice mixture around the chicken breasts in the baking dish, ensuring the rice is spread out evenly to cook properly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the rice should be tender.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the dish from the oven, spoon the tzatziki sauce over each chicken breast, and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and rice warm. Enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make meal!
Notes
- You can use homemade tzatziki or store-bought for convenience.
- Ensure the foil is tightly sealed to keep moisture in and cook the rice evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken is cooked through.
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes before baking.
- Substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice, but increase baking time and liquid accordingly.
