If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that practically makes itself, then you absolutely have to try this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Recipe. It’s everything you want in a weeknight meal—easy prep, minimal cleanup, and a gorgeous combination of tender chicken, creamy tzatziki, and perfectly cooked rice all baked together to juicy perfection. Each bite bursts with Mediterranean-inspired flavors that feel fresh yet satisfyingly hearty. Trust me, once you make this one, it’ll quickly become your go-to for busy nights and relaxed weekends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Recipe lies in how simple yet thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that turn a basic chicken and rice dish into something truly special.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that stays juicy and tender during baking.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Gives a fluffy texture that soaks up all those delicious juices.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Adds savory moisture to cook the rice perfectly and infuse flavor.
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce: Creamy, tangy, and herbaceous, it’s the signature Mediterranean twist that elevates the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Coats the dish to prevent sticking and contributes a silky richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings warm, aromatic depth to the seasoning mix.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses herbal Mediterranean notes that complement the tzatziki.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides mild heat and seasoning punch.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted on top for a luscious, bubbly finish.
How to Make Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and prep your dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and comes out beautifully tender. Drizzle olive oil into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly on the bottom to keep your dish from sticking and add that extra smooth touch.
Step 2: Arrange and season the chicken
Place your boneless skinless chicken breasts in a single layer right in the baking dish. Then, sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the chicken evenly. This seasoning combo brings out the natural flavor of the chicken while blending seamlessly with the tzatziki sauce later on.
Step 3: Add the rice and broth
Pour the rice evenly around the chicken breasts in the dish. Then, carefully pour the chicken broth over the rice, making sure it’s distributed uniformly so every grain cooks perfectly. This simple step locks in moisture and flavor, guaranteeing tender rice that complements the chicken.
Step 4: Top with tzatziki and cover
Spoon the creamy tzatziki sauce over each chicken breast, spreading it so they’re well coated—this is where the Mediterranean magic happens! Once done, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This cover traps steam during baking to cook everything evenly and keep the chicken juicy.
Step 5: Bake and finish with cheese
Bake the covered dish for 40 minutes, then carefully remove the foil to check if the rice is tender and chicken cooked through. If needed, re-cover and bake for an extra 10 minutes. Once your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally and the rice is tender, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Pop it back into the oven uncovered for 5 more minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly golden delight.
Step 6: Rest and serve
After baking, let your dish rest for about 5 minutes. This final pause lets the juices redistribute for tender bites and allows the cheese to set slightly for easier serving. Then scoop portions of the flavorful chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fluffy rice onto plates or into bowls—and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To make your meal feel fresh and vibrant, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or dill on top really wakes up the flavors. A few lemon wedges on the side add a bright citrus kick that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy tzatziki. Don’t forget a little extra drizzle of tzatziki for those who love an extra hit of cool creaminess.
Side Dishes
This dish stands wonderfully on its own but works equally well paired with crisp Greek salad or simple roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. A warm pita or crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce, turning this into a full Mediterranean celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Recipe in individual ramekins for a pretty presentation, or layer the chicken and rice in a shallow casserole dish and broil the cheese a little extra for a golden crust. You can even scoop portions into warm pita pockets topped with fresh cucumber and tomato for handheld magic!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got some leftovers? Store any uneaten chicken with rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish actually tastes great reheated, as the flavors continue to meld and deepen.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for longer storage by placing cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags. Be sure to label with the date and consume within 2 months for the best taste and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, warm your portions in the microwave or oven until piping hot. If using the oven, cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding a splash of broth or water can bring the rice back to fluffy perfection.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Definitely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber but will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust baking time accordingly or cook the rice partially before combining.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It’s a fantastic meal prep option since it reheats well and stores nicely. Just portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I swap mozzarella cheese for something else?
Yes! Feel free to use feta for a tangier Mediterranean touch or a mild cheddar if you want a different cheese flavor. Just add it near the end as directed to melt perfectly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, simply skip the mozzarella cheese and use a tzatziki sauce made without dairy or substitute with a dairy-free yogurt-based tzatziki option.
What can I do if I don’t have tzatziki sauce?
If you’re out of tzatziki, you can mix plain Greek yogurt with minced cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill to create a quick homemade version that still brings that fresh, creamy flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Recipe is nothing short of a weeknight miracle. Its simplicity and bold Mediterranean flavors make it an absolute joy to cook and eat. Once you try it, the ease, comfort, and tastiness will keep you coming back to it time and again. So go ahead and dive in—you deserve this delicious, hassle-free meal on your table!
