This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice mixes cooked rice, cubed chicken, and tzatziki in one pan and bakes until hot. It is easy to change and saves time. If you like simple rice casseroles, you might also enjoy a similar comfort dish like this chicken broccoli rice casserole.
Why make this recipe
This dish is quick, simple, and full of flavor. It uses plain pantry foods and one jar of tzatziki to make a cozy meal with little work. It is great for busy weeknights and for feeding a small family.
How to make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
You make this in one bowl and one baking dish. Mix the chicken, rice, tzatziki, broth, and spices. Cover and bake until the chicken is cooked and the rice is fluffy. For other fast chicken ideas, try a crunchy snack like air fryer chicken bites.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken, cooked rice, tzatziki sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
How to serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
Serve warm from the oven. Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness. A simple salad or roasted vegetables go well on the side. Top with extra tzatziki or chopped fresh herbs if you like.
How to store Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
Cool the dish to room temperature. Put leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or heat in the microwave in short bursts. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
- Use cooked rice that is slightly dry, not soggy. It holds texture better in the bake.
- Cut chicken to even sizes so it cooks evenly.
- If your tzatziki is thin, reduce the chicken broth slightly to avoid a watery bake.
- Check chicken with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the dish rest 5 minutes after baking so juices settle.
Variation
- Add chopped spinach or frozen peas for color and nutrition.
- Swap tzatziki for plain Greek yogurt plus a bit of dill and cucumber for a fresher taste.
- Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a twist.
- Top with shredded mozzarella in the last 10 minutes for a melty finish.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes. Thaw it first, then cube and use as written. If you bake from frozen, cooking time will take longer.
Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: Yes. Mix ingredients and store covered in the fridge. Bake within 24 hours for best texture.
Q: Is it okay to use homemade tzatziki?
A: Yes. Homemade tzatziki works well. Adjust salt and lemon to taste.
Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes, but use pre-cooked brown rice. Brown rice is firmer, so it may change the texture slightly.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small drizzle of hot sauce to the mix before baking.
Conclusion
This easy dump-and-bake meal gives you creamy, savory chicken and rice with bright tzatziki flavor. For another tzatziki-style idea with fresh flavors, see Chicken Tzatziki Bowls – Peanut Butter and Fitness. For a similar recipe guide and tips, check Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice – All Nutritious.
Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice Use slightly dry rice.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed Cut into even sizes for even cooking.
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce Homemade tzatziki can also be used.
- 1 cup chicken broth Reduce if tzatziki is thin.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish) Use for added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken, cooked rice, tzatziki sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.