Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
Description
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a hassle-free, Mediterranean-inspired meal that requires no stovetop cooking! Simply mix everything in one baking dish and let the oven do the work. Juicy, marinated chicken cooks alongside fluffy, seasoned rice, absorbing all the flavors of garlic, lemon, and Greek herbs. Finished with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Chicken & Marinade:
1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for depth of flavor)
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
For the Rice:
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine works well)
2 ½ cups chicken broth or water (use less for softer rice, more for firmer rice)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried dill (optional, for extra Greek flavor)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
½ cup cucumber, finely grated and squeezed to remove excess water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill or mint, finely chopped
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnish & Serving:
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Lemon wedges
Cherry tomatoes or sliced cucumbers (optional, for freshness)
Feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (5 minutes prep + 15 minutes marinating)
1. In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, oregano, cumin, and paprika.
2. Add chicken and coat well. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Rice & Assemble the Dish (5 minutes)
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add rice, chicken broth (or water), salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill. Stir to combine.
5. Place the marinated chicken on top of the rice, spreading evenly.
Step 3: Bake (40-45 minutes)
6. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is golden brown (internal temp should be 165°F).
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Make the Tzatziki Sauce (5 minutes, while baking)
9. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dill or mint, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
10. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
11. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve with the baked chicken.
12. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, cherry tomatoes, or crumbled feta.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~450 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Protein: ~35g
Fat: ~12g
Saturated Fat: ~3g
Fiber: ~2g
Sodium: ~600mg
Recipe Notes & Tips
Make it Low-Carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice and reduce the broth to 1 cup.
Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the rice before baking.
Use Brown Rice: Increase liquid to 3 cups and bake for 55-60 minutes.
Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade.
Storage: Leftovers last 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes! Just increase the bake time to 50-55 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. Can I use store-bought tzatziki?
Absolutely! It saves time and still tastes great.
3. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the liquid to ½ cup, mix in the dish, and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes.
4. What’s the best way to meal prep this?
Marinate the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate. Assemble everything in the baking dish the night before and bake when ready.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze the uncooked assembled dish (without the tzatziki) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Total Time Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 15 minutes marinating)
Bake Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour