Jump to Recipe Print RecipeYou won’t believe how effortlessly this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake comes together! Inspired by the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, this one-dish wonder combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of aromatic spices topped with a luscious tzatziki sauce. What’s more, this easy recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a fantastic choice for accommodating diverse dietary preferences. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, you’ll find that this recipe simplifies meal prep while still delivering on taste. So, ready to dive into a delicious flavor journey? Let’s bring some Mediterranean magic to your table! Why Is This Tzatziki Rice Bake Amazing? Simplicity at its Finest: This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is a no-fuss recipe that combines everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! Mediterranean Flavors: Experience the vibrant mix of spices and creamy tzatziki elevating your weeknight dinners to a new gastronomic level. Healthy and Accommodating: Being gluten-free and dairy-free, it’s the perfect solution for various dietary needs—guests will love it! Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap chicken for turkey or tofu, and add seasonal veggies like bell peppers for extra nutrition. Make-Ahead Ease: Prep it in advance and store in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without last-minute stress—perfect for busy nights! Indulge in more Mediterranean flavors with our Thai Chicken Soup for a delightful twist! Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Ingredients Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful and flavorful dish! For the Chicken and Rice • Chicken – 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced; this protein is the heart of your Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake. • Uncooked Long Grain White Rice – 1 cup; provides lovely structure and fluffy texture—swap for brown rice if you prefer a healthier option. • Zucchini – 1 medium, coarsely grated; this veggie adds moisture and nutrition—feel free to use yellow squash as a substitute. • Chicken Broth – 2 cups; infuses the rice with delicious flavor—vegetable broth works for a vegetarian twist. • Lemon Juice – 2 tablespoons; brightens and enhances flavors—lime juice can make a fantastic alternative. • Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons; brings richness and helps flavors meld together—avocado oil can be used instead. • Chopped Fresh Herbs – 2 tablespoons total (parsley, oregano, thyme); these fragrant herbs elevate the dish’s flavor—½ tsp of dried herbs works in a pinch. For the Seasoning • Spices – smoked paprika, seasoned salt, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; together, they create an aromatic blend that’s full of warmth—adjust the spice levels according to your taste! For Serving • Tzatziki Sauce – for topping; this creamy accompaniment adds a fresh contrast to the warm dish—homemade or store-bought is perfect! • Pita Bread and Fresh Herbs – optional garnishes for added texture and a pop of flavor. Now you’re all set to start cooking! Dive into this easy, Mediterranean-inspired Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake and let the flavors do the talking. Enjoy every bite! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Step 1: Prep the Dish Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced chicken, lemon juice, olive oil, fresh herbs, and seasonings. Ensure each piece of chicken is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for about 30 minutes, infusing the chicken with Mediterranean flavors while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. Step 2: Combine Ingredients Once the chicken has marinated, pour the uncooked long grain white rice into the greased baking dish. Next, add the coarsely grated zucchini and chicken broth. Carefully place the marinated chicken on top of the rice mixture, making sure to spread it evenly. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, letting the rice soak up some of the broth and seasonings for that delicious Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake flavor. Step 3: Bake the Dish Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent moisture from escaping. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. Check for doneness—if the rice looks tender and liquid mostly absorbed, it’s ready! If not, leave it in for an additional 5–10 minutes, keeping an eye on it for the perfect texture. Step 4: Finish and Serve After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Fluff the rice with a fork, ensuring it separates nicely. Taste and adjust any seasoning if needed. To serve, generously top the warm Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake with dollops of tzatziki sauce, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon for a burst of flavor. Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Variations Feel free to embrace creativity and make this Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake your own by trying these delightful variations! Quinoa Alternative: Substitute quinoa for rice to create a gluten-free version with nuttier flavor. Quinoa cooks up beautifully with the same spices and gives a lovely texture. Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or even artichokes to amp up the nutrition. These colorful additions will not only enhance flavors but also make the dish more vibrant! Hummus Swap: Replace tzatziki sauce with creamy hummus for a different twist. The rich flavor will still provide that delightful creamy finish you crave. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat. This will give your dish a spicy Mediterranean flair that’s exciting and bold! Herb Variations: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill or basil for a unique flavor profile. Each herb brings a distinct taste that can transform your dish entirely. Vegetable Broth Upgrade: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant-based option that still delivers rich flavor. Perfect for vegetarians without sacrificing taste! Lemon Zest Boost: Sprinkle in some lemon zest in addition to the lemon juice for an extra pop of freshness. It brightens up the dish and enhances those Mediterranean notes. So, as you enjoy this incredible Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake, remember, the sky’s the limit when it comes to creativity in the kitchen! If you’re looking for more delicious dishes, consider trying our amazing Baked Chicken Tenders or warm up with a bowl of Thai Chicken Soup. Happy cooking! Tips for the Best Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Marinate Well: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate, creating a more delicious Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake. Don’t Skip the Foil: Covering the dish tightly with foil during baking is essential to retain moisture and ensure the rice cooks evenly—avoid peeking to keep the steam inside! Check Liquid Levels: If the rice isn’t fully cooked after 40 minutes, add an extra splash of broth or water and continue to bake, ensuring it reaches that perfect fluffy texture. Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, to the mix—just ensure they’re diced to the same size for even cooking. Perfect Tzatziki Pairing: For enhanced flavor, consider making your own tzatziki sauce using Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, and lemon juice for a fresh and zesty touch! What to Serve with Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice? Imagine a warm gathering where the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean fill the air, enticing everyone to the table. Creamy Greek Salad: This fresh salad, with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, adds a crisp contrast that beautifully enhances the chicken’s rich flavors. Garlic Pita Bread: Warm, soft pita is perfect for scooping and enjoying bites of rice and tzatziki, adding a delightful carb element to the meal. Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal veggies, roasted to perfection, offers an appealing crunch and subtle sweetness balancing the dish’s spices. Lemon Herb Quinoa: This light and fluffy side dish mirrors the lemon notes in the Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake, while providing a protein-packed alternative. Tzatziki Dip with Veggies: Pair extra tzatziki with crunchy veggie sticks for a refreshing snack that echoes the flavors of the main dish. Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate, enhancing the Mediterranean experience with a touch of citrus zing. Baklava: Finish the meal on a sweet note with this honey-soaked pastry; its flaky texture and sweet richness create a joyful dessert contrast. Hummus Plate: A vibrant spread of hummus and assorted vegetable sticks adds another layer of flavor while complementing the creamy tzatziki sauce. Grilled Halloumi: Sliced and perfectly grilled, this savory cheese adds a delightful texture and a rich, mild flavor that pairs well with the dish. Storage Tips for Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months; label with the date for convenience. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of broth to keep the rice moist during reheating. Serving Reminder: Serve warm with fresh tzatziki on top for the best flavor experience in your Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake! Make Ahead Options These Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is ideal for busy home cooks seeking to simplify mealtime! You can prep the dish up to 24 hours in advance by assembling all ingredients in a greased baking dish, then covering it tightly with foil and refrigerating. This not only saves you time on hectic evenings but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, checking for doneness before serving. To ensure the rice remains fluffy and delicious, avoid skipping the foil during baking to retain moisture. Enjoy a stress-free dinner with this flavorful Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake waiting for you! Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken should I use for this dish? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for the best flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, diced turkey works beautifully too! For a plant-based alternative, consider using firm tofu; just make sure to press it to remove excess moisture before adding it to the dish. How should I store leftovers, and how long do they last? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or oven until heated through—add a splash of broth to keep the rice moist! Can I freeze Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake? Absolutely! This dish freezes wonderfully. Pour the cooled leftovers into airtight containers or freezer bags, and they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through, adding a bit of broth to maintain moisture. What if my rice isn’t fully cooked after the baking time? If the rice isn’t tender after the initial 40 minutes, don’t worry! Just add an extra splash of broth or water, cover it tightly again with foil, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until it reaches that fluffy perfection—it’s all about the moisture! Is this recipe safe for people with dietary restrictions? Yes, it’s great for those with gluten and dairy sensitivities! The Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is both gluten-free and dairy-free. Just double-check the tzatziki sauce you use or make your own with non-dairy yogurt to easily accommodate vegans. Always read ingredient labels to ensure there are no hidden allergens! Can pets eat Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake? It’s best to keep this dish away from pets. While cooked chicken and rice are typically safe for dogs, the spices and tzatziki sauce can upset their stomachs. Always check with your veterinarian before sharing any human food with your furry friends! Delicious Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake for Easy Weeknight Dinners This Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is a gluten-free, dairy-free dish combining tender chicken, rice, and tzatziki sauce for a delicious weeknight meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: MediterraneanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken and Rice1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced1 cup uncooked long grain white rice or brown rice for a healthier option1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated or yellow squash as a substitute2 cups chicken broth vegetable broth for a vegetarian option2 tablespoons lemon juice or lime juice as a substitute2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, oregano, thyme) or ½ tsp of dried herbsFor the Seasoningsmoked paprikaseasoned saltcuminonion powdergarlic powderblack pepperturmericcayenne pepperFor Servingtzatziki sauce for toppingpita bread optionalfresh herbs optional garnishes Equipment 9x13 inch baking dishlarge mixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced chicken, lemon juice, olive oil, fresh herbs, and seasonings. Allow it to marinate for about 30 minutes. Pour the uncooked long grain white rice into the greased baking dish. Add the grated zucchini and chicken broth. Place the marinated chicken on top of the mixture. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Check for doneness, adding 5-10 minutes if required. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Fluff the rice with a fork, adjust seasoning, and serve topped with tzatziki sauce and fresh herbs. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of broth. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
