Name: Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489479H13M
Total time: PT-489479H13M
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain white rice; 375 ml low-sodium chicken broth; 680 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.5 teaspoon paprika; 240 ml tzatziki sauce; 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced (optional); 60 g crumbled feta cheese; 30 g chopped fresh parsley or dill

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·4 from 36 reviews

If you love a meal that’s bursting with Mediterranean charm yet requires minimal effort, this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken pieces nestled over perfectly cooked rice, all infused with aromatic herbs and cozy spices, and then crowned with creamy, tangy tzatziki and fresh garnishes. It’s a comforting, all-in-one dish that feels gourmet but comes together with such ease. Whether for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dump-it-all-together recipe delivers big on flavor with very little fuss.

Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients, each chosen for the way they layer complementary flavors and textures. From the fluffy rice that soaks up every ounce of broth to the fresh herbs that brighten the final dish, these basics come together beautifully in one pan.

1 cup long-grain white rice: The perfect base that cooks fluffy and light, soaking up the surrounding broth and seasonings.
375 ml low-sodium chicken broth: Adds savory depth without overpowering, keeping the dish balanced and juicy.
680 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender protein that cooks evenly and stays juicy beneath the coating of spices and tzatziki.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings warm, mellow garlic flavor that enhances the chicken effortlessly.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth without the hassle of fresh onions.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean herb-note that pairs beautifully with tzatziki and the other spices.
0.5 teaspoon paprika: Provides sweet smokiness and a hint of color for the dish.
240 ml tzatziki sauce: Creamy, tangy highlight that seals in moisture and imparts that iconic Greek-inspired flavor.
1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced for garnish (optional): Adds fresh crunch and cooling contrast to the warm, hearty bake.
60 g crumbled feta cheese: Salty, crumbly finish that elevates each bite with authentic Mediterranean flair.
30 g chopped fresh parsley or dill, for garnish: Bright, herbaceous pop of color and flavor to complete the dish.

How to Make Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Rice Base

Start by preheating your oven to 190°C and lightly greasing a 33 by 23 cm baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the uncooked long-grain rice evenly across the base of your dish. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth over the rice, making sure the grains are fully submerged—this is essential for the rice to cook perfectly during baking.

Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Seasonings

Distribute the bite-sized chicken breast pieces evenly over the rice bed. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and paprika uniformly over the chicken. These spices infuse the meat with memorable, earthy flavors that marry beautifully with the creamy tzatziki sauce you’ll add next.

Step 3: Add the Tzatziki Sauce Topping

Spoon the tzatziki sauce over the chicken, spreading it lightly to coat the surface. This sauce not only enhances moisture and tenderness but also lends the bright, tangy essence that makes this recipe stand out.

Step 4: Bake Covered and then Uncovered

Seal the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook through and the rice will absorb the flavorful broth. If you notice any remaining moisture after that time, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 5 to 10 minutes to dry out any excess liquid, ensuring the perfect texture.

Step 5: Garnish and Rest

Once out of the oven, give the dish a 5-minute rest. This pause lets everything set beautifully and makes serving easier. Then, scatter crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley or dill, and optional cucumber slices on top for a fresh and colorful finish.

How to Serve Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishes like feta cheese and fresh herbs not only add visual appeal but also bring an extra layer of flavor and texture contrast. The crumbly, salty feta paired with a sprinkle of fragrant parsley or dill and crisp cucumber slices makes each bite more exciting and authentic.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple Greek-inspired sides such as a crisp, lemony arugula salad, warm pita bread, or roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil. These additions round out the meal while keeping the Mediterranean theme intact.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve the chicken and rice directly from the baking dish on the table, letting everyone help themselves to the garnishes. Alternatively, consider plating individual portions topped with an extra dollop of tzatziki and a sprinkle of feta for a restaurant-worthy touch that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dinner or next-day lunch.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freeze the baked dish without the fresh garnishes. Use a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 175°C oven, covered, until heated through. Add fresh garnishes like cucumber slices and herbs just before serving to retain their vibrancy and crunch.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. It’s best to partially cook the brown rice beforehand or adjust the broth amount and baking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a dairy-free tzatziki alternative or make your own cucumber-yogurt sauce with coconut or almond yogurt. Skip the feta or use a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep the flavors authentic yet allergy-friendly.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Chicken thighs would work well for a juicier, more tender texture, and you might find they hold up nicely under the bake. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces similar to the chicken breasts for even cooking.

How spicy is this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe?

It’s very mild and friendly for most palates, thanks to gentle seasonings like oregano and paprika. If you prefer a little heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during the seasoning step.

Can this recipe be adapted for a slow cooker?

While this recipe is designed for the oven’s direct heat to cook the rice and chicken perfectly, you could adapt it for a slow cooker by layering ingredients and cooking on low for 3-4 hours, but keep an eye on liquid levels to avoid dryness or sogginess.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Recipe a try—it’s one of those hidden gems that transforms simple ingredients into a heartwarming, flavor-packed meal. The ease of preparation combined with the bright, fresh flavors makes it a winning dish anytime you crave something both comforting and a little Mediterranean. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!