Name: Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast or boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced into bite-size pieces; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes); 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or ½ teaspoon dried oregano); 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ¾ teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s brand); ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon turmeric; ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice; 1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1 ½ cups grated); 2 cups chicken broth; Tzatziki sauce; Pita bread; Chopped fresh herbs such as fresh dill, basil, parsley, or chives; Fresh lemon wedges

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 86 reviews

If you are craving a flavorful, effortless meal that feels like a warm hug from the Mediterranean, then this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender, herb-marinated chicken pieces nestled atop fragrant, fluffy rice with refreshing zucchini, all baked in one dish until perfection. Then, finishing it with a cooling dollop of creamy tzatziki creates a perfect harmony of tastes and textures. This recipe is not only incredibly simple, but it also bursts with vibrant herbs and spices that make every bite exciting and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with raw chicken pieces that are coated with a reddish-orange marinade and sprinkled with green herbs. The chicken pieces are uneven shapes and placed in a loose pile inside the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the seasoning on the chicken gives it a slightly shiny and textured look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe is a breeze thanks to a handful of fresh, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and ensuring a colorful, balanced dish.

Chicken: 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced for quick cooking and even seasoning absorption.
Lemon juice: Adds bright acidity to cut through the richness and tenderize the chicken beautifully.
Olive oil: Provides a silky base for the marinade and helps keep the chicken juicy.
Fresh herbs: Parsley, oregano, and thyme bring fragrant, garden-fresh notes that transport your taste buds.
Smoked paprika and spices: Smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, and a touch of cayenne pepper introduce smoky warmth and subtle heat.
Seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper: These enhance savory flavors and deepen the complexity.
Long grain white rice: The perfect fluffy base that soaks up all the marvelous juices during baking.
Zucchini: Coarsely grated for a subtle veggie boost and a fresh, moist texture.
Chicken broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that ensures the rice cooks tender and aromatic.
Tzatziki sauce (for serving): Adds a cooling creaminess that elevates every bite.
Optional garnishes: Pita bread, fresh herbs like dill or basil, and lemon wedges bring extra brightness and texture.

How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by preparing a 9 x 13-inch baking dish by greasing it or spraying with nonstick spray. Toss your bite-sized chicken pieces with lemon juice, olive oil, and all those fragrant herbs and spices: parsley, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, seasoned salt, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, turmeric, and cayenne. Allow the chicken to sit and soak up all those flavor-packed aromas at room temperature for 30 minutes. This marinating step ensures each morsel is burstingly flavorful and tender before baking.

Step 2: Combine Rice, Zucchini, and Broth

Once your chicken is marinated, add the uncooked long grain white rice, coarsely grated zucchini, and chicken broth directly into the baking dish with the chicken. Stir everything gently to mix and distribute flavors evenly. This one-pot approach means minimal cleanup and maximum convenience. Make sure all your ingredients mingle well so that as they bake, the rice absorbs all the wonderful juices for a tender and perfectly cooked result.

Step 3: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap moisture and steam inside. This is essential to cook the rice thoroughly and tenderize the chicken evenly. Bake in a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C) for about 45-50 minutes if using a metal pan, or closer to 50-60 minutes if baking in glass or ceramic. The cooking time can vary slightly based on your pan and oven, so keep an eye on the rice’s texture. Taste-testing toward the end is key—the rice should be tender and all the liquid absorbed.

Step 4: Fluff and Season

After baking, remove the foil and use a fork to gently fluff up the rice. This releases any trapped steam and avoids clumping. Then, taste and adjust seasoning if needed—sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can really brighten it up. By now, your kitchen will be filled with enchanting aromas and you’re just seconds away from enjoying the deliciousness you’ve created.

How to Serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe

A large white rectangular baking dish full of yellow rice mixed with small pieces of cooked chicken and green herbs. On top, there are four dollops of white creamy sauce sprinkled with green parsley, each near small wedges of bright yellow lemon. A spoon with a wooden handle is scooping some rice in the middle of the dish. The background shows a white marbled surface with scattered fresh herbs, a white plate with pita bread, and a bowl of sliced veggies. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A vital finishing touch for this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe is topping it with generous dollops of cool, tangy tzatziki sauce. A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like dill, basil, parsley, or chives instantly lifts the dish both visually and in flavor. Don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to add that extra pop of brightness that ties all the elements together beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own, but you can round out the meal with warm pita bread to scoop up every last bite of rice and chicken. A crisp Greek salad or lightly roasted vegetables make excellent companions, adding crunch and freshness that blends perfectly with the creamy tzatziki and herb-packed chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe family-style straight from the baking dish for a cozy, comforting vibe. Alternatively, you can portion it into individual bowls topped with extra tzatziki, fresh herbs, and lemon wedges for a more elegant presentation that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The vibrant colors and fragrant aromas make it as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making it a delicious next-day meal. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before enjoying again.

Freezing

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe freezes well, making it a fantastic make-ahead option. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist and prevent it from drying out. Top with fresh tzatziki and herbs right before serving to refresh the flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and potentially more liquid. It’s best to partially cook the brown rice before assembling the dish or adjust baking time accordingly.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 30 minutes?

The marinating step really boosts flavor and tenderizes the chicken, but if you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will help. The longer you marinate, the more those herbs and spices infuse every bite.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and replace chicken pieces with chopped mushrooms or tender tofu cubes. The flavor profile remains delightful, especially with the herb and spice mix.

What kind of tzatziki sauce works best?

Homemade tzatziki with fresh cucumber, garlic, dill, and Greek yogurt offers the best flavor, but good-quality store-bought versions work just fine for an easy shortcut.

Do I need to cover the dish tightly with foil when baking?

Yes, covering the dish tightly traps steam and moisture, which is crucial for perfectly cooking the rice and keeping the chicken tender and juicy throughout baking.

Final Thoughts

I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive into this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice Recipe as soon as you can. It’s one of those rare dishes that feels special without the fuss, offering comforting, layered flavors with minimal cleanup. Gather your ingredients, prepare it with love, and enjoy the rewarding satisfaction of a true crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, I promise it will become a beloved classic in your home.