Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki

This dump-and-bake chicken tzatziki casserole is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, flavorful, and practically fuss-free. It combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and tangy tzatziki sauce all in one dish that bakes together without any stirring, making cleanup just as easy as cooking.

I threw this together one evening when I was short on time and it immediately became a go-to comfort meal for the whole family. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but comes together effortlessly.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice: makes the base soft and fluffy choose a fresh bag for best texture
• 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth: adds moisture and depth without overpowering the flavors homemade or store-bought works fine
• 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: cut into bite-sized pieces cooks quickly and evenly try to pick firm fresh chicken for the best results
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: brings savory warmth check that it’s fragrant to avoid stale seasoning
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: enhances the background flavor quietly
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: offers a classic Mediterranean herb note opt for a vibrant green color to ensure freshness
• ½ teaspoon paprika: adds a hint of smokiness and subtle sweetness
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce: provides creamy tang and helps keep the chicken moist store-bought is fine but homemade makes it extra special
• 1 medium cucumber sliced thin for garnish: delivers crunch and a cool contrast
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: adds saltiness and creaminess to finish the dish
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley or dill for chopping fresh herbs: brighten flavors beautifully fresh herbs are preferable to dried in this case

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks and cleanup is easier.

Assemble the Base:

Spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. Pour the chicken broth in making sure the rice is completely covered so it cooks through evenly and absorbs the broth fully.

Add the Chicken:

Scatter the bite-sized chicken pieces over the rice in an even layer. Sprinkle all the seasonings garlic powder onion powder oregano and paprika evenly on top of the chicken to infuse the whole casserole with Mediterranean flavor.

Top with Tzatziki Sauce:

Gently spoon the tzatziki sauce over the chicken spreading it with the back of your spoon so each piece gets a good coating. This will keep the chicken moist and add a creamy tang during baking.

Bake:

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked and the rice is tender and fluffy. If there’s still liquid remaining uncover and bake for 5 to 10 more minutes to let it absorb.

Finish with Garnishes:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This resting step helps flavors settle and makes the dish easier to serve. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese fresh chopped parsley or dill and arrange the cucumber slices on top for freshness and crunch.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve immediately while warm savoring the creamy texture and vibrant flavors in every spoonful.

My favorite part is the tzatziki sauce because it transforms the whole casserole from ordinary baked chicken and rice into something fresh and lively. I remember making this for a friend who was new to Mediterranean flavors and seeing her face light up was the best compliment.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave adding a splash of water if the rice feels dry. This casserole loses none of its charm reheated, so it’s great for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Ingredient Swaps

For extra richness swap chicken breasts for bone-in skin-on thighs but add 10 more minutes to baking time. Chickpeas or cannellini beans can replace chicken for a vegetarian twist while keeping the Mediterranean vibe. Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and garlic makes a quick tzatziki substitute if you do not have store-bought sauce.

Serving Ideas

Pair this casserole with a green salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon to balance the creamy, hearty casserole. Warm pita bread or grilled vegetables make excellent side dishes to round out the meal.

This casserole is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something that feels homemade and comforting without hours in the kitchen. It’s one of those dishes I always turn to when I want to impress with very little effort.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead of breasts?

Yes, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs will add richer flavor and keep the meat moist. Adjust baking time slightly to ensure thorough cooking.

→ What can I substitute for tzatziki sauce?

You can use a blend of Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and lemon juice to make a fresh tzatziki or replace it with a creamy herb sauce to keep the dish moist.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes, chickpeas or other beans can replace chicken for a plant-based version, providing protein and texture while maintaining hearty flavors.

→ How do I prevent the rice from drying out?

Ensure the rice is fully submerged in chicken broth and cover the dish tightly with foil during baking to retain moisture and steam the rice evenly.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.