Chicken Tzatziki Bake Surprise

This Chicken Tzatziki Bake is the perfect blend of juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy tzatziki sauce, all baked together in one dish. Infused with Greek flavors and topped with fresh lemon and dill, this easy, comforting meal will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s as simple to make as it is delicious—ideal for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Tzatziki Bake combines all the best elements of Greek cuisine—tender chicken, herby rice, and a refreshing tzatziki topping—into one easy-to-make, flavor-packed dish. The chicken thighs stay juicy and flavorful as they bake atop a bed of seasoned rice, which absorbs all the savory flavors. The cool, creamy tzatziki sauce on top gives each bite a refreshing contrast, while the lemon and dill provide that signature Mediterranean zing. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is a breeze!

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ lbs chicken thighs

• 1 cup long grain rice

• 2½ cups chicken broth

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt & pepper

• 1 cup tzatziki sauce

• Fresh dill and lemon for garnish

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In the prepared dish, mix the rice, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then nestle them into the rice mixture, ensuring the chicken is evenly spaced. Cover the dish tightly with foil.

4. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

5. Remove from the oven and discard the foil. Top the chicken with tzatziki sauce, fresh dill, and a squeeze of lemon.

6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 50 minutes

• Total Time: 60 minutes

• Calories per serving: 490 kcal

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken thighs with roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, for a flavorful vegetarian option.

• Rice Alternatives: Use quinoa or couscous in place of rice for a different texture and flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the rice mixture for an extra kick of heat.

• Herb Mix: Try adding fresh oregano, thyme, or mint to the dish for more Mediterranean flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through. If freezing, you can freeze the baked chicken and rice mixture (without the tzatziki sauce) for up to 2 months. Reheat and top with fresh tzatziki when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out a bit more than thighs. Consider checking the internal temperature earlier to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

Can I use homemade tzatziki sauce?

Definitely! Homemade tzatziki will add even more freshness and flavor to the dish. Use your favorite recipe or make it with Greek yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, lemon, and herbs.

What type of rice works best for this dish?

Long-grain white rice works best as it cooks evenly and absorbs the liquid. If using brown rice, you may need to increase the cooking time and add extra broth.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes! For slow cooker directions, layer the rice, broth, and seasonings at the bottom, then top with chicken. Cook on low for 4–5 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, just make sure your tzatziki sauce doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients (some store-bought versions may include additives).

Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the baked chicken and rice mixture (without the tzatziki). Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat and add fresh tzatziki when serving.

Can I use other types of chicken besides thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken drumsticks or chicken legs as an alternative. Adjust cooking time based on the size of the chicken pieces.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or spinach to the rice before baking, or serve roasted vegetables alongside the chicken for added flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Conclusion

The Chicken Tzatziki Bake Surprise is a perfect marriage of comfort and Mediterranean flavors. With juicy chicken, creamy rice, and tangy tzatziki, this one-pan meal is sure to be a family favorite. It’s easy to make, full of vibrant flavors, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Top it off with fresh dill and lemon, and you’ve got a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing—Greek-inspired goodness in every bite!

Print