Name: Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups long grain rice; 2 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1 1/2 lb chicken breast cubed; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 zucchini sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 1/2 red onion sliced; 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce; 1/3 cup crumbled feta

I honestly havent really shared many chicken and rice casserole recipes before however this Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake was one I knew I had to write about and pass along to anyone who loves simple oven baked meals.

This Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is inspired by Mediterranean style cooking and it is easy to prepare and make at home while still feeling complete filling and balanced for everyday meals.

When people think about baked rice dishes they sometimes assume they are bland or dry yet trust me when this Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is prepared the right way it delivers a rich savory and satisfying result so keep reading as I show you exactly how to make it.

Ingredients

Here is what I use for this recipe and each ingredient plays a role in building flavor texture and balance without making the dish complicated.

Chicken breast: Provides lean protein and absorbs seasoning as it bakes with the rice.
Long grain rice: Forms the base of the bake and cooks up fluffy while soaking in flavor.
Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth allowing the rice to cook evenly.
Zucchini: Brings freshness and a tender bite that balances the rice.
Cherry tomatoes: Add sweetness and juiciness throughout the bake.
Red onion: Gives mild sharpness and color once baked.
Olive oil: Helps coat ingredients and encourages even cooking.
Garlic: Enhances overall flavor with savory warmth.
Dried oregano: Adds classic Mediterranean aroma.
Salt: Balances and enhances all ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and seasoning.
Tzatziki sauce: Finishes the dish with creamy tangy contrast.
Feta cheese: Adds salty creaminess when crumbled on top.

Tools You’ll Need

Baking dish: Holds all ingredients and allows even oven cooking.
Mixing bowl: Used for seasoning the chicken and vegetables.
Measuring cups: Ensure correct rice to liquid ratio.
Chef knife: Makes clean cuts for chicken and vegetables.
Foil: Helps trap steam so the rice cooks properly.

Instructions

Step 1 Prepare the Chicken

I start by cutting the chicken breast into bite sized pieces. I toss them with olive oil garlic oregano salt and black pepper so every piece is evenly seasoned before baking.

Step 4 Build the Chicken Base

I distribute the seasoned chicken pieces evenly over the vegetables. This allows the juices to drip down and flavor the rice as it bakes.

Step 2 Add the Rice

I spread the uncooked rice evenly in the bottom of the baking dish. I pour the chicken broth over the rice making sure it is fully submerged so it cooks evenly.

Step 3 Add Vegetables

I scatter sliced zucchini cherry tomatoes and red onion over the rice. I gently press them down so they sit slightly into the liquid.

Step 5 Add Chicken Stock

Pour the chicken stock evenly over the casserole, then sprinkle with 1/4 cup of feta cheese. Arrange 6–8 lemon wedges evenly across the top.

Step 6 Bake Covered

I cover the dish tightly with foil and bake until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. I avoid lifting the foil too early so steam stays inside.

Step 7 Finish and Garnish

Once baked I remove the foil and let the dish rest briefly. I finish with crumbled feta and generous spoonfuls of tzatziki sauce before serving.

Tips

When I want extra flavor I marinate the chicken in a little tzatziki beforehand. If the rice looks slightly dry near the end I add a small splash of broth and cover again. I also recommend letting the bake rest before serving so the rice firms up nicely.

Ways to Serve

I like serving Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake straight from the oven with warm pita bread on the side. It also pairs well with a fresh cucumber tomato salad for a lighter plate. For gatherings I set out extra tzatziki lemon wedges and herbs so everyone can customize their portion.

Storage Instructions

After cooling I store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors hold up well and reheat nicely in the microwave or oven. For meal prep I portion servings ahead of time which makes quick lunches or dinners easy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake be made ahead of time?

Yes I often assemble it earlier in the day and bake when ready.

Can I use brown rice for Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake?

Yes but it requires extra liquid and longer baking time.

Is Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake good for meal prep?

Absolutely it stores and reheats very well.

Can I add other vegetables to Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake?

Yes peppers spinach or olives work great.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake a try and make it part of your regular meal rotation. It is simple satisfying and easy to adapt to your taste. Save it share it and let me know how it turns out for you.

Happy Cooking!