Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice One Pan Magic

Name: Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice One Pan Magic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Ingredients: 1½ pounds (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks; 1½ cups (300 g) long-grain white rice, uncooked; 3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth; 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion (150 g), diced; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried dill; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1½ teaspoons salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice; 1 cup (240 g) plain Greek-style yogurt; 1 cup (130 g) grated cucumber, drained; 1 small clove garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; Salt to taste

Author: Michelle Davis

Published: 11 February 2026

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There are evenings when the idea of cooking feels overwhelming, yet the craving for something wholesome and comforting refuses to fade. This is exactly the kind of moment when a dump-and-bake recipe feels like a small miracle. The Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice One Pan Magic is inspired by the warm, inviting flavors of Mediterranean home cooking, where simple ingredients come together to create deeply satisfying meals.

This dish was born from the desire to enjoy bold Greek-inspired flavors without spending hours in the kitchen or juggling multiple pots and pans. Everything is layered into a single baking dish, slid into the oven, and transformed into a tender, fragrant meal that feels far more special than the effort it requires. It is perfect for busy weeknights, relaxed family dinners, or anytime you want comfort food that still feels fresh and nourishing.

Why This Dump-and-Bake Recipe Works

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There is no need to pre-cook the rice or sear the chicken. As the dish bakes, the rice absorbs the seasoned broth, the chicken becomes juicy and tender, and the flavors gently mingle together. The addition of creamy tzatziki at the end ties everything together with a refreshing, tangy finish that balances the warmth of the baked ingredients.

This recipe is also incredibly forgiving. Even if you are new to cooking, the straightforward steps make it nearly foolproof. The oven does most of the work, and the result is a complete meal with protein, grains, and vibrant flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this dish approachable and pantry-friendly, the ingredient list focuses on simple items that are easy to find while still delivering bold flavor.

Chicken breasts – 1½ pounds (680 g), boneless and skinless, cut into large chunks
Long-grain white rice – 1½ cups (300 g), uncooked
Chicken broth – 3 cups (720 ml), low-sodium preferred
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Onion – 1 medium (about 150 g), finely diced
Dried oregano – 2 teaspoons
Dried dill – 1 teaspoon
Paprika – 1 teaspoon
Salt – 1½ teaspoons, or to taste
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons (30 ml), freshly squeezed
Plain Greek-style yogurt – 1 cup (240 g)
Cucumber – 1 cup (130 g), finely grated and drained
Fresh dill – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
Garlic (for tzatziki) – 1 small clove, finely minced

Every ingredient has a purpose, from the aromatic spices that season the rice to the cooling yogurt sauce that brings contrast and brightness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Starting with a properly heated oven ensures the rice begins cooking evenly as soon as the dish goes in. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with about 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of olive oil or use a light coating of cooking spray. This small step prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom and edges, making both serving and cleanup much easier.

Using the correct size dish is important. A pan that is too small may cause uneven cooking, while a larger one can dry out the rice. A standard 9×13-inch dish creates the perfect depth for the rice to absorb the liquid while the chicken cooks gently on top.

2. Layer the Rice and Aromatics

Spread 1½ cups (300 g) of uncooked long-grain white rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure the rice is distributed in a smooth, level layer. This helps it cook uniformly and prevents clumping.

Next, sprinkle the diced medium onion (about 150 g) and 4 cloves of minced garlic evenly over the rice. Distributing the aromatics throughout the dish ensures that every bite is infused with flavor. As the dish bakes, the onion softens and becomes slightly sweet, while the garlic mellows and blends into the savory base of the rice.

3. Add the Seasonings and Broth

Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil evenly over the rice and aromatics. This adds richness and helps keep the grains tender. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried dill, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1½ teaspoons salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Try to distribute the spices evenly rather than piling them in one spot.

Slowly pour 3 cups (720 ml) of chicken broth over the entire mixture. Pouring gently helps prevent the rice from shifting too much. Use a spoon to lightly stir everything together just enough to ensure the rice is submerged and the seasonings are dispersed. Proper liquid coverage is essential for evenly cooked, fluffy rice.

4. Add the Chicken

Take 1½ pounds (680 g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts that have been cut into large chunks. Nestle the chicken pieces into the rice mixture, spacing them evenly across the dish. Press each piece down gently so it is partially submerged in the liquid.

Partially covering the chicken allows it to stay moist and tender as it bakes. The juices from the chicken will also seep into the rice as it cooks, adding extra flavor and richness to the entire dish.

5. Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Make sure the foil is sealed well around the edges to trap steam inside. Steam is what helps cook the rice properly and keeps the chicken juicy.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. During this time, the rice absorbs the broth, the aromatics soften, and the chicken cooks gently. Avoid lifting the foil while baking, as this releases steam and can disrupt the cooking process.

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6. Uncover and Finish Baking

After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. The rice should be mostly tender and the liquid largely absorbed. Return the dish to the oven uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes. This allows any remaining moisture to evaporate slightly and helps the top develop a light golden finish.

Check that the chicken is fully cooked and that the rice is soft. If the rice needs a bit more time, add 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 ml) of warm broth, cover loosely, and bake for a few more minutes.

7. Make the Tzatziki

While the dish completes its final bake, prepare the fresh tzatziki. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup (240 g) plain Greek-style yogurt, 1 cup (130 g) grated and well-drained cucumber, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice, 1 small clove minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill. Stir until smooth and creamy. Season lightly with salt to taste.

8. Serve

Once the baking dish is out of the oven, allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the rice finish absorbing any remaining liquid. Spoon the chicken and rice onto plates and top with generous dollops of tzatziki, or serve the sauce on the side for individual portions.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with lemon dressing, roasted vegetables, or warm flatbread-style sides complement the creamy, herby flavors perfectly. Leftovers reheat well, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of rice in this recipe?

Yes, but adjustments are necessary. Long-grain white rice works best because it cooks evenly and absorbs liquid at a predictable rate. If you choose brown rice, you will need to increase the broth to about 3½ cups (840 ml) and extend the covered baking time by 15–20 minutes. Keep in mind that different rice varieties absorb liquid differently, so checking for doneness before serving is important. Short-grain rice can become overly soft in this dish, which may affect the final texture.

2. How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy or undercooked?

The key is maintaining the correct liquid-to-rice ratio and ensuring the dish is tightly covered during the initial bake. Escaping steam can cause uneven cooking. If the rice is still slightly firm after uncovering, add a few tablespoons of warm broth, cover loosely, and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Letting the dish rest after baking also helps the rice finish absorbing any remaining liquid.

3. Can this recipe be prepared ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When baking from cold, add an extra 5–10 minutes to the covered baking time. The tzatziki can also be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which actually allows the flavors to meld even more beautifully.

4. Is this dish suitable for meal prep and leftovers?

This recipe is excellent for meal prep. Once cooled, store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a tablespoon of water or broth to keep the rice moist. Store the tzatziki separately and add it fresh after reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice One Pan Magic is a reminder that cooking does not have to be complicated to be deeply rewarding. With minimal preparation and a single baking dish, this recipe delivers layers of flavor that feel both comforting and refreshing. The tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and creamy tzatziki come together in a way that feels balanced and nourishing, making it a dish you can return to again and again.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its flexibility. It adapts easily to different schedules, skill levels, and personal preferences. Whether you are feeding a busy household, planning meals ahead for the week, or simply looking for a reliable dinner that never disappoints, this dish fits seamlessly into everyday life. The Mediterranean-inspired flavors offer a sense of warmth and familiarity while still feeling special enough to serve to guests.

In a world where time is often limited, recipes like this provide a sense of ease and confidence in the kitchen. They remind us that a satisfying home-cooked meal is always within reach, even on the busiest days. Once you try this one-pan wonder, it is likely to become a regular part of your dinner rotation, not just for its convenience, but for the comfort and joy it brings to the table.