Name: Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine), rinsed; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat); 1/2 cup English cucumber, grated and squeezed dry; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice; 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that brings all the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen, then the Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in zesty lemon and oregano, nestled atop perfectly cooked fluffy rice that’s been gently infused with aromatic garlic and bright lemon zest. All of this is crowned with a refreshing, creamy tzatziki sauce bursting with dill, cucumber, and tangy yogurt, plus a sprinkle of salty feta and fresh parsley. This one-pan wonder is not only incredibly flavorful but also simple to make, combining wholesome ingredients that make every bite a celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A bowl contains two types of yellow rice as the base layer, one lighter and one darker, filling most of the space. On top, there are golden brown grilled cubes of paneer scattered across the rice, with fresh green cilantro leaves adding color. Two triangular pieces of naan bread with browned spots rest on the rice near the top of the bowl. A dollop of white yogurt sauce with black seeds and more cilantro is placed towards the left side. A lemon wedge is on the front edge, and a black fork is inside the bowl on the right. In the background, a small white bowl of the same yogurt sauce with lemon wedges sits on a wooden table next to some fresh cilantro, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this dish sing. Each item plays a crucial role—from the boldness of the dried oregano to the creaminess of Greek yogurt, and the brightness of fresh lemon juice. These simple, yet essential components come together harmoniously to create that authentic Mediterranean vibe you’re craving.

1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs: Juicy, flavorful, and ideal for baking without drying out.
2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps with that golden sear on the chicken.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the marinade and cuts through the richness.
1 tsp dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that infuses the chicken with earthy aroma.
1 tsp garlic powder: For subtle depth and warmth in the flavor profile.
1 tsp salt: Essential to enhance all the individual tastes.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the tanginess.
1 cup long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine), rinsed: Provides a fluffy, fragrant base that soaks up all the delicious juices.
1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness that softens during cooking.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts the savory essence in the rice layer.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The cooking liquid that enriches the rice with a delicate savory base.
1 tbsp lemon zest: Gives a fresh punch of citrus aroma that elevates the overall dish.
1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat): The creamy star ingredient for the homemade tzatziki sauce.
1/2 cup English cucumber, grated and squeezed dry: Brings a cool crunch and moisture to the tzatziki.
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Provides vibrant herbal notes essential for authentic tzatziki flavor.
1 tbsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice: Adds necessary acidity to the sauce.
1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Sprinkled on top, it adds salty creaminess and texture contrast.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: A final green flourished garnish to lift the entire dish visually and in taste.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add your chicken thighs and toss them well in this lively marinade, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Letting it sit for 20 minutes lets the zesty, herbaceous flavors soak into the meat, promising every bite to be bursting with Mediterranean sunshine.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While your oven preheats to 375°F (190°C), heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs in the pan and sear them for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step locks in juices and adds mouthwatering color. Remove the chicken to a plate while you move on to the next step.

Step 3: Toast Aromatics and Rice

Using the same skillet with those flavorful chicken drippings, add diced onions and the rinsed rice. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the rice gets lightly toasted and the onions start to soften. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds—watching carefully to avoid burning—so the garlic releases its fragrant aroma.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Lemon Zest

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the lemon zest. Scrape the bottom of the skillet gently with a wooden spoon, loosening any browned bits to deepen the flavor. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; this moist environment helps the rice absorb all the wonderful juices while baking.

Step 5: Bake Everything Together

Nestle the seared chicken thighs right on top of the rice mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil to trap steam, then transfer it to the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F—sure signs your dish is perfectly cooked and ready to eat.

Step 6: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

While the bake rests for 5 minutes after coming out of the oven, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, fresh dill, red wine vinegar (or lemon juice), and a pinch of salt. This cool, creamy tzatziki sauce balances the warm, herb-infused chicken rice bake beautifully, adding freshness and a delightful tang.

Step 7: Final Touches Before Serving

Spoon generous dollops of the luscious tzatziki sauce over the chicken and rice. Then sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley on top. The salty feta and green parsley not only boost flavor but make the dish pop visually so it’s as lovely to look at as it is to eat.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe

The image shows a metal tray filled with three layers. The bottom layer is yellow rice with a fluffy texture, spread evenly across the tray. On the rice are scattered golden-brown grilled chicken pieces with crisp edges. In the middle, there is a dollop of white sauce with a creamy texture, topped with green coriander leaves. Around the sauce, there are three lemon wedges placed on the rice for decoration. The tray is resting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

One of my favorite parts about this dish is how simply putting on extra garnishes turns it into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Fresh dill sprigs, more crumbled feta, a few lemon wedges, or even a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can make all the difference. They add pops of color and fresh bursts of flavor that invite you in for the first bite.

Side Dishes

This one-pan bake is hearty and satisfying but pairs beautifully with light sides to complete the meal. Consider a crisp Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and red onion dressed in lemon and oregano or some warm pita bread perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also complement the meal wonderfully, keeping it bright and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress your guests, try serving this Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe in individual ramekins or shallow bowls, layering the rice and chicken with tzatziki on top for a restaurant-quality presentation. Alternatively, assemble the dish in a bright ceramic baking dish for a rustic family-style meal that encourages sharing and casual fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake stores incredibly well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep textures at their best, it’s smart to store the tzatziki sauce separately and only add it back after reheating—this prevents the sauce from becoming watery and keeps that refreshing mouthfeel intact.

Freezing

If you want to meal prep or save some for later, you can freeze the bake before adding tzatziki. Place it in a freezer-safe container and it will keep for up to 3 months. Freeze the tzatziki sauce separately in a smaller container to preserve its flavor and texture. Thaw everything overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the rice bake gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. After reheating, add your fresh tzatziki sauce and any extra garnishes. This method refreshes the dish and revives all those gorgeous Mediterranean flavors just like when it was freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work too, but they tend to dry out more easily than thighs. To keep them juicy, reduce the baking time slightly and keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt in the tzatziki?

If you’re avoiding dairy, you can use a plant-based yogurt with a thick texture, like coconut or almond yogurt. Just be sure it’s unflavored and unsweetened to maintain the authentic taste of the tzatziki.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! This Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and verify all your spices and ingredients do not contain gluten.

What type of rice is best for this dish?

Long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine rice works best because it stays fluffy and absorbs flavors beautifully while baking. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice for this particular recipe.

Can I prepare the marinade the night before?

Definitely! Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavors even more, making your Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe taste even richer and more delicious with minimal extra effort on the day of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe is a perfect example of a simple but stunning meal that feels special every time you make it. With a one-pan approach that delivers unbeatable flavor, wholesome ingredients, and a lovely balance of warmth and freshness, I truly can’t recommend it enough. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again—trust me, your family and friends will thank you for it!