Description
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a one-pan Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both delicious and effortless. With juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy tzatziki sauce, this dish will become a weeknight favorite! No stovetop cooking required—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs) – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice – Uncooked (basmati or jasmine rice works best).
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – To cook the rice and add flavor.
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt – Forms the creamy base of the tzatziki sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and moisture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – For bold flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Classic Mediterranean herb.
- ½ teaspoon dried dill – For a fresh, herby taste.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild kick.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Adds brightness and freshness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – For a tangy punch.
- ½ cup cucumber, finely diced – For a crunchy, refreshing texture.
For Garnish (Optional):
- ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled – Adds a creamy, salty finish.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – For a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon wedges – For extra brightness.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, oregano, dill, salt, pepper, lemon zest, lemon juice, and diced cucumber. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
- Add the chicken pieces to the dish and stir to coat them in the sauce mixture.
Step 3: Bake the Dish
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Use Long-Grain Rice – Short-grain rice can become mushy. Basmati or jasmine rice works best for this dish.
- Cover While Baking – This helps to lock in moisture and ensures the rice cooks evenly.
- Adjust the Seasoning – Taste the sauce before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lemon or salt for extra brightness.
- Try Chicken Thighs – Chicken thighs stay extra juicy when baked and are a great alternative to breasts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean