Description
There’s something incredibly comforting about a one-pan meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a game-changer for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, healthy, and packed with Mediterranean flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with creamy, garlicky tzatziki sauce, baked alongside fluffy, seasoned rice—all in one dish. This meal brings together the refreshing taste of tzatziki with the warmth of a baked casserole, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Plus, there’s no need for pre-cooking, marinating, or extra pans. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
If you love Mediterranean cuisine but want something easy and fuss-free, this dish is for you. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Greek-inspired flavors while keeping things simple and mess-free.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of ½ lemon
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 small cucumber (grated and excess water squeezed out)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried dill or fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Diced cucumbers and tomatoes
- Crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Assemble the Dish
In the baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together so the rice is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken pieces and season them with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Scatter the chicken evenly over the rice mixture, then squeeze the lemon juice on top.
Step 4: Bake Until Tender
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked. If the rice still has too much liquid, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the excess moisture evaporates.
Step 5: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
While the chicken and rice bake, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, dried dill, and olive oil. Stir well, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Once the chicken and rice are done, let them sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Drizzle the homemade tzatziki sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, or crumbled feta cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!
Notes
- Rice Consistency: If the rice isn’t fully cooked after the recommended baking time, simply cover the dish again and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until tender.
- Broth Substitutes: You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a slightly different flavor.
- Tzatziki Sauce Variations: Traditional tzatziki includes fresh dill, but if you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with parsley or leave it out.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce for a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Make it a Complete Meal: Serve with a simple Greek salad or warm pita bread for a well-rounded dinner.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store portions in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- Extra Protein: If you want a higher-protein meal, you can add chickpeas or an extra serving of chicken.