Description
Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
Enjoy Mediterranean flavors with this incredibly easy dump-and-bake recipe. A creamy, garlicky tzatziki sauce tops tender chicken baked with rice, warm spices, and zucchini—all in one dish! Perfect for busy weeknights when you want maximum flavor with minimal prep. Pair it with fresh herbs, pita bread, and extra toppings for a complete, vibrant meal.
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp fresh oregano, chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp cumin, ¼ tsp turmeric, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
1 cup long grain white rice
1 medium zucchini, grated
2 cups chicken broth
Directions:
1. Marinate chicken with herbs, lemon, oil, and spices for 30 mins.
2. Add rice, zucchini, and broth.
3. Cover and bake at 375°F for 40 mins.
4. Serve with tzatziki sauce.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 384 kcal
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time.
- Prep the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and let it marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the marinated chicken and all its juices into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it into an even layer. Add the uncooked rice and grated zucchini directly on top of the chicken. Pour the chicken broth evenly over everything.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Do not peek during baking to ensure the steam cooks the rice properly.
- Rest and Serve: After 40 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let it sit, still covered, for 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish absorbing any residual liquid. Fluff gently with a fork, then top generously with tzatziki sauce before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Transform this one-dish wonder into a complete Mediterranean feast. Serve with warm pita bread or naan for scooping. A side salad of chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and kalamata olives with a lemon-oregano vinaigrette adds freshness. For extra toppings, set out crumbled feta cheese, extra chopped dill or parsley, and lemon wedges.
How-to Summary
Marinate diced chicken with herbs, spices, lemon, and oil. Combine in a baking dish with rice, grated zucchini, and broth. Cover and bake at 375°F for 40 minutes. Let rest, then top with tzatziki sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and will yield even juicier results. The baking time remains the same.
My rice is still hard after baking. What happened? This usually means the dish wasn’t covered tightly enough, allowing steam to escape. Ensure your foil seal is secure. If rice is undercooked, add a few tablespoons of broth, re-cover, and bake for another 5-10 minutes.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can assemble the entire dish (through step 2) up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking, as a cold dish will increase the required baking time.
What can I use instead of zucchini? Grated carrot, diced bell peppers, or frozen peas (added in the last 10 minutes of baking) are excellent alternatives.
Is there a substitute for tzatziki? For a lighter option, use plain Greek yogurt mixed with a squeeze of lemon, garlic, and chopped dill. A dollop of hummus also pairs nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Marinating: Skipping the 30-minute marinate time will result in less flavorful chicken.
- Peeking During Baking: Lifting the foil releases crucial steam needed to cook the rice. Trust the process.
- Using Instant Rice: This recipe requires long-grain white rice (like Jasmine or Basmati) for the correct liquid absorption and texture.
- Overcrowding the Dish: Use a large enough baking dish (9×13 inches) so ingredients cook evenly. A smaller dish will steam rather than bake properly.
Conclusion
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is the ultimate solution for a flavorful, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. By combining protein, grains, and vegetables in one dish, it delivers the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean with incredible ease. Mastering the simple techniques of a good marinade and a tight seal during baking guarantees perfect, fluffy rice and tender chicken every time. It’s a reliable recipe that will quickly become a cherished part of your weekly dinner rotation.