This dump and bake chicken with tzatziki rice is a simple and tasty meal! Just toss everything together and let the oven do the work while you relax.
The creamy tzatziki rice adds a nice twist to the juicy chicken. I love how I can prep it all in one dish—fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy dinner, right?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use boneless, skinless breasts or thighs. Thighs add more flavor and tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe. If you have brown rice, that’s fine too, but it will take longer to cook. Quinoa is another great substitute if you want a gluten-free option!
Spices: Turmeric and cumin are key for flavor. If you don’t have turmeric, a little extra cumin or curry powder can substitute. For oregano, fresh is always better, but dried will do the job!
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish from getting too salty. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian dish or even water in a pinch, but it may lack some depth.
Greek Yogurt: This is essential for tzatziki sauce. You could swap it with regular yogurt or even sour cream if you prefer a tangier taste. Vegan yogurt also works for a dairy-free option!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Rice and Chicken Together?
The beauty of this recipe is how everything cooks together in one dish, making it easy! Start by mixing the dry ingredients first so the spices evenly coat the rice and chicken.
- Combine rice, sliced onion, garlic, and spices in a baking dish. This method ensures each grain of rice absorbs those tasty flavors.
- Add the chicken on top without mixing it into the rice. This helps the chicken stay juicy as it cooks.
- Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil during baking to trap in steam. This keeps the rice moist and fluffy!
After baking, gently fluff the rice with a fork instead of stirring, which prevents it from becoming mushy. Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh if available)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and squeezed to remove excess moisture
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to bake. So, you can have a hearty dish ready in about an hour! Plus, most of the work is just throwing everything into one pan—so you can kick back while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your delicious meal!
2. Mix the Rice and Spices:
In a large baking dish, combine the rinsed rice, sliced onion, minced garlic, ground turmeric, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so that all the spices coat the rice evenly.
3. Add the Chicken:
Sprinkle the bite-sized chicken pieces over the rice mixture. Try not to stir it too much; just lay them on top so they can bake perfectly.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Carefully pour the chicken broth over everything in the dish, making sure it covers the rice and chicken evenly. This will cook the rice and keep the chicken juicy.
5. Add the Final Touches:
Drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the mixture. Finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest to add a burst of flavor!
6. Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While everything is baking, it’s time to whip up the tzatziki sauce! In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and taste; adjust the seasoning if needed!
8. Fluff the Rice:
Once the chicken and rice are done baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to combine it with the chicken.
9. Serve it Up:
You can now dollop the tzatziki sauce over the chicken and rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
10. Enjoy!
Dig into your easy, flavorful dump and bake chicken with creamy tzatziki rice. Enjoy the wonderful blend of spices and refreshing sauce. This dish is sure to become a go-to favorite!
This one-pan meal perfectly balances warm spices and fresh ingredients, making it comforting yet vibrant. The lemon and herbs really brighten up the chicken and rice, creating a delightful feast!
FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Rice?
Yes! While long-grain white rice is ideal, you can substitute it with brown rice or even quinoa. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; brown rice may take about 10-15 minutes longer to cook.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and tzatziki rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the tzatziki sauce a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. This will allow the flavors to meld even more!
What’s a Good Side Dish to Serve with This Meal?
This dish is quite hearty, but if you’d like a side, consider a simple Greek salad or some roasted vegetables. They’ll complement the meal beautifully!
