Name: Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491722H50M43S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked); 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1/3 cup grated cucumber (squeezed to remove excess water); Juice of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

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Introduction

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a simple, flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken and aromatic rice bake together under a creamy tzatziki topping, making for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that requires minimal effort.

A white dish filled with fluffy white rice as the base layer, topped with five pieces of golden-brown grilled chicken scattered evenly across the rice. To one side, there is a creamy sauce with green herbs mixed in, placed in a small heap on the rice. Bright green lime wedges rest next to the sauce, adding a fresh color contrast. The dish is garnished with finely chopped green herbs sprinkled on top of the chicken and rice. The background is a white marbled surface, and the photo was taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/3 cup grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried dill (or 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
Step 2: In the baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth (or water), olive oil, minced garlic, dill, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Step 3: Arrange the chicken pieces evenly over the rice mixture in the baking dish.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and lemon juice to create the tzatziki base.
Step 5: Pour the yogurt mixture evenly over the chicken and rice, spreading gently with the back of a spoon.
Step 6: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Remove the foil, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top if using, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to slightly melt the cheese.
Step 8: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Step 9: Serve warm, ideally with a crisp salad or warm pita bread for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and spices before assembling.
Use brown rice instead of white rice, but increase the baking time and liquid accordingly.
Substitute the plain Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt for a lactose-free version.
Add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the rice mixture for a taste twist.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. Avoid reheating the yogurt topping excessively to prevent separation; you can also add fresh tzatziki on top when serving leftovers.

How to Serve

The dish shows a white bowl filled with a base layer of white cooked rice, fluffy and spread evenly. On top are four grilled chicken breasts with golden brown grill marks and a slightly charred look. Each piece of chicken is covered lightly with a thick, creamy white sauce mixed with green herbs. Bright green chopped parsley is sprinkled over the chicken and rice. Two lemon wedges with vibrant yellow skin and pale yellow flesh sit in the bowl's top corner. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface with some green herbs scattered around, and a patterned cloth lies underneath it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, thaw completely before assembling the casserole.

What can I serve with Chicken Tzatziki and Rice?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, warm pita bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal.