Description
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice recipe offers a simple and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender, seasoned chicken breasts bake atop a bed of fragrant long-grain rice infused with chicken broth, all topped with creamy tzatziki sauce. Garnished with fresh cucumber, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon, this dish combines Greek-inspired flavors for a wholesome and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Main Components
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnishes
- Diced cucumbers
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the optimal temperature for baking the chicken and rice evenly.
- Prepare Rice Base: Evenly spread the uncooked rice in a 9×13-inch baking dish, then pour the chicken broth over the rice to hydrate it during baking.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken breasts for flavorful results.
- Assemble Dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts atop the rice in the baking dish. Spoon the tzatziki sauce evenly over each piece of chicken to keep them moist and infuse them with creamy Greek flavor.
- Initial Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. This steams the chicken and rice to tender perfection.
- Final Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown slightly and ensure it is fully cooked through, and the rice is tender.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with diced cucumbers, freshly chopped parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and added freshness.
Notes
- Use chicken broth for richer flavor; water can be substituted if preferred.
- For a homemade tzatziki, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, dill, and olive oil.
- Adjust seasoning quantities based on personal taste preferences.
- Ensure the baking dish is covered tightly to prevent moisture loss and keep the chicken juicy.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and are best eaten within 2 days.
