This Easy Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Recipe is a total time-saver! Just toss chicken, rice, and tzatziki sauce in one dish and let the oven do the magic.
It’s like a flavor party! I love how the zingy tzatziki makes everything taste fresh and exciting. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—my favorite kind of cooking! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You could also use chicken thighs for extra moisture, or even cut-up chicken if you prefer smaller pieces.
Rice: Long grain white rice is a classic choice, but you can substitute with brown rice or basmati. Keep in mind brown rice may need a little more liquid and a longer cooking time!
Tzatziki Sauce: Store-bought tzatziki is handy, but making it fresh is always better if you have time. You can substitute with yogurt mixed with garlic, cucumber, and dill if needed.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic enhance the dish’s flavor. You can use onion powder and garlic powder in a pinch, but I recommend fresh for the best taste!
How Do I Ensure the Rice Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the rice just right can be tricky. The key is to use the right ratio of rice to liquid. For this recipe, 1 ½ cups of rice to 1 ½ cups of chicken broth is spot on.
- Mix the rice and broth well before adding the chicken. This allows the flavors to blend.
- Cover with foil while baking to trap steam, helping the rice cook thoroughly.
- Check for doneness, as oven times may vary. If the rice seems undercooked, let it sit covered for an extra few minutes.
Easy Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 55 minutes total in the oven. So, in less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get your oven nice and hot, helping everything cook evenly. While it’s warming up, grab a large mixing bowl or a 9×13-inch baking dish and combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix and Layer:
Gently stir the mixture in your bowl or dish so that everything blends nicely together. Then, lay the chicken breasts evenly on top of your rice mixture. It’s like building a tasty layer cake, but savory!
3. Add the Star Ingredient:
Now for the tzatziki! Spread it evenly over each chicken breast. This will create a lovely, creamy layer packed with flavor.
4. Cover and Bake:
Take out some aluminum foil and cover your baking dish tightly. This helps keep all the moisture in. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), while the rice becomes tender and fluffy.
5. Finish Up:
After baking, remove the foil and allow your dish to bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes. This will give the chicken and rice a nice light browning on top. Mmm!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take your dish out of the oven and sprinkle fresh dill or parsley on top for that perfect finish. Serve it with lemon wedges for an extra pop of brightness to each bite!
Enjoy your easy, flavorful, one-dish chicken tzatziki rice meal! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
FAQ for Easy Dump And Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Can I Use Different Types of Rice?
Yes, you can! While long grain white rice works best in this recipe, you can substitute it with brown rice or basmati. Just remember, brown rice may need a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time, so keep an eye on it!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the entire dish in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re putting it in the oven straight from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep the rice moist.
Can I Substitute the Tzatziki Sauce?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have tzatziki sauce, try using plain Greek yogurt mixed with chopped cucumber, garlic, and dill for a fresh, homemade substitute. Alternatively, you can also use ranch dressing for a different flavor profile!
