Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy cooking. If you prefer, thighs can work too—they’re juicier! Just adjust the cooking time a bit, as they may take slightly longer to cook.

Rice: Long grain white rice is my go-to for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, brown rice is an excellent substitute, but you’ll need to increase the baking time and add a bit more liquid.

Turmeric: This gives the rice its lovely color and flavor. If you don’t have turmeric, a bit of curry powder can be a nice alternative. Just be aware it may change the flavor a tad!

Chicken Broth: I prefer low-sodium broth so that I can control the saltiness of the dish. Vegetable broth is a great plant-based option if you’re aiming to keep it lighter.

Greek Yogurt: For tzatziki, full-fat Greek yogurt adds richness. You can use regular yogurt, but it won’t be quite as creamy. Dairy-free yogurt or even tahini would work for a non-dairy version.

How Do I Ensure the Rice Cooks Perfectly?

Getting the rice just right is crucial in this dish. Here’s how to make sure it turns out fluffy and delicious:

• After mixing the rice with the spices, be sure to add enough liquid. The rice should be fully submerged in the broth.
• Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam, which helps the rice cook evenly.
• Let the dish sit for five minutes after baking. This allows the rice to absorb any leftover liquid.
• Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving—it makes a big difference!

By following these steps, your rice will come out perfectly every time!

Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken and Rice:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 ½ cups long grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 3 ½ cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Fresh parsley or oregano, chopped for garnish

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (full fat or 2%)
• ½ English cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 45 minutes to bake, making it a quick and effortless meal. Plus, you let it rest for 5 minutes after baking—perfect for setting those flavors!

Easy Steps to Create This Delicious Dish:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when the time comes to bake!

2. Mix the Base:

In a large baking dish, stir together the rinsed rice, sliced onion, minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed. It smells great already!

3. Add Chicken and Oil:

Now, toss the bite-sized chicken pieces into the rice mixture. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top and mix everything together until the chicken and rice are coated in those yummy spices.

4. Pour in Broth and Lemon:

Next, pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Give it a gentle stir to combine, ensuring that the rice is submerged under the liquid. This is key for perfect cooking!

5. Cover and Bake:

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender. Your patience will be rewarded!

6. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:

While the chicken and rice are baking, mix up the tzatziki sauce! In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then pop it in the fridge to keep it cool.

7. Finishing Touches:

Once the dish is baked, take it out and let it rest for 5 minutes (keep it covered). This helps everyone relax a bit. Then fluff the rice with a fork!

8. Garnish and Serve:

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or oregano and some lemon slices for a pop of freshness and color. Serve it warm with dollops of the chilled tzatziki sauce on top for that refreshing touch!

This dish is packed with flavor, and the tzatziki adds a cool and creamy finish. Enjoy every bite of this simple yet delightful meal! 😊

FAQ for Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice

Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid slightly. Brown rice typically requires about 50-60 minutes of baking, so check for doneness and add more broth if necessary!

What if I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt for the Tzatziki Sauce?

No worries! You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt or even use sour cream for a different twist. For a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or tahini mixed with a bit of water to thin it out.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the rice seems dry.

Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything in the baking dish without baking it and cover it with foil. Just refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then bake as directed!