This Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice is a yummy one-pan meal that takes little effort. Juicy chicken sits on flavorful tzatziki rice, making it so simple to whip up!
I love how everything cooks together, which means fewer dishes to wash. 🙌 You’ll feel like a chef without all the fuss! Enjoy it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that extra zing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long-grain white rice like basmati or jasmine works best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a fiber boost, you can swap it with brown rice. Just be mindful that brown rice may need a longer cooking time and more liquid.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect here. For a shortcut, rotisserie chicken can be used. Just add it towards the end of the baking time to heat it through.
Spices: Turmeric and cumin impart wonderful flavors. If you have curry powder on hand, it can be a good substitute for both spices. This will add a different flavor profile but still be delicious!
Tzatziki Sauce Ingredients: Greek yogurt is key for that creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, try using a coconut yogurt alternative. Also, instead of cucumber, you could use grated zucchini for a twist!
How Do I Cook the Chicken and Rice Together Without Drying Them Out?
The key to cooking chicken and rice together is the moisture! Here’s what helps:
- Ensure you cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam.
- Add enough broth (the chicken broth here is perfect) to keep the rice moist.
- Don’t skip on zeroing in on the cooking time. Begin checking at 35 minutes!
After removing the foil, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to let the moisture redistribute. This dish is super forgiving, so don’t be worried if it takes a bit longer; just check for doneness before serving!
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine works well)
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary, thyme)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, finely grated and excess water squeezed out
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let it bake for 35-45 minutes. You can make the tzatziki sauce while the chicken rice is baking, making it a breeze to get everything done quickly. Grab a total of about 1 hour for this easy and satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook everything evenly and thoroughly. While it heats, lightly grease a large 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil so that nothing sticks.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Rice Base:
In your greased baking dish, combine the uncooked jasmine or basmati rice, sliced onion, minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the spices. This mixture will be the flavorful foundation for your meal.
3. Add the Chicken:
Evenly scatter the bite-sized chicken pieces over the rice and spices. Carefully drizzle olive oil on top of it all. Finally, pour in the chicken broth and freshly squeezed lemon juice over everything. Gently stir the ingredients just enough to combine everything without disturbing the rice too much.
4. Bake Covered:
Now it’s time to cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is crucial as it helps to trap moisture and keep the chicken and rice from drying out. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes or until the rice is tender, and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the chicken and rice bake, it’s the perfect time to whip up your tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out any excess water), minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well until it’s all blended. Once done, pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
6. Finish and Garnish:
After baking, carefully remove the foil and fluff the rice gently with a fork. This helps to separate the grains. Spoon generous dollops of tzatziki sauce over the top. To make it look extra special, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices.
7. Serve Warm:
This dish is best enjoyed warm! Serve it alongside a fresh vegetable salad or some warm pita bread. Dive into this wholesome meal that combines flavors beautifully!
Enjoy this comforting, all-in-one meal that’s not only flavorful but super easy to prepare!
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 be aware that it generally requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Use about 3 cups of chicken broth and extend the baking time by an additional 15-20 minutes, checking for doneness.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and rice mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to cook, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time as it will be starting from a cooler temperature.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of broth to add moisture while reheating!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Tzatziki Sauce?
If you need a non-dairy option, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, like coconut or almond yogurt. Make sure it’s unsweetened to maintain the savory flavor of the tzatziki sauce!
