Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

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Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice – a flavorful one-pan dinner recipe.
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why make this recipe

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice is a simple and tasty dish that brings the flavors of Greece to your table. It is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe is packed with protein, vegetables, and grains, offering a well-rounded meal for the whole family. Plus, the combination of spices and fresh ingredients results in a delicious flavor that everyone will love.

how to make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

Ingredients :

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s brand)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions :

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the diced chicken, parsley, thyme, grated zucchini, uncooked rice, chicken broth, olive oil, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, turmeric, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
  3. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
  6. Serve warm.
Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

how to serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

You can serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice right from the baking dish. It pairs well with a side of fresh salad, pita bread, or even additional tzatziki sauce for dipping. This dish makes a lovely meal for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

how to store Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before enjoying again.

tips to make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs are a good substitute if fresh isn’t available.
  • Feel free to switch up the vegetables by adding bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • To make it creamier, stir in a little Greek yogurt just before serving, mimicking the classic tzatziki sauce.

variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by using different proteins like shrimp or tofu, or substitute quinoa for rice for a gluten-free option. Adding feta cheese before serving can enhance the Greek flavor profile even more.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts since brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for planned meals.

Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, you can definitely add more vegetables to this dish. Just be mindful of the moisture content as some veggies release more water during cooking.

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

A simple, tasty dish that brings the flavors of Greece to your table with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Greek
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes Use fresh for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme Use fresh for the best flavor.
  • 1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano or 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Use fresh for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s brand)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the diced chicken, parsley, thyme, grated zucchini, uncooked rice, chicken broth, olive oil, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, turmeric, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
  • Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Cooking

  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
  • Serve warm.

Notes

This dish pairs well with a side of fresh salad, pita bread, or tzatziki sauce for dipping. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried can substitute. Add bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition, and stir in Greek yogurt before serving for creaminess.
Keyword Chicken Tzatziki, Dump-and-Bake, Easy Dinner, family-friendly, One-Pot Meal