This Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice is a tasty, one-pan meal! You just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and wait for the magic to happen. Easy peasy!
Who doesn’t love a dish that takes hardly any effort? I love how the chicken stays juicy and the rice soaks up all the flavors. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but thighs work well too! They’re juicier and can add a bit more flavor.
Rice: Long grain white rice is perfect here, but you can use brown rice or basmati if you prefer. Just remember that cooking times may change, so check the package instructions.
Tzatziki Sauce: I love using store-bought tzatziki for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs. It’s fresh and delicious!
Onions: Red onions add a nice sweetness. If you’re not a fan, you could use yellow or even green onions for a milder taste.
Herbs: Dried oregano and dill give great flavor. You could use fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Just double the amount since fresh herbs are milder than dried.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure the Rice Cooks Perfectly?
Getting the rice to cook just right can be tricky. Here are some tips to make sure it turns out fluffy and flavorful:
- Rinse the rice well to remove excess starch. This helps prevent it from becoming gummy.
- Using chicken broth instead of water not only cooks the rice but also infuses it with extra flavor, making it delicious.
- Covering the dish tightly with foil creates steam, which helps the rice cook evenly. Make sure it’s sealed properly!
- If using brown rice, increase the bake time to about 55-60 minutes, checking for doneness.
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ cups long grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes to bake, making the total time around 1 hour for a complete meal. It’s quick and perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s hot and ready for your meal.
2. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, tzatziki sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, dill (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Assemble in the Baking Dish:
Pour the rice mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
4. Add the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Season each piece with a little extra salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried oregano if you like.
5. Top with Onions:
Scatter the thinly sliced red onions across the chicken and rice, adding a nice flavor boost.
6. Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps keep everything moist while baking. Bake in the oven for 45–50 minutes. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and that the rice is tender and fluffy.
7. Broil for a Crispy Top (Optional):
If you want a crispy top, remove the foil and broil the dish for another 3-5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
8. Let It Rest:
Once done, let the dish rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle perfectly.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick!
Enjoy your flavorful, easy dump and bake chicken tzatziki rice! It’s a delicious meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before baking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the refrigerator or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. This helps ensure even cooking.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice?
Absolutely! If you prefer brown rice, just note that it will require a longer cooking time. Increase the baking time to about 55-60 minutes and check for doneness. You may also need to add a bit more chicken broth.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it on the stove, adding a splash of broth or a bit of tzatziki sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the rice mixture and assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply extend the cooking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
