This Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice is a breeze to make! Just toss everything in one dish, and let the oven do the work while your kitchen fills with yummy smells.
The tzatziki rice is a cool twist that makes this meal feel special. I love pairing it with a fresh salad for a nice crunch. Trust me, you’ll feel like a chef without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Long-Grain White Rice: Basmati or jasmine rice are great options. If you prefer brown rice for a healthier choice, just remember to increase the cooking time and liquid amount because brown rice takes longer to cook.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well here. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, chicken breasts are best, but thighs add more flavor. Tofu or chickpeas can be a fantastic vegetarian substitute.
Broth: Chicken broth enriches the flavor, but feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. For a lighter option, low-sodium broth keeps the dish flavorful without being too salty.
Spices: The combination of turmeric, cumin, and oregano creates a nice blend. You can swap cumin for coriander if you like a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary could also add a lovely touch.
How Do You Get Perfectly Fluffy Rice?
To achieve fluffy rice, rinse it under cold water until the water is clear. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy. Here’s how to make sure your rice turns out just right:
- Use a baking dish that allows for even cooking, at least 9×13 inches.
- Spread the rinsed rice evenly before adding your other ingredients.
- When you add chicken broth, pour it carefully to avoid disturbing the rice and seasonings.
- Cover tightly with foil when baking to trap steam—not only does this help cook the rice, but it keeps the chicken juicy too.
By following these steps, your rice will be light, fluffy, and absorbing all those wonderful flavors!
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Dish Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 ½ cups chicken broth or stock
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus more lemon wedges for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
- 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?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare everything, and then it takes about 1 hour to bake. So in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook your chicken and rice perfectly!
2. Prep the Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice from becoming mushy. Set the rinsed rice aside.
3. Season the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your chicken pieces, olive oil, turmeric, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss it all together until the chicken is nicely coated with the seasonings.
4. Assemble in the Baking Dish:
In a large baking dish (at least 9×13 inches), spread the rinsed rice evenly along the bottom. Then scatter the sliced onions and minced garlic evenly over the rice.
5. Add Chicken and Broth:
Now, place the seasoned chicken pieces over the rice and onions. Carefully pour the chicken broth over everything to keep the rice from washing away the seasonings. Finally, lay the lemon slices on top for added brightness.
6. Bake it Up:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, uncovered, until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
7. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While your chicken and rice are baking, it’s time to whip up the tzatziki sauce! In a small bowl, squeeze out excess moisture from the grated cucumber. Then mix the cucumber with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
8. Finish and Serve:
Once the chicken and rice are done, gently fluff the rice with a fork. Serve the chicken and rice on plates, topped with dollops of the tzatziki sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges if you like. Enjoy with pita bread and a fresh vegetable salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy one-pan dinner with creamy, refreshing tzatziki rice!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes! If you prefer brown rice, just remember it takes longer to cook. You’ll want to increase the baking time by about 15-20 minutes and add an additional ½ cup of broth to ensure it cooks through properly.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Tzatziki Sauce?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt, but drain it through a cheesecloth or coffee filter to remove excess liquid for a thicker consistency. Alternatively, sour cream works well too!
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken and Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or heat it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning mix. For a fresh kick, you can also serve the dish with sliced jalapeños on the side.
