This Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice is a fun and tasty dish! You simply mix everything together in a pan and let the oven do the work. The chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
I love how the cool tzatziki adds a yummy touch to the rice. Plus, it’s a great meal for busy nights when you want something delicious without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can choose chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even use turkey for a leaner option.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works well because it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors nicely. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, brown rice can be used, but remember to adjust the cooking time, as it needs more liquid and longer cooking.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is a great base for flavor without extra salt. Vegetable broth or homemade broth can also work for a lighter taste. Water can substitute in a pinch, but it won’t add as much flavor.
Tzatziki Sauce: Greek yogurt gives tzatziki its creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, use regular yogurt. You can also swap out dill for mint if you like a fresher taste.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Juicy Chicken?
Cooking chicken in one dish means less fuss. To keep it juicy, make sure not to overbake. Covering the dish with foil traps moisture during the first phase. The final uncovered bake helps lightly crisp the top without drying it out. Here are some tips:
- Cut chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Let it rest a few minutes after baking to keep the juices in.
How Can You Make Creamy Tzatziki Sauce Perfectly?
Preparing tzatziki sauce is easy, but a few steps can enhance its flavor. First, squeeze out excess water from the grated cucumber; this keeps the sauce thick. Allow flavors to meld in the fridge while your main dish cooks. Mixing fresh herbs into the yogurt adds freshness:
- Combine all ingredients and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Cover and chill while preparing the chicken and rice.
Get ready for a delicious meal that’s a breeze to prepare!
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 1 1/2 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded and finely grated
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 50 minutes in the oven. You’ll spend a little time mixing the ingredients and letting the oven do all the cooking. It’s a simple and delicious way to get dinner on the table with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure everything cooks evenly once you put it in.
2. Mix the Chicken and Spices:
In a large mixing bowl or a 9×13 inch oven-safe casserole dish, add the olive oil, turmeric, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture until they are well coated with the spices. This adds a lot of flavor!
3. Combine Rice and Vegetables:
Next, add the rinsed rice, sliced onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth to the chicken in the dish. Stir everything gently to combine, making sure that the rice is submerged in the broth. This helps the rice cook properly.
4. Add Lemon Slices:
Now, arrange the thin lemon slices on top of the chicken and rice mixture. This will infuse a lovely citrus flavor into the dish as it bakes.
5. Bake Covered:
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. This will help steam the chicken and cook the rice.
6. Bake Uncovered:
After 40 minutes, remove the foil or lid and let it bake uncovered for another 10 minutes. This will allow the top to get a nice golden brown and any extra liquid to evaporate.
7. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
While your dish is baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir it well and put it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
8. Fluff and Serve:
Once the chicken and rice are done baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Then, serve the chicken and rice on plates with dollops of the tzatziki sauce on top.
9. Garnish:
Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro over the top for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious and easy meal!
Bon appétit! This dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Rice?
Yes, you can use other types of rice, but keep in mind that different varieties have different cooking times. Brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Jasmine or basmati rice will work as well, but make sure to check the package instructions for the correct liquid ratios and cooking times.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Tzatziki Sauce?
If you’re looking for a substitute for Greek yogurt, you can use regular plain yogurt or sour cream. Just note that using regular yogurt may make the tzatziki slightly thinner, so consider draining it through a cheesecloth to thicken it up. Non-dairy yogurt can also be used for a vegan option.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, heat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. The tzatziki sauce can also be stored separately in the fridge for the same amount of time.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and rice mixture in advance and assemble everything in the casserole dish. Cover it and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
