This Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Recipe brings all the flavors together with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy tzatziki. It’s a breeze to make—just mix everything and pop it in the oven!
Why fuss when you can just dump? I love how the tzatziki adds a cool twist, making it perfect for sunny days. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, so fewer dishes to wash! Who doesn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Basmati Rice: Basmati rice adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the dish. If you don’t have it, you can swap it with jasmine rice or even long-grain white rice. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary.
Chicken Breast: This recipe works great with boneless skinless chicken breasts, but you can use thighs for a juicier option. For a vegetarian twist, try chickpeas or a textured vegetable protein to soak up those wonderful flavors.
Greek Yogurt: The base for tzatziki, Greek yogurt is thick and creamy. If you want a lighter version, use regular yogurt or dairy-free yogurt. It still tastes delicious!
Cucumber: Cucumber gives tzatziki its refreshing crunch. An English cucumber works best since it has fewer seeds. You could also use zucchini in a pinch, but drain it well!
How Do I Ensure the Rice is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking rice perfectly is key in this baked dish. Here are the steps to ensure success:
- Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch for fluffy rice.
- Use the right broth amount. The liquid should be enough to cook the rice but not too much to make it mushy. Three cups should be perfect with two cups of rice.
- Cover tightly with foil before baking to trap steam—this keeps the rice moist.
- After baking, let it sit for a few minutes before fluffing to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice.
By following these tips, you’ll have tender, flavorful rice every time! Enjoy your hassle-free meal with delightful tzatziki on top!
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Dish:
- 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Lemon wedges for garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and approximately 45 minutes for baking. So, in total, plan for about 55 minutes before you can dive into this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be hot and ready to cook your meal quickly!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rinsed basmati rice, sliced onion, minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together to evenly distribute the spices.
3. Add Chicken:
Next, throw in the bite-sized chicken pieces. Toss everything gently to coat the chicken with the tasty rice mixture.
4. Flavor it Up:
Drizzle in the olive oil and lemon juice, then give it another gentle toss. This will add extra flavor to your dish!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the chicken broth into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Carefully dump the rice and chicken mixture on top. Don’t stir it just yet—let the broth and rice mingle together as they bake!
6. Bake:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake it for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the dish is baking, let’s whip up the tzatziki sauce! In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix it well and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
8. Fluff and Serve:
Once baked, remove the foil and fluff the rice lightly with a fork. Serve generous portions topped with dollops of tzatziki sauce, and watch it hit the table!
9. Garnish:
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and lemon wedges for that extra zing! Pair your dish with warm pita bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy this simple and flavorful dish that beautifully combines rich textures and delightful tastes, perfect for any day of the week!
FAQ for Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Basmati Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it requires a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time. Use 4 cups of chicken broth and increase the baking time to about 1 hour, covered, until the rice is tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
For a gluten-free version, simply ensure that your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go!
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Tzatziki sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits!
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This dish is lovely on its own, but you can enhance your meal with sides like a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread for a delightful Mediterranean feast!
