Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice (Recipe for Printing)
Tender chicken and zingy tzatziki nestle atop seasoned rice for an easy Mediterranean-style comfort meal.
# What You Need:
→ Protein
01 -
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, patted dry
→ Marinade
02 -
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
03 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
04 -
2 teaspoons dried oregano
05 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 -
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
08 -
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
09 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Rice Base
10 -
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
11 -
1 small zucchini, coarsely grated (optional)
12 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, warmed
13 -
pinch of kosher salt
→ Tzatziki and Garnish
14 -
1 cup prepared tzatziki sauce
15 -
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
# How to Make It:
01 -
Combine lemon juice and olive oil in a mixing bowl. Whisk in oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until spices are thoroughly incorporated. Add chicken and turn to coat evenly. Cover and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
02 -
Rinse rice until water runs nearly clear. Drain thoroughly using a fine-mesh strainer. Spread rice evenly across the base of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle zucchini over the rice if using. Pour warmed chicken broth around the edges, and season liquid layer with a pinch of kosher salt. Ensure all rice is submerged and create shallow wells for chicken placement.
03 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange marinated chicken pieces on top of rice, spacing evenly. Drizzle any leftover marinade over chicken. Cover dish tightly with a double layer of foil, sealing completely. Set dish on a rimmed baking sheet for transport stability.
04 -
Transfer dish to oven and bake for 35 minutes. Remove from oven and check that chicken registers 165°F internal temperature and rice is nearly tender.
05 -
Leave covered for 10 minutes to allow rice to steam and finish cooking. Fluff rice gently with a fork. Top with dollops of tzatziki and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve warm with extra sauce on the side.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Create shallow indentations in the rice before adding chicken to ensure even baking.
02 -
Smoked paprika adds the depth and charred flavor typical of grilled meats.
03 -
For optimal flavor, marinate chicken up to 8 hours in advance. Do not combine with rice and liquid until ready to bake.