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Looking for a fuss-free dinner that's packed with flavor? This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice is your answer. This dish combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and Mediterranean seasonings, all cooked together in one pan. The grated zucchini adds moisture and extra veggies, while fresh and dried herbs give it an authentic Greek restaurant taste. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal requires minimal prep—just marinate the chicken while the oven preheats, dump everything in a pan, and let it bake. Top it with cooling tzatziki sauce and fresh herbs for a complete meal that feels special but requires very little effort.
This recipe has become a favorite in my household for its simplicity and delicious results. The way the chicken marinates as it bakes, releasing its flavors into the rice below, creates a dish that's both aromatic and satisfying. It's a complete experience that brings a touch of Greece to your dinner table.
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken: Choose uniformly-sized breasts or thighs about 6-8 ounces each. Look for meat with a pink color and no dark spots. If using breasts, choose pieces of even thickness or gently pound them.
- Rice: Long-grain white rice is crucial here—its structure allows it to absorb liquid while maintaining distinct grains. Look for rice that appears translucent rather than chalky.
- Spices: Fresh, aromatic spices make all the difference. Toast whole spices and grind them yourself when possible, especially the cumin and smoked paprika, which provide the foundation flavors.
Marination Process
- Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels. Combine lemon juice and olive oil first. Add herbs and spices to the liquid mixture and whisk until the spices are evenly distributed. Pour the marinade over the chicken in a shallow dish, turning the pieces to coat evenly. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. During this time, prepare the other ingredients.
The Perfect Rice Foundation
- Rinse the rice until the water runs almost clear. Drain the rice thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer. Spread the rice evenly in a baking dish. Add grated zucchini if using. Pour warm broth around the edges and season the broth layer with a pinch of salt. Ensure the rice is submerged completely and create slight wells for chicken placement.
Assembly and Baking Process
- Position the oven rack in the middle and preheat the oven thoroughly to 350°F. Place the marinated chicken pieces over the rice, spacing them evenly for consistent cooking. Pour the remaining marinade over the top. Cover tightly with a double layer of foil, creating a complete seal around the edges. Place the dish on a baking sheet for stability.
The Final Stages
- Check the chicken at 35 minutes. The rice should be almost tender, and the temperature should reach 165°F. Let it rest covered for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, add tzatziki in dollops, and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with extra sauce on the side.
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Cooking Tips
- Warm Your Broth: Warm your broth slightly before adding to reduce cooking time.
- Create Indentations: Create slight indentations in the rice for chicken placement.
- Room Temperature Tzatziki: Let tzatziki come to room temperature before serving for better flavor melding.
This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice recipe is a complete experience that brings a touch of Greece to your dinner table. With its tender chicken, flavorful rice, and cooling tzatziki sauce, it's a meal that's sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
- Boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs are recommended for this recipe.
- → Can I use a different type of rice?
- Only long grain white rice is recommended for this recipe.
- → How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, and use gluten-free chicken broth if needed.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
- Serve with a side of pita bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- → How long does this recipe take to prepare?
- It takes about 30 minutes to prep and 40 minutes to cook, totaling 1 hour and 10 minutes.