This Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice is a super simple one-pan dinner. You just toss everything together and let the oven do the work!
I love how the creamy tzatziki flavor makes the rice so tasty. It’s great for busy nights when you want something delicious with no fuss. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal with just one pan to clean? 🙌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a breeze in this dish. If you’re in a pinch, you can use thighs for a juicier option. Just adjust cooking time as they may need a bit longer.
Rice: Long grain rice gives nice texture. If you have brown rice, you can use that, but cook it a little longer since it needs more time to become tender.
Tzatziki Sauce: Store-bought tzatziki is quick and easy, but homemade is great too! If you’re dairy-free, try cashew cream blended with cucumber, garlic, and a splash of lemon.
Lemon: Fresh lemon enhances flavor, but if you don’t have any, a splash of vinegar can work in a pinch. Just reduce the amount to avoid overwhelming tanginess.
How Do I Ensure My Rice Cooks Perfectly?
The trick to perfectly cooked rice is in the liquid ratio and cover. Make sure to add enough chicken broth or water to the rice—2 cups is just right for 1 cup of rice. When baking, cover the dish tightly with foil so that the steam gets trapped, which helps cook the rice evenly.
- Layer the rice first, then add the broth. This way, the rice absorbs flavors well.
- Check the liquid level after 30 minutes; if it seems dry, add a splash more broth.
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time, making the total time around 50-55 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly when you place it in the oven.
2. Prepare the Rice Base:
In a large baking dish, pour the uncooked rice and spread it evenly across the bottom. This will be the base for your chicken and add texture to the dish.
3. Season the Rice:
Add the minced garlic and dried oregano to the rice, mixing them in gently. Pour the chicken broth over the rice and drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste, giving it a good mix.
4. Add the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the chicken, and sprinkle salt, pepper, and lemon zest to add flavor.
5. Include the Tzatziki:
Spoon half of the tzatziki sauce evenly over the chicken breasts. This will infuse a delicious flavor into the chicken while it bakes.
6. Bake the Dish:
Cover the dish tightly with foil to keep the steam inside. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (reaches 165°F) and the rice is tender.
7. Final Touches:
Once done, carefully lift the foil to avoid steam burns. Drizzle the lemon juice and the remaining tzatziki sauce over the chicken and rice for extra zest.
8. Add Some Green:
If desired, garnish with fresh dill or parsley to give your dish a vibrant look and extra flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm, mixing the rice and chicken together to enjoy the creamy, tangy tzatziki flavor in every delicious bite. You’ll love how easy this dinner comes together!
FAQ for Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can definitely use brown rice! However, brown rice takes longer to cook, so increase the baking time to about 50-60 minutes. You may also need to add a bit more liquid.
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a juicier texture to your dish. Just keep an eye on cooking time; it may take a few extra minutes for thighs to fully cook through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth to keep the rice from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to cook, bake directly from the fridge, adding a little extra baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
