Name: Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-size pieces; 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice; 1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups); 2 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or ½ teaspoon dried); 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or ½ teaspoon dried); 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried)

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice is a Mediterranean-inspired, one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of herbs and spices. The dish is topped with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, making it a perfect choice for a flavorful and fuss-free dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean in a single dish. The chicken marinates as it bakes, infusing the rice with rich flavors. The addition of grated zucchini adds moisture and a subtle vegetable presence, while the tzatziki sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the warm spices. It’s an easy, healthy, and satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-size pieces
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups)
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried)

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, oregano, and thyme. Add the diced chicken and toss to coat. Let it marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Rice Base: Rinse the rice until the water runs clear. Drain thoroughly. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the rice evenly. Add the grated zucchini and pour in the chicken broth.
Assemble the Dish: Place the marinated chicken pieces evenly over the rice mixture. Pour any remaining marinade over the top.
Bake: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Serve with dollops of tzatziki sauce and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for some heat.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the dish before serving for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if the rice seems dry.

FAQs

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

I recommend using long grain white rice as it absorbs the flavors well and maintains a fluffy texture.

Can I use store-bought tzatziki sauce?

Yes, store-bought tzatziki works perfectly. However, homemade tzatziki can add a fresher taste if you have the time to prepare it.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating the chicken enhances the flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. Just ensure the chicken is well-coated with the marinade before baking.

Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It should be white and opaque throughout with no pink remaining.

Conclusion

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal.