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A delicious serving of Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice topped with fresh herbs.

Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice

A simple one-pan bake with seasoned chicken and tender rice, topped with a fresh tzatziki for a delicious weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups long grain white rice (or jasmine or basmati) For a more aromatic flavor.
  • 4 cups chicken broth (or water) Broth for more savory depth.
  • 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (or skinless thighs) Use thighs for more moisture.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil To keep the chicken moist.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt) For a vegan-friendly option.
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 cup grated cucumber Excess moisture squeezed out.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon oregano (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup diced cucumber substitute (zucchini or bell pepper) Optional.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear.
  3. Spread the rice evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  4. Pour chicken broth over the rice and gently stir to level it out.
  5. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
  6. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the rice. Scatter diced cucumber substitute if using.
  7. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then cover the dish tightly with foil.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, checking that the chicken’s internal temperature is 165°F.
  2. Let the dish rest covered for 5 to 10 minutes.
Tzatziki Preparation
  1. Whisk together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, grated cucumber, dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. Taste and adjust acidity or salt as needed.
Serving
  1. Spoon tzatziki over the chicken and rice or serve on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g

Notes

Rinsing rice removes starch and prevents clumping. Adjust seasoning to taste.

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