This Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice is a one-pan miracle! Juicy chicken is paired with fluffy rice and tasty tzatziki sauce for a dish that’s refreshing and fun.
I love how it all comes together in one dish. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a meal that makes clean-up a breeze? Just dump it in and let the oven do the magic! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. You can substitute them with thighs for a juicier option or use tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Rice: Long grain white rice gives the dish a fluffy texture. If you prefer something healthier, brown rice or quinoa can be used, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes contribute moisture and flavor. You can swap them out for fresh tomatoes if they’re in season or use diced fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky taste.
Greek Yogurt: The base for tzatziki, Greek yogurt is creamy and tangy. You can substitute with regular yogurt or dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt for a lighter sauce.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Perfectly While Keeping the Rice Tender?
Getting the chicken just right while ensuring the rice is fluffy is all about timing and cover! Here’s what to do:
- Use a deep baking dish; this allows for even cooking and ensures nothing overflows.
- Cover tightly with foil for the first part of baking. This traps moisture, cooking the rice and chicken evenly.
- Check the internal chicken temperature at the end of cooking; it should reach 165°F (74°C). This way, you can be sure it’s cooked through.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender.
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prep and then 55 to 60 minutes in the oven. Overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish, including cooking and resting time. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, your oven is nice and ready for the dish.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, sliced red onion, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken breasts right on top of the rice mixture. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, and if you like, sprinkle a little more salt and pepper on top for extra flavor.
4. Bake Covered:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This keeps everything nice and moist. Bake it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
5. Bake Uncovered:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Bake the dish uncovered for another 10-15 minutes. This will help finish cooking the chicken and allow the rice to get nice and fluffy. Make sure the chicken is cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
6. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the chicken and rice are baking, you can whip up the tzatziki sauce. In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber (make sure to squeeze out the moisture), lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until everything is combined.
7. Let It Rest:
Once your chicken and rice are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors set in.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the delicious chicken and rice topped with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh dill or parsley for a lovely touch!
Enjoy your delicious, easy dump and bake chicken tzatziki rice!
FAQ for Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! If you prefer brown rice, just keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. You may need to increase the total baking time by about 15-20 minutes, and check to ensure both the chicken and rice are cooked through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt. The flavor might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Prep This Meal Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the rice and chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals or warm it on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it moist.
