This Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Dinner is a tasty one-pan meal! With juicy chicken, creamy tzatziki, and fluffy rice, it’s both yummy and simple to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and cook quickly. If you’re looking for a substitution, thighs can add extra flavor, just adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to bake.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect for absorbing flavors. You can use brown rice, but it will need more water and a longer cooking time. Quinoa is another great option for a gluten-free meal.
Tzatziki Sauce: Tzatziki adds a creamy and refreshing flavor. You can easily make your own with yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs if you prefer fresh. Store-bought is a great shortcut if you’re in a hurry!
Broth: Using chicken broth adds flavor to the rice. If you’re vegetarian or want a lighter version, vegetable broth works just as well. Water is also acceptable if necessary.
How Can You Ensure the Rice Cooks Perfectly?
Getting the rice to cook just right is essential for this dish. Here’s how to nail it:
- Always rinse the rice! This removes excess starch and helps prevent it from becoming sticky.
- Ensure you use enough liquid. For long-grain rice, the general rule is a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to liquid, but here we’re using the broth with added flavors.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil. This traps steam and helps cook the rice evenly.
- Let the dish sit after baking. This resting period allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and firm up slightly.
Perfectly cooked rice will be fluffy and separate, not mushy, enhancing your dinner experience! Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken and Rice:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried dill or fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Tzatziki and Garnish:
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 lemon, sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and then about 45 minutes to 1 hour of baking. After baking, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Altogether, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your dinner goes in.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
In a large baking dish (around 9×13 inches or similar), spread the rinsed rice evenly across the bottom. This is where all the delicious flavors will come together!
3. Add Onions and Garlic:
Now, sprinkle the finely chopped onion and minced garlic over the rice. This adds wonderful flavor to the rice while it cooks.
4. Pour in the Liquid:
Next, pour the chicken broth (or water) evenly over the rice mixture. This will help the rice cook perfectly and absorb all the tasty flavors. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle the oregano, dill, salt, and black pepper for extra flavor.
5. Lay Down the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice layer. Season the chicken with a little more salt, pepper, and some dried oregano to enhance the taste.
6. Add the Tzatziki Sauce:
Dollop or spread the tzatziki sauce evenly over each chicken breast. This will keep the chicken moist and add a creamy texture.
7. Bake It All Together:
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil so the steam circulates and cooks everything evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check that the chicken is cooked through; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done.
8. Get a Little Brown on Top:
If you like a bit of a golden crust on your chicken, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes of baking. This will help it brown nicely!
9. Let It Rest:
Once your dish is done baking, take it out and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This gives the rice time to absorb any remaining moisture and makes for a flavorful meal.
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or dill and add lemon slices if you like a pop of brightness. Serve warm, and enjoy every bite of your flavorful and fuss-free Chicken Tzatziki Rice Dinner! 😊
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but keep in mind it will require more liquid and a longer baking time. Use about 2 cups of chicken broth and increase the baking time to 1 to 1.5 hours, checking the rice for doneness.
What Can I Use Instead of Tzatziki Sauce?
If you don’t have tzatziki on hand, you can make a simple substitute by mixing plain yogurt with minced cucumber, garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and some dill. Alternatively, Greek yogurt can be a good and creamy base if you’re looking for a quick option!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either use the microwave or warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach along with the onion and garlic for extra nutrition. Just keep the total volume the same so the cooking times remain accurate!
