This fun and simple meal brings together juicy chicken and creamy tzatziki rice all in one dish. Just dump everything in a pan and let the oven do the work!
I love how easy it is—perfect for busy days! Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a tasty dish that practically makes itself while you relax? Dinner is served! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for a quick bake. If you prefer, thighs can be juicier and are a great substitute. Always adjust the cooking time if you choose a different cut!
Long-grain white rice: This type of rice cooks well in the oven. If you’re looking for a whole grain alternative, try brown rice, but remember it may need more liquid and a longer cooking time. Quinoa can also be a wholesome swap!
Greek yogurt: This ingredient adds creaminess to the tzatziki. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based yogurt like almond or coconut. Just make sure it’s plain for the best flavor.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber is key for a crisp tzatziki sauce. If you’re out of cucumbers, try diced zucchini or omit it altogether. You could also use pickles for a different twist!
Fresh herbs: Fresh dill is preferred for flavor, but dried dill works too in a pinch. You can also experiment with mint for a more refreshing taste in the tzatziki.
How Do You Make Tzatziki Sauce From Scratch?
Making tzatziki is super easy! It’s a simple mix that adds a cool flavor to your meal. Here’s a quick guide to ensure it turns out great:
- Start with plain Greek yogurt as your base. This gives it a thick, creamy texture.
- Add finely diced cucumber. To prevent excess water, you can squeeze the cucumber in a paper towel.
- Stir in minced garlic for flavor, adjusting to your taste preferences. A little goes a long way!
- Mix in fresh or dried dill, a splash of lemon juice, and olive oil for richness.
- Season with a pinch of salt, and your tzatziki is ready!
This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a refreshing topping anytime! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of salt
For Garnishing:
- Lemon wedges (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 35-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 50 minutes for a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, grab a large baking dish and spread the uncooked rice evenly across the bottom.
2. Adding the Chicken and Broth:
Next, pour the chicken broth over the rice, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Then, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken breasts. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano before placing them directly on top of the rice in the dish. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully!
3. Baking:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps keep moisture in, making the chicken juicy and the rice tender. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. Check that the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender when you remove it from the oven.
4. Making the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the chicken is baking, you can whip up the tzatziki sauce! In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. Add a pinch of salt, then mix everything together until combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking!
5. Serving Time:
Once the oven timer goes off, remove the baking dish and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Then, serve the chicken and rice topped with a generous dollop of your freshly made tzatziki sauce. If you like, garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor!
Enjoy your delicious, easy dinner that brings bright Mediterranean flavors right to your table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. You’ll want to increase the chicken broth to around 2 cups and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender. Make sure to check it periodically!
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
If you’re looking to make this dish dairy-free, simply substitute the Greek yogurt in the tzatziki sauce with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as almond or coconut yogurt. Check that it’s plain and unsweetened for the best flavor.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of liquid if needed to prevent dryness. The tzatziki sauce can also be kept for up to 3 days!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Mixed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be added to the dish before baking. Just make sure to toss them in olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavors while adding nutrients!
