Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice is my weeknight life-saver when I want a Mediterranean-inspired meal without the fuss. Everything cooks in one pan so you just stir it together and let the oven do the work. The result is tender chicken juicy rice fresh herbs and all those flavors you love in Greek takeout with none of the effort.

My family was so obsessed with the crispy bits and herby rice that it was gone before it even cooled While it baked I threw together a quick tzatziki and some pita and dinner felt special but effortless

Ingredients

• Chicken breast or thigh: gives you juicy bites and absorbs all the marinade flavor Search for meat that is pink and moist with no discoloration
• Long grain white rice: cooks evenly and stays fluffy Avoid using instant or brown rice as those need different liquid ratios
• Zucchini: adds moisture and a burst of nutrition I love choosing firm zucchini without too many seeds for better texture
• Chicken broth: builds savory flavor Base quality makes a difference so find a broth with no odd aftertaste
• Lemon juice and olive oil: make a bright marinade Use freshly squeezed lemon and a good fruity olive oil for the best results
• Fresh parsley oregano and thyme: make it taste like summer If possible pick bright green herbs that smell vibrant or use dried in a pinch
• Smoked paprika: gives that charred grill flavor and a touch of color Go for the Spanish variety rather than plain sweet paprika
• Seasonings: like seasoned salt cumin onion powder garlic powder black pepper turmeric and cayenne round out the Greek-inspired profile Check your spices for freshness for the richest taste
• Tzatziki sauce: for serving gives that creamy cooling finish Homemade or store-bought both work
• Pita bread: is perfect for scooping and keeps it fun for kids
• Extra fresh herbs and more lemon on top: bring it all together like a restaurant

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch glass or ceramic baking dish so the rice does not stick and cleanup is easier

Marinate the Chicken:

Add the diced chicken to the dish with lemon juice olive oil parsley oregano thyme smoked paprika seasoned salt cumin onion powder garlic powder black pepper turmeric and cayenne Toss thoroughly so every piece is coated well Marinate uncovered at room temperature for 30 minutes to let flavors absorb and tenderize

Combine and Add Main Ingredients:

After marinating stir in the uncooked rice coarsely grated zucchini and chicken broth Make sure everything is evenly distributed and the rice is covered by liquid for even cooking

Bake the Casserole:

Cover the dish tightly with foil or a fitted lid Trapping steam is crucial for fluffy rice Bake in a preheated 375 F oven for 40 minutes Resist the urge to peek

Check and Finish Cooking:

Uncover carefully and check if all the liquid has been absorbed and rice is tender If not return to the oven covered for another 5 to 10 minutes

Fluff and Serve:

Fluff the rice gently with a fork Taste and adjust salt if needed Serve portions topped with tzatziki extra fresh herbs and a generous squeeze of lemon Add warm pita for scooping

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Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well covered in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently with a sprinkle of broth to keep the rice moist The dish does not freeze as well due to the fresh zucchini but you can try freezing in portions if you do not mind a slightly softer texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fresh herbs use dried ones but reduce the amount Dry herbs have more concentrated flavor You can swap out the chicken thighs for breasts or even use leftover rotisserie chicken stirred in at the end Better not to substitute the rice as other types do not cook the same with this method

Serving Suggestions

I like to serve this with tons of fresh dill and a lemon wedge on each plate Pile on the tzatziki or add a big green salad with feta and cherry tomatoes For fun let guests stuff the rice and chicken into warm pita with extra sauce

Cultural Context

This bake takes cues from Greek flavors but makes it weeknight friendly With classic ingredients like lemon oregano and smoked paprika it echoes the warmth of a souvlaki platter My Greek friend told me it reminded her of home and that is always the best compliment

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use brown rice in this dish?

It's best to use long grain white rice as brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time, which may not match this method.

→ What type of chicken works best?

Either boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work well. Dice into bite-size pieces for even cooking and tenderness.

→ How important is it to use smoked paprika?

Smoked paprika adds a subtle charred note similar to grilled chicken. It elevates the overall flavor, so it's highly recommended.

→ Should I cover the baking dish?

Yes, covering the dish tightly with foil is crucial to trap steam, ensuring moist rice and tender chicken throughout baking.

→ Can I add extra vegetables?

You may add extra grated vegetables like carrots or spinach. Just take care not to add too much liquid to the mixture.