Imagine a dish that combines the vibrant, tangy flavors of Greek tzatziki sauce with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice—all made effortlessly in a single baking dish. Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that saves time without sacrificing flavor. This Mediterranean-inspired casserole is packed with protein, fresh herbs, and creamy yogurt goodness, delivering a wholesome and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Minimal chopping and no pre-cooking required.
- One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean up afterward.
- Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and wholesome ingredients.
- Customizable: Adaptable to different dietary needs and flavor preferences.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water)
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce
- Grate the Cucumber: Using the fine side of a grater, grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
- Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Rice: Evenly spread the uncooked rice across the bottom of the dish.
- Add the Broth: Pour the chicken broth over the rice to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces on top of the rice in a single layer.
Step 3: Season the Chicken and Rice
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Drizzle the seasoning over the chicken and rice, using a spoon or hands to ensure even distribution.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 40 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: Remove the foil and check if the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). If necessary, bake uncovered for an additional 5–10 minutes.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese, if using, along with fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Serve with Tzatziki: Spoon the chilled tzatziki sauce over the casserole or serve it on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve with a crisp Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or warm pita bread.
- Beverages: Pair with white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or iced tea.
- Extra Flavor: Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips for Success
- Use Long-Grain Rice: Basmati or jasmine rice works best to avoid a mushy texture.
- Squeeze the Cucumber: Removing excess water ensures the tzatziki sauce stays creamy.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Check Liquid Levels: If the rice looks dry, add a splash of broth or water during baking.
Variations
- Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or tofu.
- Vegetarian Version: Use chickpeas or roasted vegetables and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice, reducing the baking time slightly.
- Add Veggies: Mix in cherry tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time. Increase the broth quantity and extend baking by 15–20 minutes.
What if I don’t have tzatziki ingredients?
Use store-bought tzatziki or mix plain Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic powder, and dried dill as a quick alternative.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki sauce and skip the feta cheese topping.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking?
Grease the baking dish well and ensure the broth fully covers the rice before baking.
Conclusion
Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a foolproof recipe that brings the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine to your table with minimal effort. The creamy tzatziki sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a comforting yet refreshing dish.
Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy night or impressing guests with a vibrant, wholesome meal, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy a taste of Greece from the comfort of your home!