Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe
If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious meal to put on the table, look no further than Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice. This one-dish casserole combines chicken, rice, and a refreshing tzatziki sauce, making it a satisfying dinner option for any night of the week.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a tasty meal ready with minimal effort. The flavors of tzatziki blend beautifully with the chicken and rice, creating a comforting dish that is both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the Mediterranean flavors in your own home!
How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
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
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup grated cucumber (squeeze out excess water)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped)
- 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)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
- In the baking dish, combine the uncooked rice, chicken broth (or water), olive oil, garlic, dill, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Arrange the chicken pieces evenly over the rice mixture.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and lemon juice to create the tzatziki base. Pour this yogurt mixture evenly over the chicken and rice. Spread it gently with the back of a spoon.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Remove the foil and sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top, if desired. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, uncovered, to melt the cheese slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Let the dish sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and serve warm, alongside a crisp salad or warm pita bread.
How to Serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
Serve this flavorful dish warm right out of the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some warm pita bread. This makes it a great meal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
How to Store Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days. You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.
Tips to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice
- Make sure to squeeze out as much water as possible from the grated cucumber to avoid a watery tzatziki.
- You can customize the spices according to your taste. Add more cumin for a bolder flavor or use fresh herbs for an extra punch.
- If you want to save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. You can also add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to the rice for extra nutrients.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish the day before and store it covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
3. What can I do with any leftovers?
Leftovers can be enjoyed as is, made into a wrap with pita bread, or even mixed into a salad for a quick lunch.
