Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice is a fantastic meal option that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just want a quick weeknight meal, this dish brings fresh Mediterranean flavors right to your table. With its simple preparation and delicious taste, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and is perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of herbs and spices ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Meal: Pair it with tzatziki, fresh herbs, or lemon to customize each serving.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this comforting dish.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make cooking easier.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• 9 x 13-inch baking dish
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Grater

Why These Tools Matter

• Baking Dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and makes serving easy.
• Nonstick Cooking Spray: Prevents food from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently before baking.

Ingredients

This dump-and-bake version of chicken tzatziki and rice is fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy!

For the Chicken and Rice

• 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast or boneless skinless chicken thighs, (diced into bite-size pieces)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or ½ teaspoon dried parsley flakes)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or ½ teaspoon dried oregano)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¾ teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s brand)
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
• 1 medium zucchini, (coarsely grated (about 1 ½ cups grated))
• 2 cups chicken broth

For Serving:

• Tzatziki sauce
• Fresh herbs
• Lemon wedges

How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by greasing a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In the prepared baking dish, toss the diced chicken with:
1. Lemon juice,
2. Olive oil,
3. Parsley,
4. Oregano,
5. Thyme,
6. Smoked paprika,
7. Seasoned salt,
8. Cumin,
9. Onion powder,
10. Garlic powder,
11. Black pepper,
12. Turmeric,
13. Cayenne.

Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for about 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

After marinating the chicken, add the following to the pan:
– Uncooked rice,
– Grated zucchini,
– Chicken broth.

Stir everything together to combine well.

Step 4: Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to ensure that no steam escapes during cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for:
– 45-50 minutes if using metal pans or
– About 50-60 minutes if using glass or ceramic pans.

The dish is done when most of the liquid is absorbed, and the rice is tender.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Once finished baking, use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Taste it and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve warm topped with tzatziki sauce, fresh herbs, and lemon wedges for an extra zing!

How to Serve Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

Serving Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice can be both simple and delightful. This dish shines with fresh flavors and can be paired with various sides and garnishes that enhance its Mediterranean flair.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Dill: Add fresh dill for an aromatic touch that complements the tzatziki sauce perfectly.

Lemon Wedges

• Zesty Addition: Serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh juice over their serving for extra brightness.

Tzatziki Sauce

• Creamy Dip: Offer a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on top of the chicken and rice for added creaminess and tang.

Salad

• Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese pairs wonderfully for a light, crunchy contrast.

Pita Bread

• Soft Accompaniment: Warm pita bread is perfect for scooping up chicken and rice, making each bite enjoyable.

Roasted Vegetables

• Colorful Side: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or asparagus to add nutrition and flavor diversity.

How to Perfect Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

To make your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice even better, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the herbs and spices at room temperature maximizes flavor absorption.
• Proper Covering: Ensure the baking dish is tightly covered with foil to trap steam, helping the rice cook evenly.
• Rice Variety: For added texture, consider using brown rice instead of white rice; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Zucchini Grating: Coarsely grate zucchini for quicker cooking and better integration into the dish.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors based on your preference.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let the dish sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

Pairing side dishes with Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese tossed in olive oil for a refreshing bite.
2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty complement to the main dish.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering other flavors.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs provides a nutty flavor that pairs well with chicken.
5. Cucumber Dill Yogurt Salad: A cool yogurt salad with cucumbers and dill offers a refreshing contrast.
6. Mediterranean Couscous: Light couscous cooked with vegetables brings additional texture to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Not marinating the chicken: Skipping the marination time can lead to bland chicken. Allow the chicken to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
• Using the wrong type of rice: Opting for quick-cooking rice instead of long grain white rice may result in uneven cooking. Stick to long grain white rice for best results.
• Not covering the dish tightly: Failing to cover your baking dish properly can cause steam and liquid to escape, leading to dry rice. Ensure it’s covered tightly with foil before baking.
• Overbaking or underbaking: Baking times vary by oven and dish material. Regularly check for doneness; you want the rice tender but not mushy.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting before serving might leave your dish under-seasoned. Always taste and adjust with salt or pepper as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth in a pan over low heat, add rice, and stir gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice?

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice is a simple one-dish meal that combines seasoned chicken, rice, zucchini, and flavorful spices all baked together.

How long does it take to prepare Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice?

The total time is approximately 95 minutes, including prep time of about 10 minutes followed by cooking time of around 55 minutes.

Can I customize the recipe?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or swap herbs based on your preference for different flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prepping since it stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer.

Conclusion

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Give it a try today!

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