This easy dump and bake dish features tender chicken paired with creamy tzatziki rice. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both comforting and refreshing, perfect for busy nights!
I love how simple it is to make—just toss the ingredients together and let the oven do the work! Plus, there’s something special about that creamy rice that makes every bite delightful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Long-Grain White Rice: This rice cooks up fluffy and works well in this dish. If you prefer, brown rice can be used, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and liquid.
Chicken: Chicken thighs are my favorite for their juiciness, but breasts work just fine. For a leaner option, consider using turkey breast instead.
Greek Yogurt: This gives the tzatziki its creamy texture. If you can’t find Greek yogurt, plain regular yogurt is a good alternative, though it may be less thick.
English Cucumber: It’s mild and has fewer seeds. If you can’t find it, any cucumber will do, just remove the seeds for less water in your tzatziki.
How Do I Ensure My Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking rice perfectly in the oven can be tricky, but I’ve got some tips! It’s important to not stir the rice during baking because that helps create a layer of flavor and a nice texture on top.
- Use the right ratio of liquid to rice; the chicken broth boosts flavor.
- Cover everything well with foil or a lid during the first 30 minutes to trap steam, which helps cook the rice evenly.
- Check for doneness at the 45-minute mark, but let it sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow remaining moisture to absorb.
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Creamy Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Rice Bake:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
- 1.5 lbs (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon (divided)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Tzatziki:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 English cucumber, finely diced or grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- A pinch of salt
- A squeeze of lemon juice
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley or mint, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 15 minutes to prep, followed by 45 minutes in the oven. The total time is about 1 hour, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the cut chicken, sliced onion, minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, paprika, oregano, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything really well so that the chicken is nicely coated in all the flavors.
3. Assemble the Bake:
Add the rinsed rice to the chicken mixture, followed by the chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir well to make sure everything is combined, then pour it all into your greased baking dish.
4. Bake the Dish:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45 minutes. You’ll want to avoid stirring it as it cooks, so that you can get a lovely crust on top and the rice cooks perfectly.
5. Make the Creamy Tzatziki:
While the chicken and rice bake, prepare the tzatziki! In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped dill, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Mix well and taste it; adjust the flavors if needed.
6. Serve the Dish:
When the bake is ready, gently fluff the rice with a fork and serve it onto plates. Add generous spoonfuls of tzatziki on top, alongside extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or mint for a burst of color.
7. Enjoy!
Dig into this easy, flavorful dish that brings together spices, tender chicken, and a cooling yogurt sauce—all in one pan. It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to impress without any fuss!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! However, you’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 60-70 minutes and add a little more chicken broth (around 3 cups total) since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt?
Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, you can use regular plain yogurt. Alternatively, sour cream can also work in place of Greek yogurt for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the microwave or in a pan on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to moisten.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add to This Dish?
Feel free to mix in some vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach before baking! Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and combine them with the chicken and rice for added nutrition and flavor.
