Name: Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs; 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 medium zucchini; Tzatziki sauce for serving; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or ½ teaspoon dried); 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or ½ teaspoon dried); 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ¾ teaspoon seasoned salt; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon turmeric; ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

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If you’re looking for a simple yet scrumptious dinner that brings the bright, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your table, then this Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. With tender chicken and fluffy rice coming together effortlessly in one pan, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or those cozy family gatherings. Plus, with a dollop of creamy tzatziki on top, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!

This dish is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Trust me; once you make this Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake, it will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in one pan and let the oven do the work. No complicated steps here!
Family-Friendly Flavors: This dish is packed with familiar tastes that everyone can enjoy, making it great for picky eaters.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. Perfect for meal prepping!
Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of herbs, spices, and tzatziki keeps every bite deliciously refreshing.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own or with pita bread and fresh herbs for extra flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple, wholesome, and full of flavor. Gather these goodies to create your Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake:

For the Chicken Marinade

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-size pieces
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¾ teaspoon seasoned salt
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon turmeric
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Bake

1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups)
2 cups chicken broth

To Serve

Tzatziki sauce
Pita bread
Fresh herbs (dill, basil, parsley, or chives)
Fresh lemon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

Swap the Protein: Use diced turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Change Up the Veggies: Add in bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
Try Different Grains: Substitute quinoa or brown rice if you want something heartier.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, add more cayenne pepper or even some red pepper flakes!

How to Make Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray. This step ensures that nothing sticks to the pan and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In your prepared dish, combine diced chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, and all those aromatic herbs and spices. Let it marinate at room temperature for about 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully into the chicken.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Now it’s time to add some bulk! Toss in uncooked rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth into the pan with your marinated chicken. Stir everything together gently so that all ingredients are well combined. This creates a harmonious blend of flavors as they cook together.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Cover your baking dish tightly with foil before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 40 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If needed, check after 40 minutes and bake an additional 5-10 minutes if necessary—it’s important that everything cooks evenly!

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Once done baking, remove from oven and fluff the rice using a fork. Taste it—feel free to adjust any seasoning if needed. Serve topped with generous spoonfuls of tzatziki sauce, sprinkle fresh herbs over top, and finish with a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of freshness.

Enjoy your delightful Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake! It’s sure to be a hit at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

Making the perfect Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is all about the little details. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors and nutrients to your dish, making it visually appealing and healthier.
Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate in lemon juice and spices deepens the flavors, ensuring that every bite is packed with that Mediterranean goodness.
Check Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the liquid during baking. If you find that the rice is not cooked through after 40 minutes, adding a splash more chicken broth can help achieve the perfect texture without drying out the dish.
Don’t Skip the Tzatziki: This creamy sauce is essential! It adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken and rice, making each bite delightful.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on your preference or what you have on hand. This flexibility can elevate your dish and keep things interesting!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

This dish is as delightful to serve as it is to eat! Here are some creative ways to present it for family dinners or gatherings.

Garnishes

Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped dill or parsley adds a burst of freshness that complements the tzatziki beautifully.
Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to add a squeeze of bright citrus for an extra zing.
Crumbled Feta Cheese: For those who enjoy cheese, a sprinkle of feta adds a salty creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of this dish.

Side Dishes

Greek Salad: A light Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil complements the richness of the chicken bake while providing a refreshing crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrients while balancing out the meal’s flavors.
Hummus and Pita Bread: A side of hummus paired with warm pita bread makes for a fantastic appetizer that guests will love before diving into the main dish.
Cucumber Yogurt Salad: This cool salad made with cucumbers, yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative), garlic, and herbs acts as a wonderful palate cleanser alongside your hearty rice bake.

Get ready to impress your family or friends with this easy-to-make yet deliciously satisfying meal that brings Mediterranean flair right into your kitchen!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for later. Here’s how to do it:

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Portion out the chicken and rice bake into freezer-safe containers.
Label with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in the microwave until warmed through, or cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I make this Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if it’s chilled.

What can I serve with Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pita bread, fresh salads, or additional tzatziki sauce on the side. Enjoy your favorite Mediterranean sides!

Can I substitute the chicken in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I know when my rice is done cooking?

The rice should be fluffy and tender with most of the liquid absorbed. If it seems undercooked after 40 minutes, cover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake! It’s a comforting dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors while being simple enough for any home cook. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal prep win, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking, and enjoy sharing this delightful recipe with your loved ones!

Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean

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Description

Enjoy a delightful culinary journey with this Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake, a one-pan wonder that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish features tender chicken marinated in aromatic herbs and spices, combined with fluffy rice and topped off with a refreshing tzatziki sauce. The simplicity of preparation makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds. With just a few wholesome ingredients and effortless steps, you can create a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also nourishing!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 medium zucchini
Tzatziki sauce for serving
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¾ teaspoon seasoned salt
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon turmeric
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In the baking dish, combine diced chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, and spices. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes.
Add uncooked rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth to the marinated chicken; stir gently to combine.
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for about 40 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Remove from oven, fluff the rice with a fork, adjust seasonings if necessary, and serve topped with tzatziki sauce and fresh herbs.