Print

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5.2 from 25 reviews

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired casserole that combines tender chicken, Greek yogurt, herbs, and rice in a simple one-dish meal. Perfect for busy weeknights!

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)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
  2. Prepare the Casserole Base: 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.
  3. Add Chicken and Yogurt Mixture: 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 the yogurt mixture evenly over the chicken and rice. Spread it gently with the back of a spoon.
  4. Bake: 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.
  5. Add Toppings and Serve: Remove the foil, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, uncovered. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
  6. Serve: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with salad or pita bread.

Notes

  • Rice Options: Substitute brown rice or jasmine rice, adjusting liquid and cooking time accordingly.
  • Tzatziki Shortcut: Use store-bought tzatziki sauce, thinned with lemon juice or water.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare up to step 3, cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbysarah.com/dump-and-bake-chicken-tzatziki-with-rice-recipe/