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Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe

Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake Recipe
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4.9 from 10 reviews

This one-pan Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki and Rice combines Mediterranean flavors with tender chicken and fluffy rice for an effortless dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-size pieces
  • 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
  • 1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups)
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Marinade Base

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh Herbs

  • 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)

Seasonings

  • 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 Serving

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

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray with nonstick cooking spray. In the prepared dish, combine chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, and all herbs and spices. Let marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F.
  2. Add the uncooked rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth to the pan with the marinated chicken. Stir everything together well.
  3. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed. If needed, bake 5-10 minutes longer.
  4. Fluff the rice with a fork, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve topped with tzatziki sauce, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon.

Notes

  • Only use long grain white rice – brown rice, wild rice, or instant rice won’t work with these liquid ratios and cooking times.
  • Use smoked paprika specifically for that authentic charred flavor similar to grilled souvlaki.
  • Covering the dish tightly is crucial to prevent steam from escaping while cooking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbysarah.com/easy-chicken-tzatziki-rice-bake-recipe/