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Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe

Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe
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5.2 from 20 reviews

Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a Mediterranean-inspired casserole that combines the flavors of Greek tzatziki sauce with tender chicken and rice in a simple, one-dish meal. It’s a wholesome and satisfying dinner option that requires minimal effort.

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 over the rice mixture. Whisk together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and lemon juice. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken and rice.
  4. Bake – Cover the dish with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
  5. Add Toppings and Serve – Sprinkle feta cheese over the top, then bake uncovered for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
  6. Serve – Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving warm with salad or pita bread.

Notes

  • Rice Options: Substitute brown or jasmine rice, adjusting liquid and cooking time as needed.
  • Tzatziki Shortcut: Use store-bought tzatziki sauce, thinned with lemon juice or water.
  • Make Ahead: Prep up to step 3, refrigerate covered for up to 12 hours, then bake.

Nutrition

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