Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice

Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice is a delicious and easy meal that everyone can enjoy. This one-dish recipe features tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and flavorful tzatziki sauce. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is great for several reasons. First, it’s effortless to prepare. You just need to dump the ingredients into a baking dish and let the oven do the work. Second, it offers a tasty and balanced meal with protein, carbs, and fresh vegetables in the tzatziki sauce. Lastly, it is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

How to Make Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
3 cups chicken broth (or water + 1 bouillon cube)
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp dried oregano

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, combine the rice, chicken broth, olive oil, and dried oregano.
Place the chicken thighs or breasts on top of the rice mixture, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Serve with tzatziki sauce on the side.

How to Serve Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice

Serve this dish hot, straight from the oven. Spoon the rice and chicken onto plates and add a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce on the side. You can also add some fresh vegetables or a side salad for extra color and crunch.

How to Store Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice

Make sure the chicken is properly submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
You can add veggies like bell peppers or spinach to the rice mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
Adjust the amount of oregano based on your taste.

Variation

For a lighter version, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. If you prefer, substitute brown rice for white rice, but be aware that the cooking time may change.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

Q: What if I don’t have chicken broth?
A: You can use water with a bouillon cube instead of chicken broth.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance, cover it, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few more minutes to the cooking time.