Description
A simple and flavorful one-pan Chicken Tzatziki Dump Bake recipe bursting with Mediterranean taste. This dump-and-bake dinner requires minimal cleanup and features juicy marinated chicken, herbed rice, zucchini, and a cooling tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/4 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- For Serving: Tzatziki sauce, fresh lemon wedges, chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, basil, or chives), pita bread or flatbread
Instructions
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the diced chicken, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, seasoned salt, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Add the uncooked long grain white rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth to the baking dish. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
- Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on your baking dish material. The dish is done when the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork to fluff the rice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, topped with tzatziki sauce, fresh herbs, and lemon wedges. Offer pita bread on the side.
Notes
- Use only long grain white rice; other types may not cook evenly.
- Ensure the foil cover is tight to trap steam for proper rice cooking.
- Chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor and added moisture.
- Add spinach or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Serve with tzatziki just before eating for the best contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate