This dinner is a breeze with Easy Dump and Bake Chicken! Just toss everything in a dish and pop it in the oven. The chicken comes out juicy while the rice gets a creamy tzatziki twist!
I love how simple this meal is—no fuss, just yummy goodness! Plus, the creamy tzatziki on the rice makes it feel extra special. Perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts makes this dish easy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even swap it out for tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Greek Yogurt: This is key for a creamy tzatziki. If you want a lighter version, you could substitute low-fat yogurt or even sour cream. Just know that the flavor may slightly differ!
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, but if you’re avoiding white rice, try brown rice or quinoa. Just remember that cooking times may vary!
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch to the tzatziki. If you don’t have one, you can use finely grated zucchini for a similar texture!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy chicken is all about the prep and cooking method. Make sure to season well and cover it while baking to lock in moisture. Here’s a quick guide:
- Mix your spices with olive oil and lemon juice to create a marinade. Rub it on the chicken for more flavor.
- Cover with foil during baking to prevent drying out. Remove it towards the end if you want a slightly crispy top.
- Check doneness using a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
Following these steps will help you serve juicy, flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy the creamy tzatziki rice, and feel free to get creative with the toppings. Happy cooking! 😊
Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Creamy Tzatziki Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Creamy Tzatziki Rice:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup cucumber, finely grated and drained
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time, plus 40-45 minutes to bake. It’s simple: you’ll have everything prepped in no time and then just let the oven do the work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the chicken will cook evenly and the rice will get nice and fluffy!
2. Prepare the Rice Base:
In a large baking dish, spread the rinsed rice in an even layer. This will be the base for your juicy chicken!
3. Add Onions and Garlic:
Sprinkle the chopped onion and minced garlic over the rice. These will add fantastic flavor to your dish as they cook!
4. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Carefully pour the chicken broth over the rice mixture. This is what helps the rice cook and keeps everything moist.
5. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix these together to create a tasty seasoning blend.
6. Place the Chicken on Top:
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts. Then, place them on top of the rice in the baking dish.
7. Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to keep the steam in. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is tender.
8. Make the Creamy Tzatziki:
While the chicken and rice are baking, prep the creamy tzatziki! In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, chopped dill, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
9. Fluff and Combine:
Once baking is complete, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the creamy tzatziki mixture to give it a nice, creamy texture.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the chicken breasts over the creamy tzatziki rice and enjoy your easy and flavorful meal! It’s hearty and comforting—perfect for any night of the week!
FAQ for Easy Dump and Bake Chicken with Creamy Tzatziki Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and baking. A quick way to thaw is by placing the chicken in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 1-2 hours.
How Can I Substitute the Rice in This Recipe?
If you’re looking for a substitute for long-grain white rice, feel free to use brown rice or quinoa. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary—brown rice usually takes about 10-15 minutes longer to cook!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to prevent the rice from drying out and warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove.
Can I Add Veggies to the Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just chop them small and layer them with the rice before adding the chicken for an extra nutritional boost!
