Description
This Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is a comforting one-pan meal combining tender marinated chicken, fragrant herbs, and nutritious grated zucchini with fluffy rice baked to perfection. Finished with cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon, this Greek-inspired casserole offers a deliciously simple way to enjoy a balanced, flavorful dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 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)
- 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
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups)
- 2 cups chicken broth
To Serve
- Tzatziki sauce
- Pita bread
- Fresh herbs (dill, basil, parsley, or chives)
- Fresh lemon
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Marinate Chicken: In the prepared baking dish, combine the diced chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, fresh or dried herbs, and all the spices listed. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Combine Ingredients: To the dish with marinated chicken, add the uncooked long grain white rice, coarsely grated zucchini, and chicken broth. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the rice and zucchini are mixed evenly with the chicken and marinade.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Check the rice for tenderness and that most liquid is absorbed. If needed, continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until fully cooked.
- Final Steps: Remove the foil and fluff the rice mixture gently with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve each portion topped generously with creamy tzatziki sauce, sprinkle fresh herbs over the top, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Accompany with warm pita bread.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken at room temperature helps to infuse flavor and tenderize the meat before baking.
- If you prefer, chicken thighs can be used in place of breast for juicier results.
- The zucchini adds moisture and nutrition; do not squeeze out the excess water as it helps cook the rice.
- Covering the dish tightly during baking steams the rice, ensuring it cooks evenly and stays moist.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste before serving, especially after baking.
- Serve with warm pita bread to soak up the flavorful juices and tzatziki sauce.
