This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal without the fuss. "Dump and bake" truly lives up to its name – minimal prep time and maximum deliciousness! This recipe combines juicy, tender chicken baked in a creamy, herbaceous tzatziki sauce with fluffy rice, creating a complete and comforting dish the whole family will love.
What is Tzatziki Sauce?
Tzatziki sauce is a refreshing yogurt-based sauce that originates from Greek cuisine. It's typically made with Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. The combination of creamy yogurt and fresh, vibrant herbs creates a tangy and subtly sweet flavor profile that perfectly complements the chicken in this recipe.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- For the Chicken & Tzatziki:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth (for extra flavor)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water (or broth) in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
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Make the Tzatziki: In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
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Combine Chicken and Tzatziki: Add the chicken pieces to the tzatziki mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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Bake the Chicken: Pour the chicken and tzatziki mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Serve: Serve the baked chicken and tzatziki over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with extra fresh dill, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tzatziki for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes along with the chicken for a more complete meal.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like parsley, mint, or chives.
- Make it ahead: The tzatziki sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How long does it take to cook dump and bake chicken tzatziki?
The total cook time for this recipe is approximately 45-50 minutes, including the time to cook the rice and bake the chicken. The prep time is minimal, making it a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
While this recipe is written for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can use bone-in chicken breasts. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted, and you may need to increase the baking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I use different types of rice?
You can certainly experiment with other types of rice, such as brown rice or quinoa. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of rice you use. Always follow the package instructions for cooking the rice.
Can I freeze this dish?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing this dish is not recommended as the texture of the chicken and rice may change upon thawing.
This Dump and Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy meal option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!
