Name: Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-size pieces; 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice; 1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups); 2 cups chicken broth (Use low-sodium for a healthier option.); 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; Tzatziki sauce; Pita bread; Fresh herbs (dill, basil, parsley, or chives); Fresh lemon

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Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is a wonderful dish that combines tender chicken, soft rice, and fresh zucchini, all baked together for a cozy family meal. It’s rich in flavor with a hint of sunshine from the lemon and herbs. This dish is perfect for busy weekdays when you want something that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Why You Will Love This Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

This recipe is great for families because it’s simple and requires minimal prep. You can easily assemble everything in one baking dish. The flavors are delicious and appealing to kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s a nutritious option packed with protein and veggies.

How to Make Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

Making this dish is a breeze! You’ll combine the marinated chicken and spices with rice and zucchini, then pop it in the oven. The result is a warm and comforting casserole that fills the house with mouthwatering aromas.

What You Need

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-size pieces
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups)
2 cups chicken broth
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
Tzatziki sauce
Pita bread
Fresh herbs (dill, basil, parsley, or chives)
Fresh lemon

Step-by-Step

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
In the prepared dish, combine chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, and all herbs and spices. Let marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes while preheating oven to 375°F.
Add the uncooked rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth to the pan with the marinated chicken. Stir everything together well.
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed. If needed, bake 5-10 minutes longer.
Fluff the rice with a fork, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve topped with tzatziki sauce, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

This dish is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with warm pita bread and a fresh green salad. You can also add extra toppings like feta cheese or olives for an extra burst of flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

How to Store Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.

Recipe Tips

Let the chicken marinate for a full 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Use a mix of herbs to customize the taste to your family’s liking.
Feel free to swap out zucchini for spinach or bell peppers for variety.
Adjust cooking time based on your oven, as some may cook faster or slower.
Always fluff the rice with a fork after baking to keep it light and fluffy.

Variations & Swaps

Swap chicken for turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Replace rice with quinoa for a healthier grain.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce sodium levels.
Add extra veggies like carrots or peas to boost the nutrients.
Top with shredded cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate it before cooking. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven, maybe adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Is it okay to freeze leftovers?
Yes, freezing is a great option! Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 3 months in the freezer.

How do I reheat the chicken rice bake?
To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave for a quick option.

What can I serve with this meal?
This dish pairs well with salads, steamed vegetables, or a side of hummus and pita for a complete meal.

Any tips for avoiding common mistakes?
Make sure to cover the baking dish tightly with foil to keep the moisture in. If you leave it uncovered, the rice may turn out dry. Also, be sure to fluff the rice at the end to keep it from becoming gummy.