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Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice

Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice for Cozy Nights

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki Rice is a simple, gluten-free, and dairy-free dish that transforms weeknight dinners with rich Mediterranean flavors.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Marinade
  • 2 pieces Boneless Chicken Breast or Thighs Skinless cuts work best for quick cooking.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed adds brightness.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Helps keep chicken moist.
For the Rice Base
  • 1 cup Long Grain White Rice Ensure it’s uncooked.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Grated for optimal blending.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
For the Seasonings
  • 1 cup Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Oregano, Thyme) Can use dried if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Customize spice levels.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Tzatziki Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Dill, Basil, Chives) Optional for garnish.
For Serving
  • 4 pieces Pita Bread Ensure gluten-free options if needed.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  3. Combine the chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs/spices in a bowl and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Add rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth to the baking dish and mix well.
  5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 40 minutes.
  6. Remove foil and check rice tenderness; cover and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes if needed.
  7. Fluff the rice with a fork and adjust seasonings as necessary.
  8. Serve topped with tzatziki and fresh herbs, alongside warmed pita bread.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes and avoid lifting the foil during cooking to keep moisture trapped.

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