Easy Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced into bite-size pieces
02 -
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
03 -
1 medium zucchini, coarsely grated (about 1½ cups)
04 -
2 cups chicken broth
→ Marinade Base
05 -
2 tablespoons lemon juice
06 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Fresh Herbs
07 -
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or ½ teaspoon dried)
08 -
1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or ½ teaspoon dried)
09 -
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or ¼ teaspoon dried)
→ Seasonings
10 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 -
¾ teaspoon seasoned salt
12 -
½ teaspoon cumin
13 -
½ teaspoon onion powder
14 -
½ teaspoon garlic powder
15 -
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
16 -
¼ teaspoon turmeric
17 -
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
→ For Serving
18 -
Tzatziki sauce
19 -
Pita bread
20 -
Fresh herbs (dill, basil, parsley, or chives)
21 -
Fresh lemon
# Instructions:
01 -
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
02 -
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.
03 -
Add the uncooked rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth to the pan with the marinated chicken. Stir everything together well.
04 -
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.
05 -
Fluff the rice with a fork, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve topped with tzatziki sauce, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon.
# Notes:
01 -
Only use long grain white rice - brown rice, wild rice, or instant rice won't work with these liquid ratios and cooking times.
02 -
Use smoked paprika specifically for that authentic charred flavor similar to grilled souvlaki.
03 -
Covering the dish tightly is crucial to prevent steam from escaping while cooking.