Name: Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1½ cups uncooked basmati rice; 6 chicken thighs; 1½ tsp mixed herbs; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup chopped onion (any type of onion works); 1 tbsp butter; 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup green onions (for garnish; substitute with chives, parsley, or coriander)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting meal, this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a must-try. This one-pan recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory chicken thighs, fragrant basmati rice, and flavorful seasonings creates a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that can easily be customized with ingredients you already have on hand. With its wholesome ingredients and hearty flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal planning rotation.

The key to this recipe’s success lies in the seasoning. The chicken thighs are coated in a delicious blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and mixed herbs, which infuses both the rice and the chicken with incredible flavor. Cooking everything in one pan makes cleanup a breeze, and the simplicity of the method means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Paired with tzatziki, this dish is perfect for those who love Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing a meal for yourself, this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a great option that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice recipe is loved for its simplicity, convenience, and taste. Not only is it made with just a few basic ingredients, but it’s also a one-pan dish, making cleanup quick and easy. The flavors are rich and aromatic, with the chicken thighs absorbing all the spices while the rice soaks up the chicken stock. Plus, the creamy tzatziki adds a refreshing touch to the dish, perfectly complementing the savory elements. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers a satisfying and flavorful solution. It’s also versatile — you can adjust the spices or substitute ingredients to suit your personal preferences. This dish is a surefire way to impress your taste buds and enjoy a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Rice:

Uncooked basmati rice
Chicken thighs
Mixed herbs
Smoked paprika
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Olive oil
Onion (chopped)
Butter
Low sodium chicken stock
Salt and pepper
Green onions (for garnish, or substitute with chives, parsley, or coriander)

Variations

This dish is highly adaptable, allowing you to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Here are a few variations to consider:

Add Vegetables: You can toss in some vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts over thighs, feel free to substitute them. However, make sure to adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
Switch the Rice: If you don’t have basmati rice, you can use jasmine rice or even quinoa for a slightly different texture.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
Swap Tzatziki for Yogurt: If you’re not a fan of tzatziki, you can serve the dish with plain yogurt or even a drizzle of hummus for a Mediterranean twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning

In a small mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, mixed herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and set aside.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Rinse the rice until the water runs clear and set it aside. In a large bowl, add the chicken thighs and coat them with the seasoning mixture, reserving about a teaspoon of the seasoning for later. Mix well until the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Carefully add the chicken, skin side down, and sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside. If there’s excess oil, blot it with a kitchen towel.

Step 4: Sauté the Onions and Toast the Rice

In the same pan, add the chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in the rinsed rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Stock and Seasoning

Pour in the chicken stock, add the reserved seasoning, and stir to combine. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze, so nothing burns. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Arrange the Chicken and Cook

Arrange the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice, then cover the pan with its lid. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, or coriander. Let the dish rest for 3 minutes before serving. Serve with a side of tzatziki, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t skip searing the chicken: Searing the chicken gives it a beautiful golden crust and adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Adjust the liquid ratio for different rice: If you’re using a different type of rice, such as brown rice, make sure to adjust the amount of liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Ensure the rice is fully cooked: If the rice isn’t tender after 20 minutes, add a little more chicken stock or water and cook for an additional few minutes.
Use a non-stick pan: A non-stick pan will help prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning.

How to Serve

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a meal on its own, but it can also be paired with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or warm pita bread. You can serve the tzatziki on the side or spoon it over the chicken and rice for a cool, creamy contrast. For an added touch, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese or olives on top for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to keep it moist.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating on the stovetop, add a little bit of chicken stock or water to the rice to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts cook faster than thighs.

2. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can substitute basmati rice with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio to suit the type of rice.

3. How do I prevent the rice from burning?

Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan when you deglaze, and cook the dish over low to medium heat to avoid burning the rice.

4. Can I make this in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken and rice. After searing the chicken and sautéing the onions and rice, transfer everything to a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

6. How long does this dish take to cook?

The total cooking time is approximately 35-40 minutes, depending on the type of rice used.

7. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

While you can use pre-cooked chicken, it’s best to add it during the final few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

8. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.

9. How do I know when the rice is fully cooked?

The rice should be tender and the liquid should be fully absorbed. If it’s not fully cooked, add a bit more chicken stock or water and continue cooking.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. If you do, make sure to adjust the cooking time and use a larger pan to accommodate the increased quantity.

Conclusion

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that will become a favorite in your kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant rice, and Mediterranean-inspired seasonings makes for a comforting, satisfying meal. With minimal prep and clean-up, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences. Try it today, and enjoy a tasty and stress-free dinner!