Description
Take your taste buds on a Mediterranean journey with this irresistible Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake—a perfect combination of juicy, herb-marinated chicken, fluffy lemon-scented rice, and a dollop of creamy, garlicky tzatziki. This easy dinner recipe is ideal for weeknight meals, meal prep, or healthy dinner ideas that don’t skimp on flavor. The textures are unbeatable: tender chicken, light rice, and that cold, velvety yogurt sauce with a burst of cucumber freshness. If you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, healthy meal options, or food ideas for the whole family, this dish checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into large chunks)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth (warm)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For the Tzatziki:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup grated cucumber (squeezed dry)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill or mint (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss chicken in the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Tzatziki: Mix yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dill or mint, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Rice: Spread rinsed rice in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Pour in warm broth, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and parsley.
- Add Chicken: Arrange marinated chicken pieces on top of the rice in a single layer.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Uncover and bake for 15-20 more minutes until chicken is golden and rice is fluffy.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 5-10 minutes. Top with tzatziki and extra herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes