Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice Recipe

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice recipe is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and ease. It takes the classic flavors of tender chicken thighs, seasoned with smoked paprika and herbs, paired with fluffy basmati rice, and drenched in a savory chicken stock base. All of this is topped with a refreshing garnish of green onions. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity — no complicated prep, no lengthy cooking process — just dump everything into one pan and let the magic happen. The result is a dish that’s incredibly satisfying, with golden-brown, crispy chicken on top of perfectly cooked rice. The addition of tzatziki-style seasonings makes it extra refreshing and gives a Mediterranean twist that is both vibrant and savory. Whether you’re cooking for a family weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to be a winner.

This dish delivers on all fronts: it’s hearty, flavorful, quick, and easy to clean up, making it an ideal go-to meal when you want something comforting yet fresh. So, let’s dive in and learn how you can make this easy and delicious one-pot meal yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe requires minimal prep and can be ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy days when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.

2. One-Pan Wonder

No need to deal with multiple pots and pans. Everything cooks in one pan, making both the cooking process and the cleanup afterward super simple.

3. Flavorful and Tender Chicken

With the smoky paprika, mixed herbs, and the sear on the chicken, the chicken thighs come out incredibly flavorful and juicy.

4. Customizable

You can tweak the ingredients and seasoning to suit your preferences, adding your own twists like adding vegetables or using different herbs.

5. Family-Friendly

This recipe is guaranteed to please everyone, from picky eaters to the more adventurous. The combination of seasoned chicken, savory rice, and simple ingredients makes it a meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• Uncooked basmati rice
• Chicken thighs
• Mixed herbs
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil
• Onion (any type)
• Butter
• Low sodium chicken stock
• Salt and pepper
• Green onions (for garnish)

Variations

• Rice Variations: While basmati rice is used in this recipe, you can swap it for jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa, depending on your preference.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to the rice for added nutrition and flavor.
• Chicken Variations: You can use skinless, boneless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts if you prefer. For a quicker version, opt for boneless cuts.
• Herb Variations: Switch out the mixed herbs for Italian seasoning, herbs de Provence, or your own favorite dried herbs to match your taste.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, mixed herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside about a teaspoon of this mixture for later use. Coat the chicken thighs with the seasoning mixture, ensuring they’re evenly covered.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear them for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

In the same pan, add chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and translucent. Then, add butter and allow it to melt, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Stir in the rinsed rice and toast it for about 1-2 minutes, making sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Add the Chicken Stock

Pour the chicken stock over the rice, add the reserved seasoning mixture, and stir to combine. Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze, ensuring no rice sticks.

Step 6: Cook the Rice and Chicken

Arrange the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice. Cover the pot with its lid and reduce the heat to low-medium. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender, fluffy, and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the rice is done, garnish with chopped green onions. Let it sit for about 3 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Adjust for Rice Type: If you’re using a different type of rice, adjust the cooking time and liquid ratios accordingly.
• Avoid Dry Chicken: Don’t worry if the chicken appears dry on top when done. Stir it gently into the rice, and it will become moist and tender.
• Add Extra Flavor: For a burst of freshness, you can squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken and rice before serving.

How to Serve

This dish is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal. For a more indulgent twist, serve it with a dollop of tzatziki or a drizzle of your favorite yogurt-based sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added chicken stock to prevent the rice from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly.

Reheating

Reheat in a pan on low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to bring back the moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well in this recipe. Just be sure not to overcook them, as they cook faster than thighs.

2. Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?

Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly.

3. Can I make this recipe without onions?

Yes, you can skip the onions if you prefer. You can replace them with other vegetables or simply enjoy the dish without them.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix to give the dish a spicy kick.

5. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, after searing the chicken and sautéing the onions, transfer everything to an oven-safe dish and bake it at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes.

6. How do I prevent the rice from burning?

Make sure to stir the rice occasionally, deglaze the pan, and check the heat to avoid the rice sticking to the bottom.

7. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the rice for extra nutrition.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this recipe freezes well. Store the chicken and rice in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

9. What can I substitute for green onions?

You can substitute green onions with chives, parsley, or cilantro.

10. Can I use chicken stock from a box?

Yes, you can use store-bought chicken stock, but make sure to choose low-sodium stock to control the salt levels.

Conclusion

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice is a perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and comfort. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s packed with flavor, making it an ideal option for a quick family dinner or a meal prep solution. Its customizable nature allows you to experiment with different seasonings, vegetables, and even protein variations. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a hassle-free yet satisfying meal!

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