Description
A simple and flavorful one-pan dump bake featuring marinated chicken, herbed rice, and zucchini, topped with cool tzatziki sauce. This Greek-inspired dish is perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1/4 tsp dried)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 medium zucchini, grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- For Serving:
- Tzatziki sauce
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Chopped herbs (dill, parsley, basil, or chives)
- Pita bread or flatbread
Instructions
- In a baking dish, combine diced chicken, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, seasoned salt, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Let marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Add uncooked long grain white rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth to the baking dish. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
- Bake for 45–60 minutes, depending on your pan type (45–50 minutes for metal, 50–60 minutes for glass or ceramic), or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork to fluff the rice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, topped with tzatziki sauce, fresh herbs, and lemon wedges. Offer pita bread on the side.
Notes
- Use only long grain white rice; brown or instant rice will not cook evenly.
- Ensure the baking dish is covered tightly with foil to trap steam, which is essential for cooking the rice.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a richer flavor and more moisture.
- Add spinach or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Serve the tzatziki sauce just before eating to maintain its cool temperature and contrast with the warm dish.
- This recipe is ideal for gluten-free diets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving