Description
Chicken Tzatziki Bake Surprise is a comforting one-dish meal featuring tender chicken thighs baked on a bed of flavorful rice infused with chicken broth and garlic. Finished with a cool dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce, fresh dill, and a squeeze of lemon, this oven-baked recipe offers a delightful harmony of Mediterranean flavors perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Rice
- 1½ lbs chicken thighs
- 1 cup long grain rice
- 2½ cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
- Fresh dill for garnish
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Rice Base: In the prepared baking dish, combine the long grain rice, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Season and Place Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Arrange them evenly on top of the rice mixture, pressing down slightly so they nestle into the rice.
- Cover and Bake: Tightly cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove Cover and Add Toppings: Carefully remove the foil. Spread the tzatziki sauce over the chicken thighs, then garnish with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Serve: Serve the bake hot, spooning rice and chicken onto plates with generous amounts of tzatziki and garnishes.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for faster cooking and easier eating.
- If you prefer, substitute brown rice but increase baking time and liquid accordingly.
- Make your own tzatziki by combining Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill for freshest taste.
- Ensure the baking dish is tightly covered with foil to trap steam and cook the rice properly.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
