Description
This Chicken Tzatziki Bake Surprise is a delightful one-pan meal that combines tender baked chicken thighs with flavorful rice infused with garlic and chicken broth. Topped off with cool, creamy tzatziki, fresh dill, and a splash of lemon, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory and refreshing flavors in an easy-to-make oven-baked recipe.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 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 & Garnish
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce
- Fresh dill for garnish
- Lemon for garnish and squeezing
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine rice and seasoning: In the greased baking dish, mix together the long grain rice, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined, making sure the rice is evenly coated with the liquid and seasonings.
- Arrange chicken thighs: Season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper. Nestle the thighs evenly spaced on top of the rice mixture, ensuring each piece is partially submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add tzatziki and garnish: Carefully remove the foil and take the dish out of the oven. Spoon the tzatziki sauce generously over the chicken thighs. Sprinkle fresh dill over the top and finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Serve: Serve the bake hot directly from the dish, enjoying the combination of savory baked chicken and rice with the cool tzatziki topping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken thighs in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes before baking.
- Long grain rice works best; avoid minute rice as it may become mushy with cooking times provided.
- If you prefer, substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts but reduce baking time to prevent drying out.
- Make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil to allow the rice to steam and cook evenly.
- Tzatziki can be store-bought or homemade using yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
