Description
This comforting Mediterranean-inspired chicken tzatziki casserole is the perfect one-pan meal for busy households. By combining tender chicken breast, fluffy rice, and a zesty, cooling yogurt sauce infused with garlic and fresh herbs, this dish delivers a balanced, flavorful dinner without hours in the kitchen. The oven-steaming technique ensures your chicken stays succulent and your rice perfectly tender, making it an effortless and healthy choice for a stress-free weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1.5 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
3 cups chicken broth (halal/no wine)
2 cups Greek yogurt
1 large cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the uncooked rice and chicken broth.
Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the oregano, then nestle them into the rice and broth.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
While the chicken bakes, prepare the tzatziki by mixing the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, remaining oregano, lemon juice, and fresh dill in a medium bowl.
Remove the casserole from the oven, stir the mixture gently, and spoon the prepared tzatziki over the top in an even layer.
Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is fluffy.
Notes
Ensure the cucumber is squeezed very well to avoid a watery casserole. You can customize by adding halved cherry tomatoes or olives before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Meals
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean