Description
Bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with this fresh and flavorful dish. Juicy, marinated chicken, fragrant rice with zucchini, and a dollop of creamy tzatziki come together for a wholesome meal that’s quick, easy, and satisfying. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining!
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Marinade
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (or ¼ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¾ teaspoon seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
For the Rice
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 medium zucchini, grated (about 1 ½ cups)
- 2 cups chicken broth
For Serving
- Tzatziki sauce
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, basil, or chives)
- Lemon wedges
- Optional: Pita bread
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a baking dish, combine lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, seasoned salt, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, turmeric, and cayenne.
- Add the diced chicken, tossing to coat thoroughly. Let marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 8 hours.
- Prepare the Rice:
- Add the uncooked rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth to the marinated chicken in the baking dish. Stir to distribute evenly.
- Bake the Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- If the rice needs more cooking, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon the chicken and rice mixture into bowls or plates.
- Top with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
- Serve with pita bread if desired.
Notes
- Grate Zucchini Coarsely: It adds moisture and blends well into the rice without being overpowering.
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken in advance to save time.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Ensure the tzatziki and pita bread (if used) are gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven-Baked
- Cuisine: Mediterranean