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–+ servings
Melany

Mediterranean Chicken Tzatziki with Rice – Fresh and Flavorful!

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!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

Prepare the Marinade:
  1. 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.
  2. 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:
  1. Add the uncooked rice, grated zucchini, and chicken broth to the marinated chicken in the baking dish. Stir to distribute evenly.
Bake the Dish:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 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.
  3. If the rice needs more cooking, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
Assemble and Serve:
  1. Spoon the chicken and rice mixture into bowls or plates.
  2. Top with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce and garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
  3. 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.

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