Description
This easy, one-pan Dump-and-Bake Chicken Tzatziki with Rice combines tender, flavorful chicken thighs with aromatic rice, all cooked in a savory, herbed chicken stock. It’s topped with a zesty tzatziki-inspired garnish and makes for a quick, no-fuss family dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ cups uncooked basmati rice
- 6 chicken thighs
- 1 ½ tsp mixed herbs
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion (any type of onion works)
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 cups low sodium chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup green onions (for garnish; can substitute with chives, parsley, or coriander)
Instructions
- Prep the Seasoning: In a small mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, mixed herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice until the water runs clear, then set aside.
- Season the Chicken: Add chicken thighs to a large bowl and toss with the seasoning mixture, reserving about a teaspoon for later. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside. If there is excess oil, blot it with a kitchen towel.
- Sauté the Onions: In the same pan, sauté the chopped onions in the hot oil until soft and translucent. Add butter and stir until melted.
- Toast the Rice: Stir in the rinsed rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Simmer the Rice: Pour the chicken stock over the rice and stir in the reserved seasoning. Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Cook the Dish: Arrange the chicken thighs over the rice, then cover the pot with its lid. Cook on low-medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender, fluffy, and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions or preferred herbs. Let it stand for 3 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- If using a different type of rice, adjust the liquid ratio and cooking time.
- The top of the chicken might look dry when the dish is ready, but this is normal. Stir the chicken into the rice without tearing it for a beautiful presentation.
- For an even richer flavor, you can add spinach or extra veggies to the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Main Course, One-Pot Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Comfort Food