Description
A simple and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender baked chicken breasts served with fluffy white rice cooked in savory chicken broth, topped with creamy tzatziki sauce and fresh parsley. This dump-and-bake recipe makes for an easy yet delicious dinner that requires minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Toppings
- 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Season Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in the baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over them and season thoroughly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance their flavor.
- Mix Rice and Broth: In a separate bowl, combine the rice with the chicken broth. Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Add Rice Mixture: Pour the rice and broth mixture around the chicken breasts in the baking dish, making sure to spread it out evenly.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the rice is tender.
- Finish with Tzatziki: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Spoon the creamy tzatziki sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and rice warm for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- The use of foil helps steam the rice and keep the chicken moist.
- Homemade tzatziki can add a fresher taste but store-bought works well for convenience.
- Feel free to substitute long-grain white rice with jasmine or basmati for fragrance.
- Check chicken temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid under or overcooking.
