Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake

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Introduction

Indulge in a delightful fusion of flavors with this Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With the creaminess of Greek yogurt and the zest of fresh cucumber, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried dill
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Directions and Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. In another bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced chicken, and half of the yogurt mixture. Mix well.
4. Spread the rice and chicken mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining yogurt mixture over the top.
6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and cherry tomatoes evenly over the dish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes or Tips

• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.
• This dish pairs well with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Cooking Techniques

For this recipe, layering and even baking are key. Make sure to spread the rice mixture evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly and the flavors meld beautifully.

FAQ

• Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, brown rice will work, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Is there a vegetarian alternative? You can substitute chicken with chickpeas or another protein of your choice.
• How can I make it spicier? Add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the yogurt mixture for a kick.

Conclusion

This Chicken Tzatziki Rice Bake is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that will brighten your dinner table. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
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