Easy Family Dinner (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Dish Components

01 - 1 pound of tender chicken (choose from boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs), cut into perfect bite-sized morsels
02 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice for that bright Mediterranean zing
03 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
04 - 1 cup premium long-grain white rice (not instant, wild, or brown varieties)
05 - 1 medium zucchini, beautifully coarsely grated (yields approximately 1½ cups)
06 - 2 cups rich, flavorful chicken broth

→ Herb and Spice Symphony

07 - 1 tablespoon vibrant fresh parsley, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried if needed)
08 - 1 teaspoon fresh oregano leaves, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried herbs)
09 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, delicately chopped (can substitute with ¼ teaspoon dried)
10 - 1 teaspoon premium smoked paprika for deep, smoky notes
11 - ¾ teaspoon perfectly balanced seasoned salt (Lawry's works wonderfully)
12 - ½ teaspoon aromatic ground cumin
13 - ½ teaspoon onion powder for subtle sweetness
14 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder to round out the flavors
15 - ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
16 - ¼ teaspoon golden turmeric for color and health benefits
17 - Pinch of cayenne pepper (⅛ teaspoon) for a gentle kick

→ Garnish and Serving Essentials

18 - Cool, creamy tzatziki sauce for topping
19 - Warm, pillowy pita bread
20 - Fresh herbs of your choice: dill, basil, parsley, or chives
21 - Bright lemon wedges for a final squeeze of sunshine

# Instructions:

01 - Gently coat a spacious 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or brush with oil—this prevents sticking and creates a perfect foundation for your masterpiece.
02 - In your prepared vessel, artfully combine the chicken pieces with lemon juice, olive oil, and your complete aromatic blend of herbs and spices. Massage the seasonings into every crevice, ensuring each morsel is kissed with Mediterranean magic. Allow this to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes as flavors meld beautifully.
03 - While the chicken luxuriates in its spice bath, warm your oven to 375°F (190°C), creating the perfect environment for this one-dish wonder.
04 - To your marinated chicken, introduce the uncooked rice, freshly grated zucchini, and chicken broth. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring every grain of rice settles into its flavorful new home.
05 - Drape your dish snugly with foil, creating a steamy cocoon where magic happens. Slide into your preheated oven for 40 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
06 - After 40 minutes, carefully lift a corner of foil and taste a grain of rice. It should be tender with most liquid absorbed. If still firm, reseal and continue baking for 5-10 more minutes, checking periodically. Remember: glass dishes may require slightly longer than metal pans.
07 - With a gentle touch, fluff the rice using a fork (never mash with a spoon!). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The rice should be light, separate, and perfectly infused with flavor.
08 - Crown each serving with a dollop of cool tzatziki, shower with fresh herbs, and nestle alongside warm pita. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon for that final flourish of brightness.

# Notes:

01 - This recipe demands traditional long-grain white rice—brown rice, wild rice, or instant varieties will disrupt the perfect harmony of cooking times and liquid absorption
02 - Smoked paprika is non-negotiable here; its smoky essence recreates the charred notes of classic grilled shawarma and souvlaki
03 - A tight foil seal is crucial—you're creating a steam-powered flavor infusion system where every drop of liquid matters
04 - Timing is everything: vigilance prevents mushy rice, while patience ensures perfect tenderness
05 - Always fluff with a fork to maintain that beautiful, fluffy texture—spoons compact the rice into dense, uninspired clumps

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