Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, and red pepper flakes.
• Add the chicken breasts or thighs, making sure they’re well coated in the marinade.
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate for 2 hours or up to overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce

• Grate the cucumber and squeeze out excess moisture using a paper towel or cheesecloth.
• In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, dill, and parsley.
• Stir until well combined and refrigerate until ready to use. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

• Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
• In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and turmeric, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring to a boil.
• Add the rinsed rice, stir once, and lower the heat to a simmer.
• Cover and cook for 15-18 minutes, until the rice is tender and fluffy.
• Remove from heat, add lemon juice, fluff the rice with a fork, and cover to keep warm.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

• Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess.
• Cook for 5-6 minutes per side (for breasts) or 4-5 minutes per side (for thighs) until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Transfer to a plate, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

• Divide the cooked rice evenly into bowls or plates.
• Slice the chicken and place it on top of the rice.
• Spoon tzatziki sauce over the chicken or serve on the side.
• Add cherry tomatoes, red onions, feta cheese, and olives as desired.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, protein-packed Chicken Tzatziki and Rice!