Oven-baked chicken with Serbian pilaf

Roasted Chicken with Festive Pilaf – Delicious Recipe for a Memorable Lunch

When it comes to traditional dishes that remind us of festive family meals, roasted chicken with festive pilaf is certainly on the list of favorites. This recipe not only offers an authentic and comforting taste but also a wonderful way to gather the whole family around the table. With rich flavors and diverse textures, each bite is a celebration of taste. Let’s embark together on the preparation of this savory dish!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 small chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 cup of rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- Chicken seasoning (salt, pepper, thyme, sweet paprika)
- 1 large onion
- 1 small carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 cup of homemade vegetable mix (a blend of tomatoes and peppers)
- 1/4 cup of freshly chopped parsley
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
- Water (as needed)

Brief history of the recipe
Roasted chicken with pilaf is a dish that has been passed down from generation to generation. Its origins are rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, where chicken was often associated with special occasions. Pilafs, on the other hand, have a long history, being made from rice and vegetables in countless variations. This dish combines the essence of these traditions, bringing together unique flavors and textures.

Step by step: preparing the chicken
1. Preparing the chicken: Start by cutting the chicken into portions. Wash each piece well under cold running water and, after drying them with a paper towel, brush them with olive oil. This step will help the spices adhere better to the meat.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle a mix of spices – salt, pepper, thyme, and if desired, a little sweet paprika for a touch of color and a smoky flavor – on each piece of chicken. Let the chicken absorb the flavors for 15 minutes.

3. Baking the chicken: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a deep baking dish, add a little oil and water, then place the seasoned chicken pieces. Put the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 40 minutes. Check periodically, basting the chicken with the juices from the dish to prevent it from drying out.

4. Perfecting the chicken: When the meat is almost cooked, remove the chicken from the dish and place it on a baking tray lined with greased parchment paper. This will help achieve a crispy crust. Put it back in the oven for another 15-20 minutes until it becomes golden and appetizing.

Preparing the pilaf
1. The vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a little oil and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then add the diced bell pepper and grated carrot. Continue to sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

2. Adding the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then add it to the skillet over the vegetables. Mix well and let it sauté for 1-2 minutes so that the rice absorbs the flavors.

3. Cooking the pilaf: Pour the chicken broth, that is, the liquid in which the chicken was cooked, over the rice. If necessary, add water until the liquid covers the rice by about 1.5 cm. Let the pilaf simmer on low heat, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

4. Finishing the pilaf: When the rice is ready, add the homemade vegetable mix and adjust the taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving
Serve the roasted chicken alongside the pilaf, decorating the plate with a fresh salad, such as pickled cucumbers or a green salad with tomatoes. This combination is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Tips and tricks
- If you want an extra flavor, you can add a few halved garlic cloves to the dish with the chicken.
- For a richer pilaf, you can add some olives or roasted cashews.
- Make sure to choose a quality chicken, preferably free-range, for a better taste.
- If you prefer the vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms or seasonal vegetables, and the liquid for the pilaf can be made from vegetable broth.

Frequently asked questions
1. What type of rice is best for pilaf?
Long-grain rice is the most suitable as it separates well and remains fluffy.

2. Can I prepare the chicken a day in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and pilaf a day in advance, and then reheat them the next day. The flavors intensify even more.

3. How can I enhance the flavor of the pilaf?
You can add some spices like saffron or cardamom for a more exotic taste.

Roasted chicken with festive pilaf is not only a nutritious dish but also a way to bring joy and warmth to the family. Whether it’s a special occasion or an ordinary lunch, this recipe will turn the meal into a true celebration of taste. Enjoy your meal!