Serbian rice

Rice with vegetables and oven-baked chicken: a quick and delicious dish

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you are looking for a simple, quick, and extremely tasty recipe, you have come to the right place! Rice with vegetables and oven-baked chicken is a dish that combines the delicious flavors of fresh vegetables with the fluffy texture of rice and the savoriness of chicken, transforming it into a meal that enriches any table. This recipe is inspired by diverse culinary traditions where rice is a staple ingredient used in countless dishes. Let's begin the culinary adventure!

Ingredients:
- 4 large, ripe tomatoes
- 2 peppers (one red and one green)
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 cup of rice (about 200g)
- 2 chicken thighs (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 100 ml sunflower or olive oil
- 3 cups of water (about 750 ml)

Preparing the vegetables

1. Start by washing all the vegetables well under cold running water. Cleaning the vegetables is essential to remove any pesticides or impurities.
2. Chop the onion into small cubes, the carrot into thin rounds, and the pepper into cubes. The tomatoes can be diced or quartered, depending on your preference. It is best to use ripe tomatoes, as they will add a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.

Helpful tip: You can use seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to diversify the recipe.

Cooking the vegetables

3. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
4. Add the carrot and pepper to the pan. Let the vegetables sauté together for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly to cook evenly.
5. Finally, add the chopped tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Gently stir to avoid crushing the tomatoes and let them cook for a minute. It is important not to overcook them, as you want to retain some of their juice.

Preparing the rice

6. Meanwhile, rinse the rice well under cold running water to remove the starch. This step will help achieve less sticky rice.
7. In a baking dish, layer rice followed by a layer of vegetables. Continue alternating between rice and vegetables until all ingredients are used. This arrangement is not only aesthetically pleasing but also allows the flavors to blend perfectly during baking.

Adding the meat

8. If you choose to use chicken thighs, you can place them on top of the rice and vegetables. They will add extra flavor to the dish. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit them completely.
9. Carefully pour the 3 cups of water into the dish, making sure not to disturb the layers created.

Baking

10. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 40 minutes. It is important to check occasionally, as each oven bakes differently. The rice should absorb all the water and become tender.

Final tip: If you want a slightly crispy crust on top, you can remove the lid of the dish for the last 10 minutes of baking.

Serving

Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. You can serve it either warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference. A side of yogurt or tzatziki sauce is perfect to complement this dish, adding a refreshing note.

Nutritional benefits

This rice with vegetables and chicken is not only tasty but also nutritious. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, while carrots provide a considerable amount of vitamin A. Chicken brings essential proteins, and rice is a good source of carbohydrates, ensuring the necessary energy throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but the cooking time will be different, so make sure to follow the instructions on the brown rice package.

2. What other vegetables can I add to the recipe?
There are many options! You can use zucchini, mushrooms, or even green peas.

3. How can I make the recipe spicier?
If you like spicy food, add a little chili pepper or chili flakes to the vegetable mix.

Possible variations

This recipe allows for many variations. You can experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey or pork, or opt for a vegetarian version by adding tofu or tempeh. You can also try adding spices like curry or cumin to change the flavor profile of the dish.

This oven-baked rice with vegetables and chicken is a versatile recipe, easily adaptable to your culinary preferences. So, don't hesitate to personalize it and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones! Bon appétit!