Name: Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Serbian
Ingredients: 160 g basmati rice; 350 g chicken breast fillet; 250 g tomato passata (or strained tomatoes); 100 g peas; 2 bell peppers; 450 ml vegetable broth; 2 garlic cloves; 1 onion; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or hot paprika

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Oh, I can’t wait to share this Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe with you! This dish is one of those comforting, flavorful meals that really hits the spot when you want something hearty but not too complicated. It’s a beautiful harmony of tender chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered in a rich tomato and vegetable broth that makes it irresistibly delicious. Honestly, it’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for dinner any night of the week.

What makes this Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe truly special is how the spices and fresh ingredients work together so effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it brings people around the table. Plus, it’s pretty forgiving if you’re new to this kind of dish—just follow along and you’ll impress yourself (trust me, I’ve had my fair share of kitchen experiments!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this recipe complement each other perfectly, bringing fresh, savory, and slightly spicy notes to every bite. When shopping, I find that choosing fresh bell peppers and good quality chicken really elevates the final dish, so don’t rush those details—you’ll taste the difference!

Basmati rice: I love basmati because it stays fluffy and doesn’t get sticky, which is key for this recipe.
Tomato passata (strained tomatoes): It gives a natural sweetness and a smooth texture that balancers the spices beautifully.
Peas: Fresh or frozen both work; they add a nice pop of color and sweetness.
Bell peppers: Choose colorful ones to brighten up the dish and add a mild crunch.
Vegetable broth: A rich broth brings deep flavor—homemade or store-bought, just check the salt content.
Chicken breast fillet: It cooks quickly and stays tender; cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Salt: Season carefully; you can always add more later but can’t take it out!
Sweet paprika: This is classic for Serbian dishes and gives a gentle, smoky flavor.
Cayenne pepper or hot paprika: Adjust to your preferred heat level; it gives a nice kick without overpowering.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic is a must here for that aromatic punch.
Onion: Use a medium-sized one for the perfect base sweetness and depth.

Variations

One of the best things about this Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe is how adaptable it is. Sometimes, I swap out the chicken for beef or try turkey for a leaner twist. Feel free to personalize based on what you like or what’s in season—that’s part of the fun!

Variation: I once used smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika and loved the deeper smoky flavor—it made the dish feel a bit more rustic.
Vegetarian option: Try swapping the chicken with mushrooms and adding more veggies like zucchini or eggplant; it’s delicious that way too.
Heat adjustment: If you’re cooking for kids, dial back the cayenne pepper and add a bit more sweet paprika instead.
Seasonal veggies: Fresh tomatoes, corn, or even carrots can be tossed in to keep it fresh and vibrant throughout the year.

How to Make Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic—these little guys build a huge flavor base. Dice the bell peppers evenly and cut your chicken breast into bite-sized cubes so they cook evenly. Rinse your basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear; this helps keep it fluffy and separate.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken

Heat a splash of oil in a large pan over medium heat, then toss in the onion and garlic. Stir frequently until soft and fragrant—that cozy aroma is the first sign you’re on the right track. Add the chicken pieces next, seasoning them lightly with salt, sweet paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the chicken is just browned on the outside but not fully cooked through yet.

Step 3: Add Vegetables, Rice, and Liquids

Now stir in the diced bell peppers, peas, and rinsed rice. Pour in the vegetable broth and tomato passata—this combination steams the rice while infusing it with juicy, tangy flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 4: Simmer and Finish

Let everything simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes. Resist lifting the lid too often—that steam is what cooks the rice perfectly. When the liquid’s mostly absorbed and the rice is tender, check that the chicken is cooked through. If anything needs a little more time, just cover and give it a few extra minutes.

How to Serve Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe

Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I love to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill on top before serving—it adds a fresh burst of color and flavor that really wakes up this dish. A dollop of sour cream on the side is also a classic Serbian touch that adds creaminess and balances the spices.

Side Dishes

Serve this Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe alongside a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with vinegar and oil. Sometimes, I also enjoy warm, crusty bread or a side of roasted root vegetables to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate this dish in shallow bowls and top with a ring of grilled bell pepper strips for added visual flair. It looks rustic yet refined—plus, sharing it family-style in a big cast iron pan adds to the cozy vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and they last really well for up to 3 days. Because this dish has rice, be sure to cool it quickly and refrigerate promptly to keep it safe and tasty.

Freezing

Freezing Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe works great for me. I portion it in freezer-safe containers and it keeps well for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw overnight in the fridge to keep the texture intact.

Reheating

When reheating, I recommend warming it gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to refresh the rice and prevent it from drying out. Microwave works too, but stir halfway through and cover with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe?

While basmati rice is ideal because of its fragrance and how it cooks fluffy without sticking, you can substitute jasmine or long-grain rice if needed. Avoid short-grain varieties like sushi rice, as they tend to be too sticky and won’t give the same texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with hearty vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant, and add an extra cup of peas or beans for protein. The tomato passata and spices make it flavorful enough that you won’t miss the meat.
How spicy is this Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe?

The recipe has a gentle kick thanks to the cayenne or hot paprika, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your preference. For less spice, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use more sweet paprika for color and flavor.
Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, this dish keeps well and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it properly in the fridge and reheat gently when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe?

A simple salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables make great sides to balance the meal. Fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream on top are also traditional and delicious accompaniments.

Final Thoughts

This Serbian Rice and Meat with Vegetables Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen—it’s the kind of meal I turn to when I want something comforting yet flavorful without endless fuss. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do. Give it a try, and I’m pretty sure it’ll become one of your go-to dishes too—easy, cozy, and packed with taste!