Djuvec (Balkan Chicken & Rice Casserole)

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: pork

Turkey is leaner, while pork is often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: sunflower oil

Avocado oil offers health benefits, while sunflower oil is budget-friendly.

bell peppers

🥗Healthier: cucumbers

💰Cheaper: frozen mixed vegetables

Cucumbers provide crunch without calories, and frozen veggies are economical.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Homemade broth is nutritious, while seasoned water is cost-effective.

In a pan, sauté the onion and garlic (if using) in a little oil.

Add the chicken cubes and fry briefly until they turn white.

Add the vegetable mix, rice, tomato purée, and seasonings (salt, pepper, seasoning mix, paprika).

Transfer everything into a baking dish, pour in water until just covered (about 1 cup – up to 200 ml).

Cover and bake for 30 minutes at 200°C.

Remove the foil, stir, and bake for another 10–15 minutes until a nice crust forms.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: