Bosnian Chicken and Vegetable Casserole
Piletina sa Povrćem iz Tepsije
A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring tender chicken pieces baked with a medley of seasonal vegetables in a rich, savory sauce. This dish is a staple in Bosnian homes, offering a wholesome and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 800 g Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into chunks
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 Large onions, chopped
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium Carrots, peeled and sliced
- 500 g Potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 medium Bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
- 1 medium Zucchini, chopped
- 400 g can Canned chopped tomatoes
- 300 ml Chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Paprika (sweet)
- 1 tsp Dried mixed herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme, oregano)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
💡 Tip: Preheating ensures even cooking from the start. - 2
In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
💡 Tip: Seasoning the chicken directly helps distribute flavor. - 3
Heat the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
💡 Tip: Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor and color. - 4
Add the chopped onions to the same skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
💡 Tip: Sautéing the aromatics builds a flavor base for the casserole. - 5
Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, chopped bell peppers, and zucchini to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
💡 Tip: Ensure all vegetables are roughly the same size for even cooking. - 6
Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, and dried mixed herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Taste the sauce before adding to the oven to adjust seasoning. - 7
Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them among the vegetables. Ensure the liquid covers most of the ingredients; add a little more broth or water if needed.
💡 Tip: The liquid is essential for creating the sauce and tenderizing the chicken and vegetables. - 8
Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour.
💡 Tip: Covering traps steam, which helps cook the ingredients evenly and keeps them moist. - 9
Remove the lid/foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly browned.
💡 Tip: Uncovering allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the top to brown. - 10
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving hot.
💡 Tip: Fresh herbs add a burst of freshness to the finished dish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or cauliflower.
- ✓For a creamier casserole, stir in a dollop of sour cream or yogurt just before serving.
- ✓If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the mixture to a baking dish before covering and baking.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
- Use a mix of chicken parts, like drumsticks and thighs.
- Incorporate a bay leaf during the simmering process for added aroma.