Irresistible Persian Saffron Chicken
Discover the magic of Irresistible Persian Saffron Chicken, a dish that brings together tender chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant blend of saffron, yogurt, and spices. This tantalizing recipe is perfect for any occasion, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas and impressing your guests with its vibrant flavors. Serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm pita for a truly authentic experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking/Stovetop
- Cuisine: Persian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, and half of the saffron dissolved in warm water until smooth.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for better flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil.
- If cooking on the stovetop, add chicken thighs to the skillet and sear until browned (about 5-7 minutes per side). For baking, place marinated chicken in an oven-safe dish and pour remaining marinade over it.
- Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with additional saffron threads soaked in water before serving with rice or flatbreads.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (150g)
- Calories: 299
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg