Easy Iranian Food Recipes Chicken with Saffron & Turmeric

Iranian food recipes chicken is a delicious reminder of family gatherings when the air was filled with golden saffron aroma and tang of fresh lemon.

Perfect for festive occasions or just when you want to make any meal feel like a celebration, this dish features tender chicken marinated in creamy yogurt, lemon juice, and an array of spices such as turmeric and saffron, kept juicy while in the pan.

Floral, earthy, and citrusy fill one’s mouth, embodying the spirit of Persian hospitality and vibrant flavors that make Iranian Food Recipes Chicken truly unforgettable.

Iranian Food Recipes Chicken

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Cuisine: Iranian (Persian)
• Course: Main Dish
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Yield: 4 servings
• Calories Per Serving: ~320 kcal

Ingredients

• 4 chicken drumsticks (skin-on for added flavour)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon saffron threads dissolved in 2 tablespoons warm water
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 cup water
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Mix lemon juice, turmeric, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
2. Rub this mixture over the chicken drumsticks and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator).

Step 2: Prepare the Saffron

1. Dissolve the saffron threads in warm water and steep them for 10 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing the dish with the signature Persian aroma.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil.
2. Sauté the sliced onions until golden brown—this caramelization adds sweetness and depth to the dish.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, searing each side for 5 minutes to lock in the flavour.
2. Pour the saffron water and 1 cup of regular water into the skillet. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer and Serve

1. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender and cooked.
2. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or zereshk polo (barberry rice) for a traditional Persian pairing.

Tips and Variations

Variations

• Swap drumsticks for chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer.
• Add a handful of dried apricots or prunes for a sweet twist.
• For a stew-like consistency, add diced tomatoes and simmer longer.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

• Zereshk Polo Morgh (Barberry Rice): The tangy barberries perfectly complement the saffron-infused chicken.
• Fresh Herbs and Flatbread: A simple side of herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro makes the meal refreshing.
• Cucumber Yogurt Dip: Add a dollop of creamy dip to balance the spices.

Video Tutorials

FAQs

Conclusion

Iranian Food Recipes Chicken kebabs are a great way to bring the flavors and sophistication of Persian cooking into your home. Recipe List.

I suggest you try this delightful dish whether you’re serving it up during a holiday feast or simply treating yourself to something special.

Every mouthful is a party of tradition, color, and flavor. I would love to know how yours turns out, so please let me know if you give it a try, or share adaptations (and questions) in the comments section below.

We inspire each other and share our favorites so the tradition of Iranian chicken recipes can continue, one dish at a time!