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A display of various Iranian chicken recipes, highlighting aromatic spices and authentic cooking techniques in a vibrant setting.
Olivia

Iranian Food Recipes Chicken

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: main dish
Cuisine: Iranian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

Here’s what you’ll need
  • 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

Method
 

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 caramelisation 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.