Easy  Iranian Food Recipes Chicken with Saffron & Turmeric

Hi, I’m Nahid Olivia from OliviaCookery. Today, I’m excited to share one of my favourite Persian-inspired dishes: Iranian Food Recipes Chicken.

Persian flavours played a significant role in my culinary exploration as a child, and this recipe perfectly encapsulates the flavourful yet uncomplicated spirit of Iranian cooking. 

It all comes down to layering flavours with saffron, turmeric, and onions to create an aromatic and memorable dish. 

Whether you’re new to Persian cooking or looking for an Simple Iranian food recipes chicken with authentic flavours, you’ll love this one!

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.

How Do You Eat Persian Chicken?

Persian chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, fresh herbs and yoghurt.

What to Serve with Persian Chicken?

Serve it with barberry rice, Persian cucumber salad, or flatbread.

How Long Do You Marinate Persian Chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavour, leave it in the fridge for up to 4 hours.

What to Eat with Chicken Kebabs?

Pair chicken kebabs with grilled tomatoes, sumac-dusted onions, and lavas bread for a full Persian meal.

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 for Chicken inspires you to explore Persian cuisine’s rich and comforting world.  But with the right tips, you can create delicious, authentic Iranian chicken recipes.

Start cooking and share the joy of Persian flavours with friends and family! Happy cooking!