Saffron Chicken Kebab (also known as Joojeh Kebab) is a show-stopping dish in Persian cuisine, known for its tender chicken marinated in a fragrant saffron and lemon mixture. The vibrant yellow hue from the saffron and the tangy citrus make each bite an aromatic, flavorful experience. Joojeh Kebab is often served at festive occasions and gatherings, but it’s easy enough to prepare on the grill or under the broiler for a family dinner. Paired with fluffy Persian rice (polo), grilled vegetables, or flatbread, this dish will transport your taste buds to the heart of Iran.
Key Information
Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours marinating)
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 4
Serving Size: 1/4 of the total dish
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free
- Nut-free
- Low-carb
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon saffron threads (soaked in 2 tablespoons warm water for 10 minutes)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground sumac (optional, for tanginess)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (soaked if using wooden)
Detailed Method of Preparation
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, soaked saffron, turmeric, sumac (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring that all the pieces are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. If you're using a broiler, preheat it as well.Thread the Chicken onto Skewers:
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, ensuring there’s a bit of space between each piece to allow for even cooking.Grill the Kebabs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown with a slight char on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. You can also check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve the Saffron Chicken Kebab hot with Persian rice (polo), grilled vegetables, or flatbread, and garnish with a sprinkle of sumac or fresh herbs for added flavor.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Marinating: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight marination will yield even better results.
- Saffron Quality: High-quality saffron will give the chicken a rich color and an aromatic fragrance. If you're on a budget, you can mix a pinch of saffron with turmeric for a similar color, though the flavor won't be quite the same.
- Grilling: If you're grilling outdoors, try using a charcoal grill for an authentic smoky flavor. For indoor grilling, a cast-iron grill pan or broiler works well.
- Juiciness: For extra juiciness, marinate the chicken with a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream. This will add moisture and a subtle tang.
- Sumac Substitute: If you don't have sumac, you can use a little extra lemon juice for the tangy flavor, though it won’t be exactly the same.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe as they are more tender and juicy than chicken breasts. They also absorb the marinade better, making them even more flavorful.
2. Can I bake the chicken kebabs instead of grilling them?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes. Be sure to use a rack to allow air circulation around the chicken for even cooking.
3. Can I make Saffron Chicken Kebab without saffron?
While saffron is the key ingredient that gives Joojeh Kebab its signature color and flavor, you can substitute it with turmeric for a similar golden color. However, the taste will differ, as saffron has a unique, floral aroma.
4. How do I keep the kebabs from drying out?
To prevent the kebabs from drying out, be sure not to overcook the chicken. Check for doneness after 15 minutes of grilling. You can also baste the chicken with extra marinade while grilling to keep it moist.
5. Can I freeze the marinated chicken for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight and grill as usual.