Persian Saffron Chicken

Persian Saffron Chicken
  • PREP TIME
    15 mins
  • COOK TIME
    35 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    1 hrs
  • SERVING
    4 People
  • VIEWS
    30

Experience the allure of the Middle East with this fragrant saffron chicken. Tender chicken thighs, simmered in a luscious curry-saffron infused broth, create a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds. Perfect for a sophisticated dinner or a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    5 g
  • Cholesterol
    96 mg
  • Fiber
    1 g
  • Protein
    28 g
  • Saturated Fat
    5 g
  • Sodium
    1301 mg
  • Sugar
    1 g
  • Fat
    21 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Bloom the Saffron: In a small bowl, gently crush the saffron threads with a spoon to release their aroma. Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of hot water and stir. Allow the saffron to bloom for about 10 minutes, until the water turns a vibrant golden hue. (Prep time: 10 minutes)

02

Step

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously on both sides with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

03

Step

Sear the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear on both sides until beautifully golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

04

Step

Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped yellow onion to the same skillet and cook until softened and translucent, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and curry powder, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. This will awaken the spices and infuse the dish with depth.

05

Step

Simmer in Saffron Broth: Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the saffron mixture, along with the remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

06

Step

Braise to Perfection: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the saffron-infused broth. Cover the skillet tightly and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes, flipping the thighs halfway through the cook time to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.

07

Step

Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, spooning the luscious saffron sauce generously over the chicken. Accompany with fluffy rice, quinoa, couscous, a vibrant green salad, or your favorite side dish.

For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and saffron for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last few minutes of simmering.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dish.
Adjust the amount of curry powder to your liking, depending on your spice preference.

Clare Treutel

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.9/ 5 ( 10 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (6)
  • Sidney Halvorson

    Easy to follow recipe, and the chicken was incredibly tender.

  • Horacio Carter

    Absolutely delicious! The saffron flavor is so unique and fragrant.

  • Lowell Kertzmann

    Next time, I'll try adding some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

  • Lorena Cummings

    My family loved this! It's going into our regular dinner rotation.

  • Rupert Russel

    The sauce is amazing! I could eat it with a spoon.

  • Dianna Armstrong

    I added a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, and it was perfect.

LEAVE A REVIEW

Please Rate