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20-Min Saffron Chicken Kabab Plate

Marinated chicken thighs grilled until golden, served over saffron rice with barberries, pickled cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime. A complete Persian dinner that tastes restaurant-quality in under 20 minutes.

Total time
20 min
Servings
2
Calories
580
Protein
42g
20-Min Saffron Chicken Kabab Plate
elegantsatisfyingpersianchickenjuicytenderweeknightdinner

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1

    Soak saffron threads in 0.25 cup hot water for 3 minutes. Meanwhile, bring 2 cups salted water to a boil in a heavy skillet.

  2. Step 2

    Toss chicken chunks with 2 tbsp oil, salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp minced garlic. Thread onto skewers (or leave in chunks for a sheet-pan version).

  3. Step 3

    Add rice to boiling water, stir once, and reduce heat to low. Pour saffron water over top (don't stir). Cover; cook 15 minutes until rice is tender.

  4. Step 4

    Heat a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Grill chicken skewers 3–4 minutes per side until edges char and internal temp reaches 165°F.

  5. Step 5

    Fluff saffron rice with a fork. Fold in barberries. Divide rice between plates and top with grilled chicken.

  6. Step 6

    Serve with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and lime wedges on the side. Squeeze lime over chicken and rice.

Tools you’ll need

  • heavy skillet or pot with lid
  • grill pan or cast iron skillet
  • metal or wooden skewers
  • fork
  • cutting board and knife

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