Step into the world of Persian culinary tradition with this exquisite recipe for Persian Saffron Chicken with Zereshk Polo (Saffron Barberry Rice).This traditional dish features tender chicken infused with aromatic saffron and is paired with fragrant basmati rice studded with tart barberries. The result is a beautifully balanced meal with savory, sweet, and tangy notes—perfect for special occasions or a flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Salt to taste
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chicken broth or water
For the Zereshk Polo (Saffron Barberry Rice):
2 cups basmati rice
1/2 cup dried barberries (zereshk)
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
2 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup slivered almonds or pistachios (optional)
Salt to taste
Directions:
For the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
Add minced garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add chicken pieces to the pan, browning them on all sides.
Pour in the saffron water and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
For the Zereshk Polo:
Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water with a pinch of salt for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the rice according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a small pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add barberries and sugar, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the barberries are plump and the sugar is dissolved. Stir in the saffron water.
In a large pot, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Layer the cooked rice with the barberries, gently folding them in to combine.
Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
To Serve:
Serve the saffron chicken alongside the Zereshk Polo. Garnish with slivered almonds or pistachios if desired.
Serving Tips:
Garnish for Presentation: For an elegant touch, garnish your Persian Saffron Chicken with slivered almonds or pistachios. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also add a pop of color and freshness.
Pair with Side Dishes: Complement the dish with a simple cucumber and tomato salad or a yogurt-based side like Persian Mast-o-Khiar (yogurt with cucumber and herbs) to enhance the meal.
Serving Temperature: Serve the chicken and Zereshk Polo warm for the best flavor experience. You can reheat them gently if they’ve been stored in the refrigerator.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Both the chicken and Zereshk Polo can be kept for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the chicken and Zereshk Polo separately. Place them in freezer-safe containers or bags. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, while the rice can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When reheating from the refrigerator, warm the chicken and rice in a microwave or on the stovetop. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add a splash of water or broth to the rice to restore its texture.
Related Recipes:
- Persian Saffron Chicken (Zereshk Polo Ba Morgh)
- Khoresh Bademjan (Persian Eggplant Stew)
- Khoresh Bademjan
FAQs:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts as an alternative. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster and can be less tender compared to thighs or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and remain juicy.
What can I substitute for dried barberries if I can’t find them?
If dried barberries are unavailable, you can substitute with dried cranberries or dried cherries. These alternatives provide a similar sweet-tart flavor. Just chop them finely before adding them to the rice.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party or special occasion?
Absolutely! You can prepare both the Persian Saffron Chicken with Zereshk Polo (Saffron Barberry Rice) in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers. Reheat the chicken and rice gently before serving to maintain their flavors and textures.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, both the Persian Saffron Chicken and Zereshk Polo can be frozen. Store them in freezer-safe containers or bags. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, and the rice for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Conclusion:
This Persian Saffron Chicken with Zereshk Polo (Saffron Barberry Rice) is a celebration of Persian culinary traditions. The tender chicken, enriched with saffron, pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy Zereshk Polo, making each bite a journey through the vibrant flavors of Iran. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or just want to indulge in a flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
📖 Recipe:
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Persian Saffron Chicken with Zereshk Polo (Saffron Barberry Rice)
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of Persian cuisine with our Persian Saffron Chicken with Zereshk Polo. This traditional dish features tender chicken thighs or drumsticks infused with aromatic saffron and served alongside Zereshk Polo, a fragrant basmati rice adorned with tart barberries. Perfect for special occasions or a flavorful dinner, this recipe offers a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes that will impress any palate.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
1 large onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Salt to taste
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chicken broth or water
For the Zereshk Polo (Saffron Barberry Rice):
2 cups basmati rice
1/2 cup dried barberries (zereshk)
1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
2 tablespoons sugar
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup slivered almonds or pistachios (optional)
Salt to taste
Instructions
- For the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté sliced onions until golden brown.
- Add garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the chicken pieces on all sides.
- Pour in saffron water and chicken broth. Simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- For the Zereshk Polo:
- Rinse basmati rice until water runs clear. Soak in water with a pinch of salt for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook rice according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small pan, add barberries and sugar, sauté for 2-3 minutes. Stir in saffron water.
- In a large pot, melt the remaining butter, layer cooked rice with barberries, and gently fold to combine. Cover and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes.
- To Serve:
- Serve the saffron chicken with Zereshk Polo. Garnish with slivered almonds or pistachios if desired.
Notes
Substitutes: If dried barberries are unavailable, dried cranberries or dried cherries work as alternatives.
Preparation: The chicken and rice can be prepared in advance and stored separately. Reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Persian (Iranian)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
