Name: Juicy Persian Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Family Delight Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Persian
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs (use thighs for tenderness and flavor); Salt, to taste; Pepper, to taste; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil for richer flavor); 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; 1 cup chicken broth (or water); 1 cup dried apricots (substitute figs or raisins if desired); ½ cup slivered almonds (or walnuts); ¼ cup fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Introduction

This Juicy Persian Chicken is a delightful blend of tender meat, warm spices, and sweet dried apricots, creating a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Perfect for family dinners, it brings aromatic Persian flavors to your table with ease.

A white bowl filled with a base layer of fluffy white rice, topped with several pieces of grilled chicken that are golden brown with dark char marks. The chicken is garnished with chopped green herbs and small red chili pieces, adding pops of color. On one side, there are two lemon wedges peeking into the frame. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs (use thighs for tenderness and flavor)
Salt, to taste (essential for seasoning)
Pepper, to taste (essential for seasoning)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil for richer flavor)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for earthy flavor)
1 teaspoon cinnamon powder (adds warmth and sweetness)
1 teaspoon cumin powder (enhances nutty notes)
1 teaspoon coriander powder (for refreshing citrus notes)
1 cup chicken broth (or water)
1 cup dried apricots (substitute figs or raisins if desired)
½ cup slivered almonds (or walnuts)
¼ cup fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the chicken thighs with turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper for about 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Step 2: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onions for 5-7 minutes until they are golden and fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
Step 4: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and brown all sides for about 6-8 minutes.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth or water and bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Stir in the dried apricots and slivered almonds or walnuts for sweetness and crunch.
Step 7: Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 45 minutes until the chicken is tender and flavors have melded.
Step 8: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary before serving.
Step 9: Serve the Persian chicken garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finishing touch.

Tips & Variations

For an extra touch, drizzle with fresh lemon juice just before serving to add brightness.
Substitute dried apricots with figs or raisins depending on your preference.
Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor profile.
Add a pinch of saffron for an authentic Persian aroma if available.

Storage

Store leftover Persian chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl holds a layered dish starting with a base of fluffy white rice sprinkled lightly with small green herb pieces. On top of the rice are three pieces of grilled chicken with a golden-brown color and charred black grill marks, garnished with fresh chopped green herbs. Behind the chicken, diced vegetables in bright colors of red, yellow, and green add a fresh and vibrant touch. The bowl sits on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs are preferred for their juiciness and richer flavor. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook as they can dry out.

What can I serve with this Persian chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice, couscous, or warm flatbreads to soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple cucumber and yogurt salad also complements it well.