Saffron-Infused Persian Tahchin with Barberries

Name: Saffron-Infused Persian Tahchin with Barberries
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 2 cups basmati rice; 1/4 cup plain yogurt; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 egg yolks; 1 lb chicken breast; 1 onion; 1 tsp ground turmeric; Salt and black pepper; 1/2 cup dried barberries; 2 tbsp sugar; 2 tbsp butter; 1/2 tsp saffron threads

A fragrant and crispy Persian rice cake

This vibrant Persian dish combines aromatic basmati rice with tender chicken, barberries, and a saffron-infused crust to create a stunning and delicious centerpiece.

2 h 30 min
6
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Saffron Rice

2 cups basmati rice

rinsed and soaked for 1 hour

1/4 cup plain yogurt

full-fat preferred

1/4 cup vegetable oil

2 egg yolks

For the Chicken Filling

1 lb chicken breast

cut into small pieces

1 onion

finely chopped

1 tsp ground turmeric

Salt and black pepper

to taste

For the Barberry Layer

1/2 cup dried barberries

soaked and rinsed

2 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp butter

For the Saffron Infusion

1/2 tsp saffron threads

bloomed in 2 tbsp hot water

Preparation

Marinating the Saffron Rice

Combine wet ingredients

Mix the yogurt, oil, saffron water, and egg yolks in a large bowl.

Add the rice

Drain the soaked rice and add it to the bowl, mixing well to coat the rice.

Rest the mixture

Let it rest to allow flavors to meld.

Preparing the Chicken Filling

Heat the pan

Heat a pan over medium heat, adding a bit of oil.

Sauté onions

Sauté onions until translucent, then add turmeric, salt, and pepper.

Cook the chicken

Add chicken pieces and cook until fully cooked through.

⚠ Important: Ensure chicken is fully cooked to avoid foodborne illness. 💡 Pro Tip: Using a non-stick pan will help achieve a crisp crust without sticking.

Cooking Process

Layering the Tahchin

Grease a deep baking dish and layer half of the saffron rice mixture at the bottom.

Adding the Filling

Spread the chicken filling evenly over the rice, followed by the remaining rice mixture.

Cooking the Dish

Cover tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 hours.

Plating & Serving