Persian Chicken Kabobs (Joojeh Kabab)
Persian Chicken Kabobs (Joojeh Kabab)— tender, juicy chicken marinated in saffron, lemon, and yogurt, then grilled to golden perfection. It’s a classic Persian dish often served with rice, grilled tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
⏳Total time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinate Time: 4–12 hours
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Chicken & Marinade:
1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
½ cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
3 tbsp lemon juice
1 small onion, grated or very finely minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground turmeric
¼ tsp ground saffron or a pinch of saffron threads (bloomed in 1 tbsp hot water)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Optional for Serving:
Grilled tomatoes or onions
Saffron rice or lavash
Fresh parsley or mint
Sumac for garnish
Notes & Tips:
Saffron tip: Bloom saffron in hot water to release its full flavor and color.
Chicken choice: Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well when not overcooked.
Grill or oven: Can be grilled on a BBQ, stovetop grill pan, or baked under broiler.
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, onion, olive oil, turmeric, bloomed saffron, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss well to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
2. Skewer the Chicken:
Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers (metal or soaked wooden ones). Leave a bit of space between pieces for even cooking.
3. Grill or Cook:
Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook skewers for 10–15 minutes, turning every few minutes until charred and fully cooked.
Oven Broil: Preheat broiler. Place skewers on a foil-lined tray and broil for 10–12 minutes, turning once, until golden.
4. Serve:
Serve hot with saffron rice (like *chelo*), flatbread, grilled vegetables, and a sprinkle of sumac or fresh herbs.
Nutritional information
Calories: ~280 kcal
Protein: ~30g
Fat: ~15g
Carbs: ~3g
Sodium: ~500mg
❓ frequently asked questions
Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
A: Yes! Freeze raw marinated chicken in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before cooking.
Q: What side dishes go well with Persian kabobs?
A: Cucumber yogurt dip Shirazi salad, saffron rice, and grilled veggies are all excellent.