Persian Chicken and Jeweled Rice

Persian Chicken and Jeweled Rice is a fragrant and visually stunning dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors. Infused with saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom, this dish features tender, spiced chicken layered with basmati rice, crispy tahdig, toasted nuts, and jewel-like dried fruits. It is a traditional Persian feast, often served at celebrations and special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Persian flavors – Saffron, cardamom, and cinnamon create a warm and aromatic dish.
• Perfectly balanced textures – Crispy tahdig, tender chicken, and plump dried fruits add a delightful contrast.
• Visually stunning – Golden rice, deep red barberries, and vibrant pistachios make this a feast for the eyes.
• Customizable – You can swap out nuts and dried fruits to suit your taste preferences.
• Great for gatherings – This dish is perfect for festive occasions or family dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Basmati rice
• Butter or ghee
• Boneless chicken thighs, cooked and shredded
• Saffron threads, dissolved in warm water
• Cinnamon
• Cardamom
• Cumin
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Slivered almonds, toasted
• Pistachios, toasted
• Dried cranberries or barberries (zereshk)
• Golden raisins
• Candied orange peel (optional)
• Sugar
• Vegetable oil (for tahdig)

Directions

1. Prepare the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in salted water for 30 minutes, then drain.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat butter in a pan and sauté the chicken with cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
3. Parboil the Rice: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the drained rice and cook for 5–7 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
4. Make the Tahdig: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot. Spread a thin layer of rice at the bottom to create a crispy crust.
5. Layer the Rice and Chicken: Add a layer of rice, followed by chicken, nuts, dried fruits, and saffron water. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of rice.
6. Steam the Rice: Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel and a lid. Cook on low heat for 30–40 minutes until the rice is fluffy and aromatic.
7. Serve: Flip the rice onto a serving platter to reveal the crispy golden tahdig. Garnish with extra nuts and dried fruits before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a meat-free version.
• Different Nuts & Fruits: Swap almonds and pistachios for cashews or walnuts, and try dried apricots or figs instead of raisins.
• Spiced Rice: Add a touch of nutmeg or cloves for a deeper spice profile.
• Saffron Alternatives: If saffron is unavailable, use a pinch of turmeric for color (though it will slightly alter the flavor).

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store in portioned containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a covered pan over low heat to restore moisture, or microwave with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

FAQs

How do I get the perfect tahdig?

To achieve a crispy, golden tahdig, use enough oil, press the rice down slightly, and cook on low heat without disturbing it.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs provide more flavor and tenderness. If using breast meat, avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.

What can I substitute for barberries?

Dried cranberries or chopped dried cherries work well as substitutes for barberries.

Is saffron necessary?

Saffron gives the dish its signature aroma and color, but a small amount of turmeric can be used as an alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat it gently before serving.

Why do I need to rinse and soak the rice?

Rinsing removes excess starch for fluffy grains, and soaking helps the rice cook more evenly.

Can I make this dish in a rice cooker?

A rice cooker won’t create tahdig, but you can cook the rice and layer it with the other ingredients before serving.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pot?

Use a non-stick pot or a well-seasoned cast-iron pot, and make sure to use enough oil for the tahdig layer.

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can shred pre-cooked chicken and mix it with the spices for a quicker preparation.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with a side of yogurt, a fresh cucumber and tomato salad, or a light Persian herb platter (sabzi khordan).

Conclusion

Persian Chicken and Jeweled Rice is a flavorful, aromatic, and beautifully presented dish that brings a taste of Persian cuisine to your table. With its saffron-infused rice, crispy tahdig, and a delightful combination of nuts and dried fruits, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal. Try it today and enjoy a rich and vibrant culinary experience.