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Joojeh Kabab (Persian Saffron Chicken Kebab)
4.8 from 151 votes

Joojeh Kabab (Persian Saffron Chicken Kebab)

Joojeh Kabab consists of chicken pieces marinated in a mixture of Greek yogurt, thinly sliced onions, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, saffron, and salt. The marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with characteristic saffron aroma and bright flavors. The chicken is threaded onto skewers and grilled or cooked by alternative stovetop or oven methods, resulting in juicy, golden-brown kababs with a subtle, fragrant saffron taste.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Marinate time
3 hrs
Total Time
40 mins
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 470 kcal
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Persian

Ingredients

  • 2 lb chicken breast cut into 1.5 inch cubes, boneless skinless, or thighs
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup olive oil extra virgin
  • 1 lemon juice of
  • 1/4 cup saffron See notes, bloomed
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. In a large bowl mix yogurt, sliced onion, oil, lemon juice and saffron and salt. 
  2. Place the chicken in the marinade and stir well so all pieces are covered with marinade. 
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for at least three hours up to twenty four hours.
  4. Once ready to cook, place the bowl in room temperature for 15 minutes. 
  5. Preheat the grill to medium high. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers and place them on a baking sheet.
  6. Once the grill is hot, grill the chicken kabobs for 5 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked on the inside.

Notes

  • Chicken breasts, thighs, or a combination can be used; marinate up to 24 hours for best tenderness.
  • For stovetop cooking, sauté marinated chicken in olive oil without overcrowding the pan for even sear.
  • Oven roasting involves cooking at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, then broiling a few minutes for golden color.
  • Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to marinade if spicy kababs are preferred.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator up to two days; reheat gently in a pan or oven to maintain moisture.

Nutrition Information

Calories 470kcal (24%) Carbohydrates 8g (3%) Protein 54g (108%) Fat 24g (37%) Saturated Fat 4g (20%) Cholesterol 148mg (49%) Sodium 865mg (36%) Potassium 1002mg (21%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 4g (8%) Vitamin A 68IU (1%) Vitamin C 20mg (22%) Calcium 82mg (8%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4 servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 470

% Daily Value*

Calories 470kcal 24%
Carbohydrates 8g 3%
Protein 54g 108%
Fat 24g 37%
Saturated Fat 4g 20%
Cholesterol 148mg 49%
Sodium 865mg 36%
Potassium 1002mg 21%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 4g 8%
Vitamin A 68IU 1%
Vitamin C 20mg 22%
Calcium 82mg 8%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.