Joojeh Kabab with Grilled Vegetables & Shirazi Salad (Persian Saffron Chicken Kebab)

Joojeh Kabab with Grilled Vegetables & Shirazi Salad (Persian Saffron Chicken Kebab)

Recipe: Joojeh Kabab (Persian Saffron Chicken Kebab) with Grilled Vegetables & Shirazi Salad

Joojeh Kabab is a juicy, saffron-marinated Persian chicken kebab that is grilled to perfection. This meal is high in protein and full of flavor, served alongside grilled onions, bell peppers, and a refreshing Shirazi Salad—a light, citrusy mix of chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions dressed in lemon and olive oil.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Marinade:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, ground and dissolved in 2 tablespoons hot water
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For the Grilled Vegetables:

  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Shirazi Salad:

  • 1 cup cucumber, finely diced
  • 1 cup tomato, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Saffron Marinade & Chicken:

  • Grind the saffron threads with a mortar and pestle, then dissolve in hot water. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  • In a large bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, saffron water, lemon juice, grated onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, turmeric, and paprika.
  • Add the chicken pieces, coating them evenly.
  • Cover and marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.

2. Prepare the Grilled Vegetables:

  • In a bowl, toss the bell peppers and onion chunks with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  • Skewer the vegetables separately from the chicken to ensure even cooking.

3. Grill the Chicken & Vegetables:

  • Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  • Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, shaking off excess marinade.
  • Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 75°C).
  • Grill the vegetable skewers for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they have a slight char.
  • Brush with melted butter in the last minute of grilling for extra juiciness.

4. Prepare the Shirazi Salad:

  • In a bowl, mix chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
  • Drizzle with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  • Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

5. Serve & Enjoy:

  • Arrange grilled chicken and vegetables on a plate.
  • Serve with Shirazi Salad on the side and steamed saffron rice or warm flatbread.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Makes 2 Servings)

  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Protein: 45g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g (with rice or flatbread)
  • Fiber: 6g

Preparation Time

  • Total Time: 15 minutes prep + 4+ hours marination + 15 minutes grilling

Why This Joojeh Kabab Meal is Great

  • High in Lean Protein: Chicken breast provides essential muscle-building nutrients.
  • Balanced with Fiber & Healthy Fats: The addition of grilled vegetables and Shirazi Salad makes it a complete meal.
  • Vibrant & Refreshing Flavors: The saffron-infused marinade enhances the juiciness of the chicken, complemented by the citrusy salad.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken in advance and grill when ready.

Enjoy this traditional Persian dish as a nutritious and flavorful meal for lunch or dinner.

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