
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.
