Grilled Saffron Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes 500g (1.1 lb) boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm water 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon warm water
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling Skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 8g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 4g (Sugar: 1g)
• Protein: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground turmeric, ground cumin, paprika, soaked saffron threads (including the water), salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. 7.
   Serve the Grilled Saffron Chicken Skewers hot with a side of saffron rice, grilled vegetables, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Saffron — To extract the maximum flavor and color from saffron threads, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before using in the marinade. This will help release the aromatic compounds and create a vibrant golden hue in the chicken.

Tips & Tricks

• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the chicken skewers on a stovetop grill pan or in the oven under the broiler.
• For an extra burst of flavor, brush the chicken skewers with melted butter or olive oil while grilling.
• Serve the Grilled Saffron Chicken Skewers with a side of Mast-o-Khiar (Persian cucumber and yogurt dip) for a refreshing contrast to the spices.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Saffron Chicken Skewers as a main course alongside saffron rice, grilled vegetables, and a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Grilled Saffron Chicken Skewers on a platter, allowing the vibrant golden color of the chicken to take center stage. Sprinkle some saffron threads on top for an elegant touch. Serve with a side of saffron rice and grilled vegetables for a visually appealing presentation.