Persian Saffron Chicken Tahchin in a Pot

Persian Saffron Chicken Tahchin Recipe

Tahchin is a beloved Persian dish featuring a perfect combination of steamed saffron rice, tender chicken, and a golden crispy crust. This step-by-step guide will help you prepare tahchin in a pot (stovetop method) with traditional flavors and techniques.

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Ingredients

For the Tahchin

• Chicken: 300 grams (boneless or bone-in)
• Rice: 2.5 cups (washed and soaked in salted water for 2–3 hours)
• Strained yogurt: 3 tablespoons (thick yogurt like Greek or strained at home)
• Egg yolks: 3
• Brewed saffron: 5 tablespoons (concentrated)
• Butter: 40 grams
• Oil: As needed
• Salt: To taste
• Pepper: To taste
• Ground cardamom: Optional, for aroma

For the Filling and Garnish

• Barberries: 2 tablespoons (lightly sautéed in butter and rosewater)
• Pistachio or almond slivers: For garnish
• Cinnamon stick: 1 (optional, for aroma)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Parboil the Rice

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the soaked rice and cook it until the grains are soft around the edges but firm in the center (al dente).
2. Strain the rice in a colander and set it aside.
   • Tip: Check the texture by pressing a grain between your fingers. If the center is still firm, it’s ready.

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2. Cook the Chicken

1. Place the chicken in a pot, cover with water, and season with salt, pepper, and turmeric.
2. Add a quartered small onion to reduce any odor.
3. Simmer on medium heat until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool, and shred into small pieces.

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3. Prepare the Tahchin Mixture

1. Whisk the egg yolks in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
2. Add a pinch of ground cardamom or rose water for aroma.
3. Stir in melted butter, oil, salt, and white pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the brewed saffron and mix thoroughly for a vibrant color.
5. Fold in the strained yogurt, stirring gently until the mixture is smooth and slightly thick.

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4. Combine Rice with the Tahchin Mixture

1. In a large bowl, mix a portion of the parboiled rice with the tahchin mixture. Gently fold to coat the rice without breaking the grains.
2. Add the rest of the rice in batches, ensuring all the rice is evenly coated.

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5. Assemble the Tahchin

1. Grease a non-stick pot or ceramic-coated pot with oil.
2. Spread a layer of the rice mixture at the bottom and press it down firmly.
3. Add a layer of shredded chicken on top, spreading evenly. Optionally, sprinkle ground cardamom and add sautéed barberries.
4. Cover the chicken with the remaining rice mixture, smoothing the surface and pressing lightly.
5. Place a cinnamon stick on top for aroma.

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6. Cook the Tahchin

1. Cover the pot with a clean kitchen towel and secure it with the lid to trap steam.
2. Cook on low heat using a heat diffuser for even cooking. Allow the tahchin to steam for 40–50 minutes, or until the bottom forms a crispy golden crust.

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7. Serve the Tahchin

1. Remove the cinnamon stick.
2. Place a serving platter over the pot and carefully invert the tahchin onto the platter. Shake the pot gently to release the crust.
   • Tip: If the tahchin sticks, place the pot in cold water for a few minutes before inverting.
3. Garnish with sautéed barberries, pistachios, and almonds.

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Tips for a Perfect Tahchin

1. Reduce Egg Odor: Add aromatic spices like cardamom or rose water.
2. Golden Crust: Use white pepper and cinnamon sticks to preserve the golden color.
3. Strained Yogurt: Ensure the yogurt is thick to prevent a watery mixture.
4. Perfect Saffron Color: Brew saffron using a concentrated method.
5. Even Mixing: Avoid overmixing the rice to keep grains intact.

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Optional Variations

• Filling Alternatives: Use walnuts, minced meat, or a combination of chicken and barberries.
• Baking Method: If preferred, layer the tahchin in a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 40–60 minutes. Remove the foil and broil briefly to crisp the top.

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Serving Suggestions

Tahchin pairs beautifully with a side of salad shirazi (Persian cucumber and tomato salad) or a dollop of thick yogurt. Serve it warm, and enjoy the aromatic saffron flavors with its signature crispy crust.

Enjoy your Persian Saffron Chicken Tahchin—a culinary masterpiece!