How to Make Persian Saffron Chicken Tahchin

June 7, 2025

# ٌRecipe

Tahchin is a traditional Persian rice dish layered with saffron-infused rice and juicy chicken. With its golden crust and aromatic flavor, this baked rice cake is both delicious and eye-catching—perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Here\'s how to make a professional, restaurant-style Chicken Tahchin at home.

Ingredients for Chicken Tahchin

Ingredient	Amount
Basmati rice	4 cups
Chicken (boneless)	500g
Onion	1 large
Brewed saffron	4 tbsp
Thick yogurt	2 cups
Egg yolks	2
Cooking oil	1 cup
Barberries (zereshk)	1 cup
Butter, salt, black pepper	As needed
Slivered pistachios/almonds	Optional

How to Make Chicken Tahchin (Step-by-Step)

Cook the Chicken: Boil chicken with onion, salt, and spices. Once cooked, shred the meat.
Parboil the Rice: Cook rice until al dente, then drain.
Make the Tahchin Mixture: In a bowl, whisk egg yolks with yogurt, saffron, salt, and pepper. Add the rice and mix well.
Prepare the Barberries: Lightly fry the washed barberries in butter or oil. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the tartness.
Layer the Tahchin: Grease a non-stick baking dish or pot. Add half the rice mixture, followed by the shredded chicken and some barberries. Add the remaining rice and gently press down.
Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 45–50 minutes, or until the crust is golden.
Serve: Let the Tahchin rest for 10 minutes before flipping. Garnish with pistachios, almonds, or extra barberries.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Tahchin

Use high-quality saffron and fresh barberries for the best flavor and color.
Make sure your rice is not too soft, or the Tahchin may fall apart.
Stick to the recommended ratios of rice to yogurt and egg. Too much moisture can prevent the crust from forming.
For extra aroma, add a few drops of rose water or orange blossom water to the saffron mixture.
You can also cook Tahchin in a rice cooker with a crust setting, if preferred.

Why Saffron and Barberries Matter

Saffron gives the dish its signature aroma, flavor, and golden color. Always brew saffron in warm water before use for maximum color release.
Barberries (Zereshk) add a tangy burst of flavor that complements the richness of the chicken and rice. They should always be lightly sautéed with sugar for a balanced taste.

Conclusion

Making Persian Chicken Tahchin at home is easier than it looks. By using fresh ingredients and following the right technique, you can prepare a flavorful, golden rice cake that rivals any restaurant dish. Whether for a festive dinner or a weekend treat, this saffron rice dish is sure to impress