Persian Saffron Chicken Wings: A Flavorful Grilled Recipe

Prepare for an explosion of flavor with this Persian Saffron Chicken Wings recipe! These aren't your average wings; we're taking the classic game day favorite and infusing it with the rich, luxurious aroma and vibrant color of saffron, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Imagine succulent, tender chicken wings, kissed by the grill's smoky embrace, and permeated with the warm, earthy notes of saffron, perfectly balanced by a touch of sweet and savory spices. This recipe is surprisingly easy to master, even for beginner grillers.

The unique blend of Persian spices elevates these chicken wings beyond the ordinary, transforming a simple appetizer into a sophisticated dish. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these flavorful and aromatic wings. Ready to embark on this delicious journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide below and create these magnificent Persian Saffron Chicken Wings together.

Tools Needed

  • Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cling wrap
  • Skewers (metal)
  • Grill/Oven/Pan

Ingredients

  • Chicken wings: 1000 grams
  • Salt: 1 tbsp
  • Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
  • Turmeric: 1 tsp
  • Lemon juice: 1/4 cup
  • Saffron water: 2 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves: 2, crushed
  • Greek yogurt: 2 tbsp
  • Butter: 1 tbsp
  • Saffron water (for basting): 1 tbsp
  • Lemon juice (for basting): 1 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Saffron Marinade & Marinate Chicken

  • In a bowl, combine salt, black pepper, turmeric, lemon juice, saffron water, crushed garlic, and Greek yogurt. Whisk until well combined.
  • Add the chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover with cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine salt, black pepper, turmeric, lemon juice, saffron water, crushed garlic, and Greek yogurt. Whisk until well combined.Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover with cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Prepare the Saffron Marinade & Marinate Chicken

Step 2. Prepare for Grilling

  • Thread the marinated chicken wings onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each wing for even cooking.
Prepare for cooking: Thread the marinated chicken wings onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each wing for even cooking.
Prepare for Grilling

Step 3. Grill the Chicken Wings

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers, turning every 30 seconds, for about 7-9 minutes, or until cooked through.
  • In a small bowl, combine saffron water, lemon juice, and butter. Brush this mixture over the chicken wings during the last few minutes of cooking.
Grill the chicken wings: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers, turning every 30 seconds, for about 7-9 minutes, or until cooked through.Baste and finish: In a small bowl, combine saffron water, lemon juice, and butter. Brush this mixture over the chicken wings during the last few minutes of cooking.
Grill the Chicken Wings

Step 4. Serve

  • Remove the chicken wings from the skewers and serve with Persian rice or other desired sides.
Serve: Remove the chicken wings from the skewers and serve with Persian rice or other desired sides.
Serve

Read more: Arabic Eggplant Recipe: A Simple & Delicious Guide

Tips

  • For best results, marinate the chicken overnight.
  • If you don't have a grill, you can bake, pan-fry, or barbecue the chicken wings.
  • Check the chicken's internal temperature to ensure it's cooked through (165°F or 74°C).

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I make these chicken wings without a grill?

Yes! You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and slightly charred.

2. Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! The marinade flavors the chicken even better if it marinates for at least 2 hours, or even overnight in the refrigerator.

3. What can I substitute for saffron if I don't have any?

While saffron provides a unique flavor, you can try turmeric for a similar color, although the taste will be different. Alternatively, you could omit it altogether and focus on the other spices.


These Persian Saffron Chicken Wings are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a unique and delicious twist on a classic appetizer. The vibrant color and aromatic spices will impress your guests, leaving them wanting more. Enjoy the flavorful results of your grilling expertise!