Ingredients

2 onions
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts , cubed
1 lb low-fat plain yogurt
1 teaspoon saffron , dissolved in 1/2c hot water
2 eggs ( optional )
1 1/2 lbs basmati rice or 1 1/2 lbs long grain rice
3 cups water
1/2 cup cooking oil
2 teaspoons salt
black pepper ( to taste )
Tahcheen (Tah-Chin) is a popular Iranian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a delicious casserole dish that is traditionally served as a main course meal. This dish typically consists of layers of rice, chicken, and yogurt that are baked in the oven until golden and crispy. The result is a flavorful and aromatic casserole that is perfect for any occasion. The addition of saffron gives this dish a unique Persian twist that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Instructions

1.Rinse the rice in a strainer until the water runs clear.
2.In a pot, bring 3 cups of water and rice to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
3.Cook the rice on low for 15 minutes, then let it sit covered for 10-15 minutes until the rice is fluffy.
4.Preheat the oven to 350°F. Fry the onions in half of the oil until golden brown and sprinkle turmeric on top.
5.In a separate pan, fry the cubed chicken in the other half of oil until golden brown.
6.Mix the yogurt with the saffron water and eggs (optional) for a golden color. Salt and black pepper to taste, and then add the onion and half the yogurt mixture to the chicken, mix well.
7.In another container, mix half of the rice with yogurt, then mix the remaining rice with the chicken mixture.
8.In an oven-safe glass bowl, add a thin layer of the mixed rice with yogurt to the bottom. Then layer the chicken mixture on top of that. Continue with alternating layers of rice and chicken mixture until all ingredients are used. The top layer should be rice with yogurt.
9.Spread a few pieces of butter on top and cover the bowl with foil or a tight-fitting lid to prevent steam from escaping.
10.Place the glass bowl on a cookie sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Flip the bowl upside down onto a serving platter. The cooked Tahcheen will now be in the shape of the glass bowl it was baked in. Serve hot with a side of mixed greens, lemon wedges, and Persian pickles.

PROS

Tahcheen (Tah-Chin) is a tasty and unique casserole dish that is perfect for a family meal or dinner party.
It is a one-pot dish that is easy to make and packed with flavor.
The addition of saffron gives this dish a distinct golden color that is sure to impress your guests.

CONS

Tahcheen (Tah-Chin) is a bit high in calories due to the use of white rice and oil.
It is important to eat this dish in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite being high in calories, Tahcheen (Tah-Chin) has some health benefits. The chicken used in this recipe is a great source of protein and is low in fat. The addition of yogurt to this dish adds probiotics that support gut health. Saffron is an antioxidant and has been linked to promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.

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