Air Fryer Joojeh Kebab (Saffron Chicken Kebabs)

Ingredients

• 600 g boneless chicken thighs, cut into large cubes
• 120 g plain yogurt
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp saffron threads, bloomed in 1 tbsp hot water (optional)
• 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Grilled tomato halves, to serve (optional)
• Lemon wedges, to serve (optional)

Steps

1. Whisk the yogurt, grated onion, lemon juice, olive oil, bloomed saffron, salt and pepper together in a bowl.
2. Add the chicken thigh cubes and turn to coat evenly in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
4. Shake off excess marinade and arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket.
5. Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip and cook a further 3-4 minutes, until deeply golden and cooked through.
6. Rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Tip: Saffron loses most of its color and aroma if added dry - always bloom the threads in a tablespoon of hot water for a few minutes first so the marinade turns a deep golden-red instead of staying pale and faintly flavoured.

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Nutrition (per serving)

Estimated from standard ingredient data — actual values vary by brand and exact quantities used.

Serving & Storage