Exotic Saffron & Citrus-Infused Chicken (Oven-Braised Perfection!)

Tender chicken thighs and drumsticks are simmered in a fragrant saffron citrus broth for a show-stopping meal full of Middle Eastern flair.
If you’re craving a bold, aromatic dish that feels both comforting and gourmet, this saffron and citrus-infused chicken will blow your tastebuds away! The warm spices—paprika, cumin, turmeric, and coriander—meld beautifully with saffron threads and zesty lemon peel to create a luxurious, sunshine-filled braise.
Whether you’re cooking for a special gathering or just want a flavorful twist on your weekly dinner rotation, this slow-baked chicken is a must-try.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
(Serves 4 | Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 1 hr 30 mins | Total: 1 hr 50 mins)
For the Chicken:
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
For the Aromatics & Spices:
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 small pinch of saffron threads
- Zest from 1 lemon, cut into thin strips
For Braising:
- 2–3 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat & Season
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pat the chicken dry and generously season all sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Brown the chicken on all sides, working in batches if needed. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the sliced onion to the same pot and sauté for 5–6 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Add garlic, paprika, cumin, turmeric, coriander, and cayenne. Stir well for 1–2 minutes.
4. Combine & Braise
Return the browned chicken to the pot. Toss to coat with the spiced onion mixture.
Pour in enough chicken broth to come ⅔ of the way up the chicken pieces.
Sprinkle in the saffron and add the lemon peel strips. Give it a gentle stir.
5. Bake to Perfection
Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 1.5 hours until the chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender and the broth is rich and golden.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this exotic chicken over a bed of fluffy couscous, basmati rice, or garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious sauce. Add a side of roasted vegetables or a cucumber-yogurt salad for a fresh finish!
Nutrition Info (Per Serving):
Calories: ~410 kcal
Protein: ~25g
Fat: ~28g
Carbs: ~6g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Deep flavor from slow braising
- Exotic yet accessible ingredients
- Elegant enough for entertaining, easy enough for weeknight meals
- Dairy-free and gluten-free (if using GF broth)
Pro Tips:
- Toast your saffron in a dry pan for 30 seconds to intensify its aroma before adding.
- For added richness, finish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil when serving.
- Make it ahead! It tastes even better the next day.
More Bold Chicken Dishes You’ll Love:
- Saffron Honey Roasted Lamb with Caramelized Onions
- Spicy Garlic Chicken & Potatoes Sheet Pan Dinner
- Crispy Chicken Cutlets with Salsa Verde
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