This Tah-Cheen, or Persian baked chicken and rice, dish offers an intoxicating blend of flavors and textures that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Imagine a savory chicken and aromatic rice casserole with a golden, crispy crust. Yes, it's as delicious as it sounds!
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Tah-Cheen (Persian Baked Chicken and Rice)
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Tah-Cheen (Persian Baked Chicken and Rice)
Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups cooked basmati rice
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 cups yogurt
- ½ teaspoon saffron
- ½ teaspoon tumeric
- 4 tablespoon hot water
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 roasted chicken breasts shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200C/400F.
- Whisk saffron and turmeric with hot water.½ teaspoon saffron, ½ teaspoon tumeric, 4 tablespoon hot water
- In a large bowl combine cooked rice with garlic, egg yolks, yogurt, melted butter, salt and saffron water.3 ½ cups cooked basmati rice, 3 egg yolks, 2 cups yogurt, 2 tablespoon melted butter
- Transfer half of the rice mixture into a baking pan, top with shredded chicken and cover with another half of rice.2 roasted chicken breasts
- Bake for 70 minutes or until the bottom of the casserole becomes golden and crispy. Set aside for 10-15 minutes before flipping upside down and serving.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- 3 ½ cups cooked basmati rice
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 cups yogurt
- ½ teaspoon saffron
- ½ teaspoon tumeric
- 4 tablespoon hot water
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 roasted chicken breasts, shredded
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 200C/400F.
Whisk saffron and turmeric with hot water.
In a large bowl combine cooked rice with garlic, egg yolks, yogurt, melted butter, salt and saffron water.
Transfer half of the rice mixture into a baking pan, top with shredded chicken and cover with another half of rice.
Bake for 70 minutes or until the bottom of the casserole becomes golden and crispy. Set aside for 10-15 minutes before flipping upside down and serving.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
Tah-Cheen is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions:
Fresh Salad
A crisp, refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions drizzled with a simple lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of Tah-Cheen.
Yogurt Sauce
A side of mint yogurt sauce adds a cooling element that complements the spices in the dish.
Pickled Vegetables
Tart and tangy pickled vegetables can provide a nice contrast to the savory casserole.
Each of these sides enhances the overall dining experience, making your meal feel more complete and satisfying.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Creating the perfect Tah-Cheen requires attention to detail and a few expert techniques. Here are some in-depth tips to help you master this dish:
Achieving the Golden Crust
The hallmark of a well-prepared Tah-Cheen is its crispy, golden crust. To reach this texture, control the baking environment carefully:
- Baking Temperature and Time: Ensure your oven is accurately preheated to 200C/400F. If the crust isn't achieving the desired crispiness, try increasing the temperature by 10-15 degrees for the last 10-15 minutes. This adjustment helps create that crunchy exterior without overcooking the interior.
- Baking Pans: Use a non-stick baking pan or line your pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step facilitates smooth flipping and maintains the integrity of the crust.
Handling Saffron for Flavors
Saffron is pivotal in both color and flavor. Enhance its impact by:
- Preparing Saffron Water: Begin by steeping saffron threads in hot water rather than adding them dry. This process extracts maximum flavor and color, dispersing evenly throughout the dish.
- Mixing Thoroughly: Ensure that the saffron water is mixed uniformly with the other ingredients, which helps maintain a consistent flavor profile in every bite.
Ensuring Easy Release
Flipping the dish is a delicate step that, when done correctly, showcases the beautifully layered structure:
- Resting Period: After baking, allow the Tah-Cheen to rest for 10-15 minutes. This rest helps the layers stabilize and develop their full flavor, making the flipping process seamless.
- Gentle Flipping Technique: Use a large serving platter and gently flip the casserole to ensure it remains intact. This technique is key to a stunning presentation.
By incorporating these tips into your preparation, your Tah-Cheen will not only look exceptional but also offer an unparalleled sensory experience.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While roasted chicken is traditional, you can also use lamb or beef. Just make sure the meat is cooked through before layering it in the casserole.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Tah-Cheen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and warm it up at a low temperature to retain its crispy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. The cooking method remains the same.
Is It Possible to Prepare Tah-Cheen Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can prepare Tah-Cheen up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient dish for entertaining since you can do most of the work ahead of time. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it goes into the oven cold from the fridge.
Can I Freeze Tah-Cheen?
Yes, Tah-Cheen freezes quite well. After it's fully cooked and cooled, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to one month. When you're ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven, covered, at 350F (175C) until it's heated through.
What Can I Do If My Casserole Falls Apart When Flipping?
If your casserole falls apart, don't worry; it's still delicious! To help prevent this from happening, ensure you allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This resting period helps the layers set. Using a non-stick pan or lining with parchment can also assist in the flipping process. If it still comes apart, you can always serve it scooped directly from the pan.
Are There Any Variations to the Traditional Recipe?
Definitely! While the traditional recipe is beloved, you can experiment with additions like nuts, such as slivered almonds or pistachios, for added texture. Dried fruits like barberries can also be added for a hint of sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the dish.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you loved making Tah-Cheen, why not try your hand at other casserole dishes? From classic cordon bleu to hearty stuffing, the world of chicken casseroles offers endless possibilities. Check out our collection of easy-to-follow casserole recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
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