Chicken Biryani Recipe

Chicken Biryani

Biryani is a rich and aromatic dish, loved for its intricate flavors and delightful blend of spices. Here’s a classic chicken biryani recipe:

Chicken Biryani Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:
  1. Chicken pieces (bone-in preferred) – 1 kg
  2. Yogurt – 200 ml
  3. Ginger-garlic paste – 2 tablespoons
  4. Red chili powder – 2 teaspoons
  5. Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  6. Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
  7. Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
  8. Cumin powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  9. Salt – to taste
  10. Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
  11. Fresh cilantro (coriander) – chopped, 1/4 cup
  12. Fresh mint – chopped, 1/4 cup

For the Rice:
  1. Basmati rice – 500 g, washed and soaked for 30 minutes
  2. Whole spices (bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, black cumin seeds) – 1 tablespoon
  3. Salt – to taste
  4. Water – for boiling

For the Biryani Layers:
  1. Onions – 3 large, thinly sliced and fried until golden brown
  2. Saffron – a pinch, soaked in 60 ml warm milk
  3. Ghee or oil – 100 ml
  4. Boiled eggs (optional) – 4
  5. Additional chopped cilantro and mint

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine all marinade ingredients with the chicken pieces. Marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Cook the Rice: Bring a large pot of water to boil, add the whole spices and salt. Add the soaked and drained rice and cook until it’s 70% done. Drain and set aside.
  3. Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat ghee or oil. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s about 50% done.
  4. Layer the Biryani: Remove half of the chicken. Spread half of the rice over the remaining chicken in the pot. Add half of the fried onions, some mint, cilantro, and sprinkle half of the saffron milk. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
  5. Final Cooking: Cover the pot with a tight lid or seal with dough. Cook on a very low heat for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the rice is fluffy.
  6. Serve: Garnish with boiled eggs, if using. Serve hot with raita (yogurt sauce) and enjoy the burst of flavors!

This recipe is a journey through the rich heritage of Indian cuisine, and each bite is a testament to the love and patience that goes into making it. Biryani is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.