Title: Authentic Chicken Biryani Recipe (Fragrant, Spiced & Delicious)
This authentic chicken biryani recipe is layered with fragrant basmati rice, tender marinated chicken, and bold Indian spices. A one-pot comfort dish perfect for festive dinners or weekend meals!
Authentic Chicken Biryani (Fragrant, Flavorful & Festive)
Craving something hearty and flavorful? This authentic chicken biryani brings together tender chicken, long-grain basmati rice, caramelized onions, and a symphony of traditional Indian spices. Each bite is rich, aromatic, and layered with deep, savory flavors.
Perfect for special occasions, family gatherings, or even Sunday meal prep—this biryani will quickly become a household favorite.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g chicken (bone-in or boneless), cut into medium pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
For the Rice:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- 2–3 green cardamom pods
- 4–5 cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- Salt to taste
For the Biryani Layers:
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp ghee or oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped coriander (cilantro)
- A few saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk (optional)
- Fried onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the chicken:
Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Add chicken, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight preferred).
2. Cook the rice:
Rinse and soak basmati rice for 30 minutes. Boil water with whole spices and salt. Add rice and cook until 70–80% done. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the onions:
Heat ghee/oil in a heavy-bottomed pot. Fry onions until golden brown. Remove half for layering.
4. Cook the chicken:
In the same pot, add marinated chicken and cook for 10–12 minutes until partially cooked and oil separates.
5. Layer the biryani:
Turn off the heat. Layer partially cooked rice over the chicken. Top with fried onions, mint, coriander, and saffron milk.
6. Dum (steam) cook:
Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or seal with foil. Cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes. Let it rest 10 minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Biryani Recipe:
- Authentic taste with homemade spices
- Aromatic, moist, and flavorful
- One-pot meal—less cleanup
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
- Crowd-pleaser for all occasions
Serving Suggestions:
- Raita (cucumber yogurt sauce)
- Boiled eggs or kebabs on the side
- Pickled onions or green chutney
- A glass of chilled mango lassi
Tips & Variations:
- Short on time? Use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot for faster results
- Make it spicier: Add green chilies or more chili powder
- Vegetarian option: Swap chicken with paneer or vegetables
- Use store-bought fried onions: To save time on prep
FAQs:
Q: Can I make chicken biryani ahead of time?
A: Yes, it tastes even better the next day! Reheat gently with a splash of water.
Q: Which rice is best for biryani?
A: Use aged, long-grain basmati rice for the best aroma and texture.
Q: What if I don’t have saffron?
A: You can skip it or use a few drops of rose water or kewra water for fragrance.
Final Thoughts:
This chicken biryani recipe captures the essence of traditional Indian cooking—layered, spiced, and bursting with flavor. Whether for a celebration or a comforting family dinner, it's always a winner on the table.
Tried this recipe?
Leave a comment below, pin it to Pinterest, and follow my blog for more traditional and modern Indian recipes made easy at home!
Comments
Post a Comment