A flavorful and aromatic chicken biryani made with spices, herbs, and basmati rice.

Chicken Biryani recipe
Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
1hr 0min
Total Time
1hr 30min

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = 1 plate)

For Onion and Tomato Mixture

  • medium onion, sliced
    medium onion, sliced
    1/2piece
  • medium tomatoes, sliced
    medium tomatoes, sliced
    2piece
  • fresh coriander, chopped
    fresh coriander, chopped
    1/4cup
  • mint leaves, chopped
    mint leaves, chopped
    1/4cup
  • lemon juice
    lemon juice
    1tbsp

For Cooking Chicken

  • cooking oil
    cooking oil
    1/2cup
  • large onions, sliced
    large onions, sliced
    2piece
  • green cardamom
    green cardamom
    2piece
  • black cardamom
    black cardamom
    2piece
  • black peppercorns
    black peppercorns
    1/4tsp
  • cloves
    cloves
    3piece
  • cinnamon stick
    cinnamon stick
    1piece
  • bay leaf
    bay leaf
    1piece
  • green chilies, slit
    green chilies, slit
    3piece
  • ginger garlic paste
    ginger garlic paste
    1/2tbsp
  • water
    water
    1tbsp
  • coriander powder
    coriander powder
    1tbsp
  • turmeric powder
    turmeric powder
    1/2tsp
  • garam masala powder
    garam masala powder
    1/2tsp
  • paprika powder
    paprika powder
    1/4tbsp
  • red chili powder
    red chili powder
    1/2tbsp
  • salt
    salt
    1tsp
  • chicken with bones
    chicken with bones
    1/2kg

For Rice

  • Sella/Basmati rice, soaked & boiled until ¾ done
    Sella/Basmati rice, soaked & boiled until ¾ done
    1/2kg
  • mace powder
    mace powder
    1/8tsp
  • nutmeg powder
    nutmeg powder
    1/8tsp
  • water
    water
    1tbsp
  • yellow food color
    yellow food color
    1/2tsp

How to make Chicken Biryani

Prepare Onion and Tomato Mixture

  1. Step 1

    In a bowl, add sliced onion, tomatoes, fresh coriander, mint leaves, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside.

Cook Chicken

  1. Step 1

    In a pot, add cooking oil and sliced onions. Fry until golden brown, approximately 10-12 minutes. Remove half of the fried onions and reserve for later use.

  2. Step 2

    Add green cardamom, black cardamom, black peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon stick, bay leaf, and green chilies. Mix well.

  3. Step 3

    Add ginger garlic paste and cook for 2-3 minutes.

  4. Step 4

    Add water and mix well.

  5. Step 5

    Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, paprika powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.

  6. Step 6

    Add the onion and tomato mixture. Mix well and cook until the tomatoes are soft.

  7. Step 7

    Add chicken and mix well until it changes color.

  8. Step 8

    Cover and cook on low flame for 8-10 minutes, then cook on high flame until oil separates. Remove the chicken mixture into a bowl.

Assemble Biryani

  1. Step 1

    In the same pot, add half of the boiled rice and spread it evenly.

  2. Step 2

    Add the cooked chicken mixture and then add the remaining boiled rice on top.

  3. Step 3

    Sprinkle mace powder and nutmeg powder over the rice.

  4. Step 4

    In water, dissolve yellow food color and mix well.

  5. Step 5

    Pour the dissolved food color over the rice and add the reserved fried onions.

  6. Step 6

    Cover and steam cook on low flame for 10 minutes.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

410.8kcal (20.54%)

Protein

21.3g (42.66%)

Carbs

45.0g (16.36%)

Sugars

1.7g (3.34%)

Healthy Fat

13.4g

Unhealthy Fat

3.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the rice is only ¾ cooked before layering to avoid overcooking.

  2. Adjust the red chili powder according to your spice preference.

FAQS

  1. What is the best way to cook chicken biryani for beginners?

    For beginners, it's essential to follow the steps carefully. Start by frying the onions until golden brown, as this adds depth to the flavor. Then, layer the partially cooked rice with the chicken mixture, ensuring even distribution. Finally, steam it on low heat to let the flavors meld together. Patience is key, so avoid rushing the cooking process!

  2. Can I make chicken biryani gluten-free?

    Yes, chicken biryani can easily be made gluten-free! Just ensure that the spices and any additional ingredients you use are gluten-free. Most spices are naturally gluten-free, but it's always good to check the labels. Additionally, you can substitute any sauces or condiments with gluten-free alternatives.

  3. What are some good substitutions for ingredients in chicken biryani?

    If you don't have certain spices or herbs, you can substitute them with similar flavors. For instance, if you don't have mace powder, you can use a pinch of nutmeg instead. If fresh coriander or mint is unavailable, dried versions can work, though the flavor will be less intense. You can also use chicken thighs instead of chicken with bones for a more tender result.

  4. How should I store leftover chicken biryani?

    To store leftover chicken biryani, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

  5. What dishes pair well with chicken biryani?

    Chicken biryani pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a refreshing cucumber raita, which helps balance the spices. You can also serve it with a simple salad or some pickles for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider a side of naan or paratha to soak up the delicious biryani flavors.

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