Chicken Biryani Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together fragrant spices, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering or a special occasion, this traditional dish never fails to impress. The rich aroma, layered textures, and blend of spices create a symphony of flavors that make Chicken Biryani a favorite across the world.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—you can adjust the spice level, add different garnishes, or even cook it in a pressure cooker for convenience. The step-by-step guide video on our youtube channel foodbook will help you prepare an authentic Chicken Biryani recipe with simple ingredients and expert techniques to ensure that each bite is bursting with flavor.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe and create a restaurant-style Chicken Biryani in your own kitchen!
Ingredients for Chicken Biryani
For the Chicken Masala:
- Chicken – 1.5 kg
- Tomatoes – 1 kg, chopped
- Onions – 1 kg, chopped
- Garlic – 1 head, minced
- Ginger – 2 tbsp, crushed
- Green Chilies – 6-7, chopped
- Fresh Coriander – ½ cup, chopped
- Salt – 2 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Red Pepper Powder – 1 tsp
- Black Pepper Powder – ½ tsp
- Cumin (Zeera) – 1 tsp
- Turmeric (Haldi) – ⅓ tsp
- Coriander Powder – 1 tsp
- Tamarind (Imli) – 8-10 pieces, chopped
- Dried Plums (Aloo Bukhara) – 8-10 pieces, chopped
- Oil – 2 tbsp
- Yogurt – ½ cup
For the Rice:
- Rice – 2 glasses (soaked for 30 minutes)
- Water – 3 glasse
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Oil – 2 tbsp
- Green Chilies – 3-4, chopped
- Fresh Coriander – 3 tbsp, chopped
- Cumin (Zeera) – 1 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Masala
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Add chicken, ginger, garlic, salt, red pepper, black pepper, cumin, turmeric, and coriander powder. Mix well.
- Cover the lid and let the chicken cook for 5-10 minutes until tender.
- Once the curry starts releasing oil, add tamarind and dried plums. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in yogurt, stir, and let it simmer until the masala thickens and the oil separates.
- Add chopped green chilies and fresh coriander. Mix well. Your chicken masala is now ready.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- In a separate large pot, bring 3 glasses of water to a boil.
- Add salt, oil, chopped green chilies, fresh coriander, and cumin seeds.
- Drain the soaked rice and carefully add it to the boiling water. Stir gently.
- Cover the pot and cook until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 3: Layer and Dum Cook the Biryani
- Once the rice is cooked, layer the prepared chicken masala over it.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh coriander and green chilies for extra flavor.
- Cover the pot with a cloth and place it on low heat (dum) for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
- Gently mix before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Biryani Recipe
- Soak the rice for at least 30 minutes for a fluffy texture.
- Use fresh spices for a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Let the biryani rest for 5 minutes after dum cooking before serving to enhance taste.
- Serve with raita, salad, or chutney for a complete meal experience.
FAQs about Chicken Biryani
- Can I use boneless chicken for this biryani recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the biryani. If using boneless, reduce cooking time slightly to prevent dryness.
- How can I prevent my rice from becoming mushy?
Ensure you soak the rice for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Also, do not overcook the rice in the boiling stage—parboil until it’s about 70% cooked, then let it finish cooking on dum (steam).
- Can I substitute yogurt in the recipe?
Yes, you can replace yogurt with fresh cream or a mixture of milk and lemon juice to maintain the richness of the masala.
- How long does Chicken Biryani stay fresh?
Chicken Biryani stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store it in an airtight container and reheat gently to retain its texture and flavor.
- Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can use a pressure cooker, but be careful not to overcook the rice. Cook the chicken masala separately, then layer it with half-cooked rice before steaming for 5 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Biryani recipe delivers a mouthwatering combination of juicy chicken, flavorful masala, and perfectly cooked rice. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
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