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Chicken Biryani Recipe

A rich and aromatic Chicken Biryani Recipe made with tender spiced chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and traditional dum cooking. This flavorful one-pot dish is perfect for special occasions, family dinners, and anyone who loves authentic biryani at home.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For Chicken Marinade:
  • 500 g chicken bone-in or boneless
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • For Rice:
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 –3 cloves
  • 2 cardamom pods
  • 1 bay leaf
  • For Layering:
  • 2 onions thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • Fresh cilantro and mint leaves
  • Saffron soaked in warm milk optional

Method
 

  1. Marinate chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and spices. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Cook basmati rice in spiced water until 70% done. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat oil or ghee and fry sliced onions until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, cook marinated chicken until partially cooked.
  5. In a heavy pot, layer chicken, rice, fried onions, herbs, and saffron milk. Repeat layers.
  6. Cover tightly and cook on low heat (dum method) for 20–25 minutes.
  7. Gently fluff and serve warm.

Notes

Use long-grain basmati rice for best texture
Do not overcook rice before layering
Marinate longer for deeper flavor
Seal the pot well during dum cooking
Add a splash of water when reheating to keep moist