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Homemade How to Make Biryani Chicken photo

How to Make Biryani Chicken

This Biryani Chicken is a fragrant, flavorful delight! A perfect blend of spices and tender chicken, it's ideal for any gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 1.75 lbs bone-in chicken thighs skin removed
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon paprika (regular/NOT smoked)
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
For the Rice:
  • 2 cups uncooked long-grain basmati rice
  • 1 tablespoon salt (table salt)
  • 2 yellow onions halved, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup high smoke point oil (avocado, canola, or vegetable)
  • 4 tablespoons ghee (or substitute unsalted butter)
  • 1 teaspoon saffron threads loosely packed
  • 2 tablespoons warm milk
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (measure after chopping)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped mint leaves (measure after chopping)
  • 1/3 cup ghee (or substitute unsalted butter), melted
  • Crispy onions (for garnish)
  • Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
  • Raita or yogurt for serving - a MUST!

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Marinate the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, and spices for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat ghee or oil and sauté onions until golden brown.
  3. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned, then layer the soaked basmati rice on top.
  4. Add water, bay leaves, and saffron milk. Cover and cook on low heat until rice is tender.
  5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before fluffing the rice and serving with garnishes.

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
  • For extra flavor, use homemade ghee.
  • Serve with raita or a fresh salad for a complete meal.