Go Back
–+ servings

Classic Indian Chicken Biryani

No ratings yet
Fragrant Indian basmati rice layered with spiced yogurt-marinated chicken, fried onions, herbs, and saffron.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Minimum marinating time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 680
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
 
 

Chicken Marinade
  • 2 lb bone-in chicken thighs skin removed
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 2 tbsp biryani masala
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 2 tsp kosher salt divided
Rice and Layers
  • 2 cups aged basmati rice rinsed and soaked 30 minutes
  • 8 cups water for boiling rice
  • 3 large yellow onions thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup neutral oil or ghee
  • 1 cup mint and cilantro leaves loosely packed
  • 1/4 cup warm milk with a pinch of saffron

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven
  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • Fine strainer
  • Kitchen towel

Method
 

Marinate and Fry:
  1. Combine the chicken, yogurt, garlic, ginger, biryani masala, turmeric, and half the salt. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Fry the onions in the oil until deep golden. Drain, reserving 3 tablespoons oil in the Dutch oven.
Par-Cook and Layer:
  1. Boil the soaked rice in the water with the remaining salt until about 70 percent cooked, 5 to 6 minutes. Drain.
  2. Spread the chicken and marinade in the Dutch oven. Add half the onions and herbs, then cover with rice. Top with remaining onions, herbs, and saffron milk.
Dum Cook:
  1. Cover tightly and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, then low heat for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  2. Rest covered for 10 minutes, then gently lift and serve the layers.

Nutrition

Calories: 680kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 38gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 980mgFiber: 3gSugar: 7g

Notes

  • Keep the rice firm before layering.
  • A heavy pot prevents scorching.
  • Do not vigorously stir the finished biryani.