Dinner

Chicken Biryani Recipe

Name: Chicken Biryani Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 3 cups basmati rice (rinsed and soaked in water for 30 minutes); 1.5 lbs chicken, cut into pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, minced; 2-3 pieces green chilies, slit; 1 teaspoon coriander powder; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; Salt, to taste; 1/4 cup cooking oil or ghee; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 2-3 whole cloves; 2-3 pods green cardamom; 1 small stick cinnamon; 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 4 cups water; Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish; Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

ByRita Bennet October 22, 2025October 22, 2025

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Introduction

Chicken Biryani is a flavorful and aromatic Indian rice dish that combines tender chicken with fragrant spices and basmati rice. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe brings together rich layers of taste in a single pot.

A white bowl full of layered biryani shows long yellow and white fragrant rice grains at the base, mixed with seasoned spices. On top are two pieces of cooked chicken drumsticks with a golden-brown crust. The dish is garnished with fresh green coriander leaves and fried onion strings. In the center, a dollop of white creamy yogurt sauce with green herbs adds contrast. The background is a white marbled texture with out-of-focus small dishes. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups basmati rice (rinsed and soaked in water for 30 minutes)
1.5 lbs chicken, cut into pieces

1 large onion, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced

1 inch ginger, minced
2-3 pieces green chilies, slit

1 cup plain yogurt
1/4 cup cooking oil or ghee
1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric powder

2-3 whole cloves
2-3 pods green cardamom
1 small stick cinnamon

Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

4 cups water

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, yogurt, garlic, ginger, green chilies, coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge for more flavor.

Step 3: Heat the oil or ghee in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 5: Add the marinated chicken to the pot and cook until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Once the chicken is browned, add the soaked and drained rice to the pot. Gently stir to combine with the chicken and spices.
Step 7: Pour in the 4 cups of water and season with additional salt if needed. Bring to a boil.
Step 8: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the water.

Step 9: Turn off the heat and let the biryani rest, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 10: Fluff the biryani gently with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and mint leaves.

Tips & Variations

For extra richness, use ghee instead of cooking oil.

Adjust green chilies to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
Adding fried onions on top before serving adds a nice crunch and sweetness.
Include boiled eggs or potatoes for a more filling variation.

Storage

Store leftover biryani in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat or microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

The image shows a white bowl filled with biryani, layered with yellow and white long-grain rice mixed with spices. On top, there are two pieces of browned chicken with a slightly charred texture, sprinkled with chopped green herbs. Some white yogurt sauce with chopped herbs is visible among the rice, adding a creamy texture. The background features a blurred bowl of more yogurt sauce on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for biryani?

Basmati rice is preferred for its fragrance and long grains, but you can substitute with other long-grain rice varieties if needed. Avoid short-grain rice as it tends to be stickier.

Is marinating the chicken overnight necessary?

Marinating overnight enhances the flavors and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, 30 minutes of marination will still yield delicious results.

Rita Bennet