Chicken Biryani Recipe

Chicken Biryani is more than just a dish; it's an experience. A harmonious blend of fragrant basmati rice, tender chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, and caramelized onions, all layered and cooked to perfection. 

This traditional South Asian classic is beloved across the globe, known for its rich aroma and complex flavor profile. 

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you to create the best chicken biryani in your own kitchen.

🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Bursting with authentic Indian flavors
• Perfect balance of spices
• Tender, juicy chicken
• Long-grain fluffy basmati rice
• Ideal for family dinners or festive occasions
• Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions
• Make-ahead friendly and great for leftovers

🫓 What Do You Need to Prepare Chicken Biryani?

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 kg chicken, bone-in and skinless
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tbsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

For the Rice:

• 3 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
• 6 cups water
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3-4 cloves
• 1 tsp salt

For the Biryani:

• 3 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• A few strands of saffron soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
• Fresh coriander and mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fried onions (optional, for garnish)

📚 How to Make Easy Chicken Biryani Step-by-Step?

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, salt, and lemon juice. Add chicken pieces, mix well, cover, and let it marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt, bay leaf, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Add the soaked rice and cook until 70% done (firm to bite). Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Fry the Onions

Heat ghee/oil in a pan. Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown. Remove half for garnishing and keep the rest in the pan.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the onions in the pan. Cook on medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is nearly cooked and the masala thickens.

Step 5: Layer and Cook the Biryani

In a heavy-bottomed pot, start layering: add a layer of chicken with masala, followed by a layer of rice. Sprinkle chopped mint, coriander, saffron milk, and some fried onions. Repeat layers. Cover tightly with a lid or dough. Cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes (dum method).

🌿 Variations

There are many ways to customize this chicken biryani to your liking. For a spicier version, add green chilies or use a spicier chili powder. You can also prepare this recipe using boneless chicken for convenience, or replace chicken entirely with mutton, fish, or vegetables for a different twist. 

Chicken Biryani Recipe

Some regional versions add boiled eggs, potatoes, or even dried fruits like raisins and cashews. The Hyderabadi biryani uses raw marinated chicken layered with rice and cooked together, while Lucknowi (Awadhi) biryani involves partially cooked meat and rice assembled and finished in dum. 

You can also infuse rose water or kewra water for extra fragrance. Vegan versions use mushrooms, tofu, or soya chunks instead of meat, making the dish inclusive for all diets.

🍳 Cooking Note

Ensure your rice is only 70% cooked before layering; this prevents it from turning mushy. Always use a thick-bottomed pot or a biryani handi to avoid burning. Marination time is key the longer the better for juicy, flavorful chicken. Ghee adds a rich aroma, but you can use oil for a lighter version. 

If you prefer a deeper color, add a pinch of food-grade orange or red coloring to the saffron milk. While layering, avoid pressing down the rice; keep it fluffy. Seal the pot well using a tight-fitting lid or dough for an authentic dum cooking experience. 

Allow it to rest after cooking for at least 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors settle. This recipe yields a medium-spicy dish; feel free to adjust spice levels.

🍼 Serving Suggestions

Chicken Biryani is best served hot, straight from the pot. Pair it with cooling raita made with yogurt, cucumber, and mint to balance the heat. 

A fresh salad of sliced onions, tomatoes, and lemon wedges adds a crisp touch. For a festive spread, serve alongside boiled eggs, papad, and pickles. 

You can also pair it with mirchi ka salan (chili curry) for a traditional touch. Finish the meal with a sweet like gulab jamun or kheer. Biryani is a complete meal in itself, but sides can elevate the experience.

📖 Helpful Tips

1. Use aged basmati rice for the best texture and aroma.
2. Don’t overcook rice before layering; it continues cooking in the dum process.
3. Always marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours.
4. Use fresh spices for an authentic flavor.
5. Seal the pot well to trap steam inside for perfect cooking.
6. Keep the flame low during the final dum process.
7. Let the biryani rest 10 minutes after cooking before serving.
8. Don’t stir the biryani after layering to keep it from turning mushy.
9. Use saffron soaked in milk for color and aroma.
10. Garnish with fried onions and herbs for presentation.

🥑 Tips for the Best Chicken Biryani

• Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
• Use a mix of ghee and oil for rich taste.
• Use bone-in chicken for juicier meat.
• Do not skip the saffron milk layer.
• Cook the final dish on low flame and use a heavy-bottomed pan.
• Don’t rush the layering; it builds the flavor.
• Use a cloth under the lid if you don’t have dough to seal the pot.
• Fluff rice gently with a fork before serving.

🕛 Timing Overview

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Marination Time: 2-12 hours
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: Approx. 3 hours (including marination)

📊 Nutritional Information (approx per serving)

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Sodium: 680 mg

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?
A: Yes, but adjust the cooking time and water ratio.

Q: Is biryani spicy?
A: This version is moderately spicy; adjust chilies to your taste.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes! Biryani tastes even better the next day.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

📅 Conclusion

Chicken Biryani is a masterpiece of flavors, textures, and aromas. Whether you’re preparing it for a celebration, a family meal, or just because you love good food, this recipe delivers every single time. With careful layering, balanced spices, and traditional dum cooking, you’ll get a biryani that rivals any restaurant version. 

Bookmark this guide, and make it your go-to recipe for chicken biryani because nothing beats homemade!