From Scratch: How To Make The Perfect Chicken Biryani – Step By Step With Pictures!

Chicken biryani is a beloved dish that tantalizes taste buds worldwide. Its fragrant spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice create a culinary masterpiece that is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps of making chicken biryani with vivid pictures to ensure success.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Biryani Masala:

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1 inch ginger, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/2 cup chopped mint

Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Step 2: Cooking the Rice

1. Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, bring the water and salt to a boil.
3. Add the rice and stir.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Making the Biryani Masala

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until golden brown.
3. Add the green chilies, ginger, and garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add the cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and black peppercorns and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala and cook for 30 seconds.
6. Stir in the yogurt and cook until the oil separates.
7. Add the cilantro and mint and stir well.

Step 4: Layering the Biryani

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, spread half of the cooked rice.
2. Top with half of the chicken marinade.
3. Repeat layers.
4. Pour the biryani masala over the rice and chicken.

Step 5: Steaming the Biryani

1. Cover the pot tightly with a lid.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Resting the Biryani

1. Once the biryani is cooked, remove it from the heat.
2. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken biryani hot with raita, a cooling yogurt sauce, and a side of salad or vegetables.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
• If you don’t have basmati rice, you can use jasmine rice instead.
• Add a few saffron strands to the biryani masala for an extra touch of flavor.
• If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can use a large pot or skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
• If the biryani becomes too dry during cooking, add a little bit of water or chicken stock.

Variations

• Vegetable Biryani: Replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, peas, and bell peppers.
• Lamb Biryani: Use lamb instead of chicken.
• Shrimp Biryani: Use shrimp instead of chicken.
• Hyderabadi Biryani: This variation uses a different spice blend and is known for its spicy flavor.

Why is Chicken Biryani So Popular?

Chicken biryani is a popular dish for several reasons:

• Flavorful: The combination of spices, herbs, and tender chicken creates a rich and flavorful dish.
• Versatile: Biryani can be made with different types of meat, vegetables, and spices, making it a customizable dish.
• Special Occasion: Biryani is often served at special occasions, such as weddings, festivals, and religious gatherings.
• Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavor, biryani is surprisingly easy to make, especially with this step-by-step guide.

Top Questions Asked

Q: How long does chicken biryani last in the refrigerator?
A: Chicken biryani can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze chicken biryani?
A: Yes, chicken biryani can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q: What is the best way to reheat chicken biryani?
A: The best way to reheat chicken biryani is in the oven or microwave. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the biryani for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. To reheat in the microwave, heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.