Ingredients
For Chicken Marinade:
- 800g chicken (bone-in)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- Salt to taste
For Rice:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- 2-3 green cardamoms
- 2 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Salt
For Layering:
- 2 onions (fried)
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Fresh mint leaves
- 3 tbsp oil or ghee
- Saffron soaked in warm milk (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Combine yogurt, spices, and chicken. Mix well and let it rest for 1–2 hours.
- Cook Rice: Boil water with whole spices and salt. Add soaked rice and cook until 70% done. Drain.
- Cook Chicken: In a pan, cook marinated chicken until partially tender and thickened.
- Layer Biryani: In a pot, add the chicken layer, then the rice, then the herbs and fried onions. Repeat layers.
- Add Flavor: Drizzle saffron milk and ghee on top.
- Dum Cooking: Cover tightly and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes.
- Serve: Gently mix before serving and enjoy hot.
Notes
- Always use basmati rice for best texture.
- Do not overcook rice before layering.
- Marination improves flavor and tenderness.
- Dum cooking is essential for authentic taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Dum Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian / Pakistani
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian