Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Indian Chicken Biryani Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 81 reviews

A flavorful and aromatic Indian Chicken Biryani recipe combining tender seared chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and vibrant spices like yellow curry and ginger. This one-pot dish incorporates sautéed onions, softened carrots, garlic, fresh cilantro, and crunchy cashews for a well-rounded and satisfying meal served with yogurt and cucumbers or traditional Indian breads.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Coating

  • 1 pound chicken (cut into strips)
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 teaspoons yellow curry powder
  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

Vegetables and Spices

  • 1 large onion (chopped)
  • 5 large carrots (sliced)
  • 2-3 cloves garlic (smashed and minced)
  • 2 tablespoons yellow curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder

Rice and Cooking

  • 2 cups dry basmati rice
  • 3 1/2 cups water
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Garnish

  • 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup cashews (chopped)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken into strips and pat dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
  2. Coat the chicken: In a small bowl, mix flour, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, pepper, and 2 teaspoons yellow curry powder. Dredge each chicken strip in this mixture to coat evenly.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken strips spaced about 1 inch apart, working in at least two batches to avoid crowding. Sear each side for 1-3 minutes until browned. The chicken can remain slightly undercooked inside, as it will cook fully later with the rice. Remove seared chicken to a plate.
  4. Sauté onions: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the hot pan. Add chopped onions and cook for 3-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
  5. Prepare carrots: Place sliced carrots in a medium bowl with 1 tablespoon water and microwave on high for 3-5 minutes until soft but still firm.
  6. Add carrots to skillet: Add the microwaved carrots along with their liquid to the onions in the pan and cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
  7. Add garlic and spices: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add 2 tablespoons yellow curry powder and 1 teaspoon ginger powder, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
  8. Combine rice and liquids: Stir in the dry basmati rice, then add 3 1/2 cups water and 2 teaspoons kosher salt. Mix well and return the seared chicken strips to the pan, arranging them evenly.
  9. Cook the biryani: Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 17 minutes. Check that the rice is tender, carrots softened, and chicken cooked through. If not done, keep covered and cook a few minutes longer.
  10. Finish and garnish: Stir in 2 tablespoons butter until melted and combined. Fold in chopped cilantro and cashews for freshness and crunch. Optional: add golden raisins for sweetness.
  11. Serve: Serve the biryani hot with plain yogurt and cucumber slices. Alternatively, accompany with buttery roti or homemade naan for a complete Indian meal experience.

Notes

  • Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken to achieve a good brown sear instead of steaming.
  • Microwaving the carrots softens them quickly; you can steam instead if preferred.
  • The chicken only needs to be partially cooked during searing, as it will finish cooking with the rice.
  • You can add golden raisins when stirring in the garnish for a sweet contrast.
  • Adjust salt and spices to taste depending on your preferences.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/indian-chicken-biryani-recipe/