Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani

Indulge in the rich and flavorful world of Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani, a layered rice dish that combines tender marinated chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and an array of spices. This traditional Indian recipe will transport your taste buds to the streets of Hyderabad, delivering layers of aromatic goodness topped with fried onions and fresh herbs. Perfect for special occasions or a festive family meal!

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
2 cups basmati rice
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 cup yogurt
2 tomatoes, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch ginger, grated
4 green chilies, slit
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tbsp red chili powder
2 tsp garam masala
4 cups water
1/4 cup cooking oil or ghee
Salt to taste

Step by step making process

Step -1

In a bowl, marinate chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, turmeric, red chili powder, Coriander powder, Garam masala, oil and salt for at least 1 hour.

Step -2

Rinse basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then soak for 30 minutes.

Step -3

Heat oil or ghee in a large pot; fry sliced onions until golden brown. Remove half for garnishing.

Step -4

Add marinated chicken to the pot; sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned. Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies; cook until the tomatoes soften.

Step -5

Add chopped cilantro and mint; mix thoroughly. Cook for another 5 minutes.

Step -6

In a separate pot, boil 4 cups of water; add soaked rice, cooking until it’s 70% done. Drain the rice.

Step -7

Layer the half-cooked rice over the chicken mixture in the pot. Sprinkle garam masala and fried onions on top.

Step -8

Cover the pot tightly, reduce heat to low, and steam for 20-25 minutes.

Step -9

Serve hot, garnished with remaining fried onions and fresh herbs.