If you’re looking to add a touch of exotic flavor to your dinner table, Chicken Biryani is an absolute winner! This fragrant and flavorful dish hails from the Indian subcontinent and is a delicious combination of spiced rice, tender chicken, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal, Chicken Biryani will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.
**Chicken Biryani**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups basmati rice
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil
– 2 tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 teaspoons ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt to taste
– 2 cups water
**Instructions:**
1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, ground coriander, cumin, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a large, heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven, heat the ghee or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are golden brown and caramelized, stirring frequently.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook until it is no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in the chopped cilantro, mint, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Add the soaked and drained rice to the pan and gently mix it with the chicken and spices until well combined.
8. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the Chicken Biryani simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
9. Once the Chicken Biryani is cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with additional chopped cilantro and mint before serving.
Feel free to accompany this aromatic dish with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) and mango chutney for an authentic Indian dining experience. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of Chicken Biryani with your loved ones for a memorable meal that’s sure to transport your taste buds to distant lands.
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Give this Chicken Biryani recipe a try and let the enticing aroma of spices and tender chicken fill your kitchen with warmth and flavor. You can easily customize the spice levels to suit your taste preferences, making this dish a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply craving a cozy meal at home, Chicken Biryani is a delightful choice that promises to impress.
