Chicken Biryani Recipe: How to make Chicken Biryani?

Chicken Biryani with Egg is a delightful fusion dish that showcases the magic of Indian cuisine in a single pot. This aromatic one-pot meal combines tender, marinated chicken and fluffy basmati rice infused with vibrant spices, all topped with perfectly boiled eggs. Known for its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this biryani offers an irresistible harmony of spices, savory chicken, and the creamy texture of eggs. Whether you’re a novice home cook or a seasoned chef, this simple yet enriching recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or a special occasion.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful Chicken Biryani with Egg:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500 grams (1 pound) chicken thighs or breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 teaspoons red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola)

For the Biryani:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust based on heat preference)
• 2-3 whole cloves
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 4 hard-boiled eggs (boiled, peeled, and halved)
• 4 tablespoons ghee or oil (for frying onions and cooking)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, coriander powder, salt, lemon juice, and oil.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak it in water for about 15-20 minutes to help it cook evenly.
2. After soaking, drain the rice and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

1. Heat 4 tablespoons of ghee or oil in a large, heavy-based pot over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown and crispy, stirring frequently. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove half of the fried onions and set them aside for garnishing later.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

1. To the pot with the remaining onions, add the marinated chicken and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender.
2. Add slit green chilies, cloves, cardamom pods, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cumin seeds to the pot, stirring well to combine the flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

1. Pour in 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Once boiling, add the drained basmati rice and salt to taste. Stir gently to avoid breaking the rice.
3. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the water.

Step 6: Assemble the Biryani

1. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before lifting the lid.
2. Gently fluff the rice with a fork, mixing the chicken and rice without breaking the grains.
3. Layer the chopped cilantro and mint leaves over the top, and gently place the halved boiled eggs on top.

Step 7: Serve

1. Serve the Chicken Biryani hot, garnished with the reserved crispy fried onions, fresh cilantro, and mint.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your Chicken Biryani, consider serving it with:

• Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side (like cucumber or mint raita) that balances the spices.
• Naan or Chapati: Soft Indian breads to scoop up the biryani.
• Salad: A fresh salad with tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers dressed with lemon juice.
• Beverages: Pair your meal with a refreshing drink like mango lassi or a chilled soda.

Nutritional Information

Chicken Biryani with Egg not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a range of nutritional benefits:

• Protein: The chicken and yogurt add significant protein, essential for muscle health and repair.
• Healthy Fats: The use of ghee or oil supplies healthy fats, creating a satiating dish.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh cilantro, mint, and spices contribute antioxidants and a variety of vitamins like Vitamin A, C, and E.
• Low Carb Option: For a low-carb version, you can substitute rice with cauliflower rice, lowering the calories significantly.

Conclusion

Creating a delicious Chicken Biryani with Egg in under 30 minutes is not only achievable but also an enjoyable culinary experience for cooks of all levels. This simple recipe allows you to bring the essence of Indian cuisine into your kitchen without spending hours on preparation. The combination of vibrant spices, tender chicken, and perfectly boiled eggs makes this dish a standout choice for any meal. Don’t hesitate to personalize this recipe with your favorite spices or additional vegetables—cooking is all about experimenting and discovering new flavors. Enjoy your cooking journey and the delightful meal that awaits you!