Malabar Chicken Biryani Recipe: How to make easy Chicken Biryani?

Malabari Chicken Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful rice dish that originates from the Malabar region of Kerala, India. This dish is celebrated for its luscious blend of spices, tender chicken, and aromatic basmati rice. Characterized by its vibrant yellow hue, which comes from the use of saffron and turmeric, Malabari Chicken Biryani is a perfect representation of the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine. The dish is layered with marinated chicken, fragrant herbs, and delicate spices, resulting in a harmonious balance of tastes that are both rich and comforting. Whether you’re serving it for a festive occasion or a cozy family meal, this biryani is sure to impress with its tantalizing aroma and delightful textures.

Ingredients

For an authentic Malabari Chicken Biryani, gather the following ingredients. This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people.

For the Chicken Marinade:

• Chicken: 600 grams (about 1.3 lbs), bone-in, skinless, cut into pieces
• Yogurt: 1 cup (preferably thick)
• Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Red Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
• Turmeric Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
• Coriander Powder: 1 tablespoon
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
• Salt: to taste
• Fresh Cilantro: 1/4 cup, finely chopped
• Mint Leaves: 1/4 cup, finely chopped

For the Rice:

• Basmati Rice: 2 cups, rinsed and soaked in water for 30 minutes
• Water: 4 cups (adjust based on rice brand)
• Whole spices:
  • Bay Leaves: 2
  • Cinnamon Stick: 1-inch piece
  • Cloves: 4-5
  • Cardamom Pods: 4
  • Mace: 1 flower (optional)
• Saffron: a pinch soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk or water (optional for color and aroma)

For the Biryani Assembly:

• Onions: 2 large, thinly sliced
• Ghee or Oil: 2-3 tablespoons (ghee preferred for authentic flavor)
• Cashews: 1/4 cup (optional)
• Raisins: 1/4 cup (optional)
• Fried Onions: for garnish (store-bought or homemade)
• Additional Fresh Herbs: extra mint and cilantro for garnishing

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious Malabari Chicken Biryani that you can prepare in around 30 minutes.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (15 Minutes)

1. Combine the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the thick yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, coriander powder, lemon juice, and salt. Whisk until well-blended.
2. Add the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Mix in the chopped cilantro and mint leaves.
3. Rest the Marinade: Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate while you prepare the rice and aromatic spices.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice (15 Minutes)

1. Rinse the Rice: After soaking, drain and rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear, to remove excess starch.
2. Boil Water: In a large pot, add 4 cups of water, the whole spices (bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and mace), and salt. Bring it to a boil.
3. Add Rice: Once the water is boiling, add the soaked rice. Stir gently to avoid breaking the grains.
4. Cook the Rice: Cook the rice for about 7-8 minutes or until it’s 70% cooked (it should still have a slight bite). Do not overcook. Drain the rice in a colander and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken (10 Minutes)

1. Fry Onions: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Marinated Chicken: Once the onions are golden, add the marinated chicken along with all the marinade. Cook on medium high heat for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Ensure it is not completely dry; a bit of moisture is desirable as it will blend with the rice.
3. Add Optional Ingredients: If using, stir in cashews and raisins at this stage, and let them cook with the chicken for an additional minute.

Step 4: Layer the Biryani (5 Minutes)

1. Layering the Rice: Now, reduce the heat to low. Spread the cooked rice evenly over the chicken layer.
2. Drizzle Saffron Milk: If using saffron, drizzle the saffron milk over the rice for an aromatic touch.
3. Garnish: Garnish with fried onions, additional chopped cilantro, and mint leaves.

Step 5: Steam the Biryani (5 Minutes)

1. Seal and Cook: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Cook the biryani on low heat for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish cooking.
2. Remove from Heat: After the steaming, turn off the heat and let the pot sit for an additional 5 minutes before opening.

Step 6: Serve

1. Fluff and Serve: Carefully fluff the biryani using a fork to separate the rice layers, being gentle not to break the grains.
2. Dish It Up: Serve hot, garnished with more fresh herbs and accompanied by cool cucumber raita or a side salad.

Serving Suggestions

Malabari Chicken Biryani can be served as a standalone meal due to its rich blend of flavors, but here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

• Raita: Pair the biryani with a cooling cucumber raita made of yogurt, shredded cucumber, and spices for a refreshing balance.
• Salad: A simple salad of sliced onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers, dressed with lemon juice and salt, complements the dish perfectly.
• Pickles: Serve with tangy mango or lemon pickles for an extra burst of flavor.
• Beverages: Accompany the biryani with a refreshing mint lemonade or a glass of sweetened lassi.

Nutritional Information

Malabari Chicken Biryani is not just delicious; it’s packed with nutritional benefits:

• Protein: The chicken provides a good source of lean protein essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Carbohydrates: Basmati rice is a great source of energy with a low Glycemic Index, making it suitable for a balanced diet.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint contribute antioxidants and vitamins A and C, which are beneficial for overall health.
• Healthy Fats: Using ghee or healthy oils adds beneficial fats, promoting heart health when consumed in moderation.

Conclusion

Malabari Chicken Biryani is a captivating dish that combines tradition with convenience, allowing you to indulge in a culinary experience rich in flavor and history. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply looking to impress your family with a comforting meal, this recipe serves as a perfect option. With its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, this biryani truly captures the essence of Malabari cuisine. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe, and feel free to make it your own by adding personal touches!

Happy cooking!