Chicken Biryani is one of the most loved and flavorful rice dishes in the world. Originating from South Asia, this dish is famous for its aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice. While many people think it’s hard to make at home, you’ll be surprised how simple it can be with the right steps!

Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing for a special gathering, this easy chicken biryani recipe will win hearts.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the rice:

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp salt

For the chicken masala:

• 500g chicken (with bone preferred)
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 medium onions (thinly sliced)
• 2 tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/4 cup cooking oil or ghee
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Salt to taste
• A handful of chopped coriander and mint leaves

Optional for layering:

• A few saffron strands soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
• Fried onions (for garnish)

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Rinse basmati rice 2–3 times, then soak it for 30 minutes.
2. In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add soaked rice and cook until it’s 80% done (firm but not mushy).
4. Drain and keep it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat oil or ghee. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.
4. Add marinated chicken and cook until the chicken is almost cooked through (about 15–20 minutes).
5. Add garam masala, chopped mint, and coriander. Stir well.

Step 3: Layer the Biryani

1. In the same pot, reduce the heat to low.
2. Spread half of the cooked rice over the chicken masala.
3. Add a layer of fried onions and a drizzle of saffron milk if using.
4. Add the remaining rice on top and cover the pot with a tight lid.

Step 4: Dum Cooking (Steam Cooking)

1. Place the pot on very low heat for 15–20 minutes (you can place a flat pan/tawa underneath to prevent burning).
2. After that, turn off the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Gently mix the biryani before serving. Enjoy it hot with raita, salad, or a boiled egg on the side.

🥗 Tips for Perfect Biryani

• Use basmati rice for authentic flavor and long grains.
• Marinating the chicken well enhances taste and tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the rice in the first boil — that’s the secret to fluffy biryani.

✅ Healthy Twist Ideas

• Swap chicken for vegetables or paneer for a vegetarian version.
• Use brown rice for a higher fiber, low-GI alternative.
• Add boiled eggs or nuts (like almonds and cashews) for extra protein.

Conclusion

Homemade Chicken Biryani may sound like a festive treat, but with this easy recipe, it becomes a go-to weekend favorite. It’s spicy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. Once you try making it, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!