Go Back

Chicken Biryani Recipe

This Chicken Biryani Recipe is a rich and aromatic dish made with tender marinated chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and a blend of traditional spices. Cooked using the classic dum method, this recipe delivers the authentic taste of Chicken Dum Biryani with perfectly layered flavors. Whether you’re learning How To Make Biryani Chicken or recreating a restaurant-style meal like a Donne Biryani Recipe, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying option for family dinners or special occasions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 1 kg chicken cut into pieces
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons biryani masala
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • For the Rice:
  • 2 cups basmati rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 cardamom pods
  • 4 cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • Salt to taste
  • For Cooking:
  • 2 onions thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes chopped
  • 3 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup chopped mint leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon saffron soaked in warm milk optional

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, biryani masala, and salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Bring water to a boil with whole spices and salt. Add basmati rice and cook until 70% done. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat oil or ghee in a large pan and fry sliced onions until golden brown.
  4. Add marinated chicken and cook until tender and the oil begins to separate.
  5. Stir in chopped tomatoes, cilantro, and mint. Cook until the mixture thickens.
  6. In a heavy pot, layer half the rice over the chicken mixture, then add the remaining rice on top.
  7. Drizzle saffron milk over the rice for color and aroma.
  8. Cover tightly and cook on low heat (dum) for 20–25 minutes.
  9. Let the biryani rest for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
  10. Gently mix and serve hot.

Notes

  • For best results, use long-grain basmati rice to achieve the classic texture of Chicken Dum Biryani.
  • Marinating the chicken longer enhances flavor and tenderness.
  • You can customize spice levels to suit your taste.
  • This method can also be adapted into a Vegetable Biryani Recipe by replacing chicken with mixed vegetables.