Chicken Biryani is one of the most loved dishes in India. It is full of rich flavors, soft chicken, and fragrant basmati rice. This homemade recipe is simple to follow and gives you restaurant-style taste using basic ingredients available at home.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Serves: 4-5 people
Ingredients
For Marinating Chicken
- 500 grams chicken (cleaned)
- 1 cup curd (yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped mint leaves
- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
For Rice
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cloves
- 2 cardamoms
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- Salt to taste
Other Ingredients
- 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 tomatoes (chopped)
- 3 green chillies (slit)
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- Fresh mint leaves
- Fresh coriander leaves
How to Make Chicken Biryani
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix chicken with curd, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chilli powder, coriander powder, garam masala, salt, lemon juice, mint, and coriander leaves.
Cover and keep it aside for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for 2 hours for better taste.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Wash the basmati rice and soak it for 20 minutes.
Boil water in a large pot. Add bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt.
Add the soaked rice and cook until it is about 80% done.
Drain the water and keep the rice aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Masala
Heat oil and ghee in a large pan.
Add sliced onions and fry until they become golden brown.
Add green chillies and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes become soft.
Now add the marinated chicken and cook on medium flame for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is almost cooked and the oil starts separating.
Step 4: Layer the Biryani
Spread half of the cooked rice over the chicken.
Add some fried onions, mint leaves, coriander leaves, and a little ghee.
Add the remaining rice on top.
Again sprinkle fried onions, mint, coriander, and a little ghee.
Step 5: Dum Cooking
Cover the pan with a tight lid.
Cook on low flame for 20 minutes.
Turn off the stove and let it rest for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Serving Suggestion
Serve hot Chicken Biryani with:
- Onion raita
- Boiled egg
- Mirchi ka salan
- Lemon wedges
The combination makes the meal even more delicious.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Biryani
- Always use good-quality basmati rice.
- Do not overcook the rice before layering.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the biryani on low flame for the best flavor.
- Use fresh mint and coriander leaves for a rich aroma.
- A little ghee makes the biryani more flavorful.
Conclusion
Homemade Chicken Biryani is tasty, filling, and perfect for weekends, family gatherings, or special occasions. With this easy recipe, you can prepare delicious restaurant-style chicken biryani in your own kitchen using simple ingredients. Enjoy it hot with raita and your favorite side dish!

