Chicken Biryani Recipe: A Traditional Indian Dish

Chicken Biryani is a popular and flavorful South Asian rice dish that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is a beloved dish in many households and restaurants and is often served on special occasions such as weddings, Eid, or Diwali. Biryani is made by layering fragrant long-grain basmati rice with a flavorful mixture of spices, meat, and sometimes vegetables. This dish requires some effort and time to prepare, but the result is a delicious and satisfying meal that is worth the wait.

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger paste
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup water
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions: 

1. Rinse the rice with cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are golden brown, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaves, and salt. Stir to combine and cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the plain yogurt to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot. Gently stir to combine the rice with the chicken and spice mixture.
7. Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
8. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
9. Turn off the heat and let the biryani rest for about 5-10 minutes. Then, remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork.
10. Garnish with chopped mint leaves, cilantro leaves, and fried onions (optional) before serving.

And there it is - Chicken Biryani is a delicious and aromatic dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner. With its fragrant spices and tender chicken, it is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves South Asian cuisine. While it may take some time and effort to prepare, the result is well worth it. Enjoy!