🍗 One-Pot Chicken Biryani

If you’re a fan of rich, aromatic dishes packed with flavor, Chicken Biryani is the perfect choice. This classic recipe combines fluffy basmati rice with yogurt-marinated chicken and fragrant Indian spices, creating a delicious and satisfying meal in every bite.

✨ An easy one-pot recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions.

⏱️ Prep Time: 20 minutes

🕒 Marinating Time: 4 hours or overnight

🔥 Cook Time: 40 minutes

🍽️ Serves: 4–6 people

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

* 800 g boneless chicken thighs

* ½ cup plain yogurt

* 2 cloves garlic, minced

* 1 tablespoon lemon juice

* 1 teaspoon turmeric

* 1 teaspoon ground cumin

* 1 teaspoon ground coriander

* 1 teaspoon garam masala

* ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)

* Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Rice

* 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes

* 2 tablespoons butter or ghee

* 1 large onion, finely chopped

* 1 cup green peas

* 4 cups chicken stock

* 1 bay leaf

* 1 cinnamon stick

* 3 cardamom pods

* ½ teaspoon turmeric

For Garnish

* Crispy fried onions

* Fresh cilantro, chopped

* Fresh mint leaves

* Yogurt or raita for serving

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and spices.

Add the chicken and mix well until fully coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

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2️⃣ Prepare the Base

Heat the butter or ghee in a large pot.

Add the onion and cook until golden brown.

Stir in the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and bay leaf, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

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3️⃣ Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the pot.

Cook for 8–10 minutes until lightly browned and aromatic.

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4️⃣ Add the Rice

Add the drained basmati rice, peas, and turmeric.

Pour in the hot chicken stock.

Stir gently and bring everything to a boil.

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5️⃣ Finish Cooking

Reduce the heat to low.

Cover tightly and cook for 20–25 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Turn off the heat and let the biryani rest for 10 minutes before serving.

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💡 Tips for Success

✔️ Marinating the chicken overnight results in deeper flavor.

✔️ Use high-quality basmati rice for fluffy, separate grains.

✔️ Avoid stirring too much while cooking to prevent the rice from breaking.

✔️ Add raisins or toasted almonds for an extra touch of luxury.

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😍 The Result

A beautifully fragrant biryani featuring tender, spice-infused chicken and fluffy basmati rice, delivering authentic Indian flavors in every bite.