Name: Layered Spicy Chicken Biryani: A Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 500 g chicken (bone-in or boneless); 4 tbsp yogurt; 3 tbsp biryani masala; 2 tsp cumin powder; 2 tsp coriander powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp garam masala; 1/2 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp red chili powder; 2 medium tomatoes, blended; 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Handful of fresh coriander, chopped; 2 medium onions, thinly sliced; 1 tomato, chopped; 1 cup water; 2 medium potatoes, peeled and halved; 1 tsp garam masala (for gravy); Salt, to taste; 550 g basmati rice, parboiled (70–80% cooked); Lemon slices; Fried onions (plus reserved from cooking); Fresh coriander, chopped; Mint leaves; Green chilies, sliced; Yellow food color mixed with 2 tbsp warm milk

Jump to Recipe

?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered is a culinary masterpiece that has become a staple in my kitchen. This dish features tender marinated chicken layered with aromatic basmati rice, crispy fried onions, and fresh herbs. Each mouthful is a delightful explosion of flavors and spices that transport you directly to the heart of Indian cuisine. The vibrant colors and rich aromas make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Let’s embark on this delicious journey together!

Why You’ll Love This ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered

This dish is not just food; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons to love this layered dish:

It’s incredibly flavorful, with spices that create a mouthwatering aroma.
The method of layering ensures that every bite is deliciously balanced.
Perfect for gatherings, this dish serves multiple people effortlessly.
Customizable with different proteins or vegetables, making it versatile.
Easy to prepare, even for beginners, with step-by-step instructions.
It represents a traditional Indian dish that showcases culinary heritage.
Healthy and hearty, providing a balanced meal with protein and carbs.
This dish can impress guests, making it ideal for special occasions.

With the stratified layers of flavors, you’ll find that each serving is unique and satisfying. Plus, it fits well in the diet of those who enjoy non-vegetarian meals!

Ingredients for ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered

Gather these items:

500 g chicken (bone-in or boneless)
4 tbsp yogurt
3 tbsp biryani masala
2 tsp cumin powder
2 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
2 medium tomatoes, blended
1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
1 tbsp lemon juice
Handful of fresh coriander, chopped
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
1 tomato, chopped
1 cup water
2 medium potatoes, peeled and halved
1 tsp garam masala (for gravy)
Salt, to taste
550 g basmati rice, parboiled (70–80% cooked)
Lemon slices
Fried onions (plus reserved from cooking)
Fresh coriander, chopped
Mint leaves
Green chilies, sliced
Yellow food color mixed with 2 tbsp warm milk

How to Make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered Step-by-Step

Step 1: Fry onions in oil until golden and crisp, then set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, marinate chicken with yogurt, biryani masala, cumin, coriander, salt, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, blended tomatoes, ginger garlic paste, lemon juice, and fresh coriander. Rest for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Step 3: In the same pan, add the marinated chicken and cook until oil separates. Add chopped tomato, water, and halved potatoes. Simmer until the chicken is tender and the gravy thickens.
Step 4: Layer half of the parboiled rice in a large pot, then add half the chicken gravy. Top with fried onions, mint, coriander, lemon slices, and green chilies. Repeat with remaining rice and toppings.
Step 5: Drizzle yellow food color mixed with milk on top, cover tightly, and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes to steam (“dum”).
Step 6: Once done, gently fluff the biryani with a fork and serve hot with raita or salad.

Pro Tips for the Perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh spices for enhanced flavor.
Let the chicken marinate longer for deeper flavor infusion.
Ensure rice is parboiled properly to avoid mushiness.
Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
Try adding saffron for a luxurious touch!

Best Ways to Serve ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered

Here are a few ideas:

Serve with raita for a cooling effect against the spices.
Pair with a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Offer naan or parathas as an extra side for a fulfilling meal.

How to Store and Reheat ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered

To store, place the ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. This dish is great for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered

What’s the secret to perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered?

The secret lies in the marination of the chicken. Allowing it to soak up the spices ensures a deep flavor profile throughout the dish. Additionally, the layering technique helps in achieving a balanced taste in every bite.

Can I make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier!

How do I avoid common mistakes with ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered?

To avoid common pitfalls, make sure not to overcook the rice during the parboiling process. Also, be cautious with salt as the gravy can become too salty if not balanced. Lastly, layer the ingredients carefully for even cooking.

Variations of ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=layered You Can Try

Feel free to explore these variations:

Swap chicken for lamb or beef for a different protein experience.
Add vegetables like peas or carrots for a vegetarian option.
Try adding nuts and dried fruits for a sweet and savory twist.
Experiment with different spices for a unique flavor profile.

Layered Spicy Chicken Biryani: A Flavorful Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 75 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Layered Spicy Chicken Biryani is a fragrant, flavorful, and colorful rice dish featuring tender marinated chicken, aromatic basmati rice, crispy fried onions, and fresh herbs. Each bite bursts with perfectly balanced spices and traditional richness.

Instructions

Fry onions in oil until golden and crisp, then set aside.
In a large bowl, marinate chicken with yogurt, biryani masala, cumin, coriander, salt, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, blended tomatoes, ginger garlic paste, lemon juice, and fresh coriander. Rest for at least 1 hour or overnight.
In the same pan, add the marinated chicken and cook until oil separates. Add chopped tomato, water, and halved potatoes. Simmer until the chicken is tender and the gravy thickens.
Layer half of the parboiled rice in a large pot, then add half the chicken gravy. Top with fried onions, mint, coriander, lemon slices, and green chilies. Repeat with remaining rice and toppings.
Drizzle yellow food color mixed with milk on top, cover tightly, and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes to steam (“dum”).
Once done, gently fluff the biryani with a fork and serve hot with raita or salad.