Almost Core Chicken Biryani Recipe

Experience the rich, aromatic flavors of India with this Almost Core Chicken Biryani recipe! A slightly altered version from Food & Wine, this dish features tender chicken and fluffy basmati rice infused with fragrant spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 418.2 kcal
Protein 38g
Rating 3.7 (7 Reviews)
Almost Core Chicken Biryani 24

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Almost Core Chicken Biryani

  • Skim Milk
  • Saffron Thread
  • Olive Oil
  • Cardamom Pods
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 5-6 black peppercorns
  • Brown Basmati Rice
  • 2 cups water
  • Salt & Pepper
  • Onions
  • Tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Ginger Paste
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Cayenne Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Ground Cloves
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • Boneless Chicken Thighs
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)

How to Make Almost Core Chicken Biryani

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup warm milk with a pinch of saffron threads (about 1/8 teaspoon). Let steep for at least 10 minutes.
  3. Heat 3/4 tablespoon of oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Add 3 green cardamom pods, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 bay leaf, and 5-6 black peppercorns. Cook until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
  5. Add 1 cup basmati rice and stir to coat with oil.
  6. Add 2 cups water and 1 teaspoon salt. Bring to a boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and water is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
  8. Fluff with a fork and season with additional salt to taste.
  9. Meanwhile, heat 3/4 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  10. Add 1 medium onion, chopped, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  11. Add 1 medium tomato, chopped, and cook for 1 minute.
  12. Add 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 inch ginger, minced, 1 teaspoon garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste), 1/2 teaspoon turmeric, 2 cloves, 1 tablespoon curry powder, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
  13. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  14. Stir in 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. Add a few tablespoons of water if needed to prevent sticking.
  15. Cover and cook on low, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
  16. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  17. Spread half of the cooked rice in a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish.
  18. Top with the chicken mixture, then the remaining rice.
  19. Drizzle the saffron milk evenly over the rice. Top with 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter).
  20. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
  21. While the biryani bakes, heat the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  22. Add 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced, and cook until golden brown.
  23. Remove onions and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  24. Garnish the cooked biryani with the crispy fried onions before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

9g

Fat

27g

Carbs

13g

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