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Indian Spiced Chicken Biryani Bake

Authors
  • avatar
    Name
    ChefPandas
    Twitter

🍽️ Recipe Overview

  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Macro Focus: Balanced
  • Calories/Serving: 539
  • Time: Quick
  • Dietary Needs:
  • Serves: 1
  • Kitchen Equipment: Oven

👨‍🍳 Chef's Notes

For a quicker version, you can use pre-cooked chicken and rice, but the marination and spices will elevate the flavors further. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference for a milder or spicier biryani.

⭐ Why This Recipe Works

Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices tenderizes the meat while infusing it with flavor. Baking the biryani allows the aromas to meld together, creating a one-of-a-kind taste experience.

🧾 Ingredients

  • 150g chicken breast, diced (5.3 oz)
  • 100g basmati rice, rinsed (1/2 cup)
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt (60g)
  • 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 tbsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1/2 tsp garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

🔪 Preparation

  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, ginger, garlic, chili powder, and salt.
  2. Add chicken pieces, coat well, cover, and marinate for 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  4. In an oven-safe dish, layer marinated chicken at the bottom, followed by a layer of sliced onions, and then the rinsed basmati rice.
  5. Pour 1/2 cup of water over the rice, cover the dish with foil, and bake for 25 minutes.

🥘 Cooking Instructions

  1. Color: The chicken should turn opaque white after marination.
  2. Texture: The rice should be fluffy and fully cooked.
  3. Smell: Aromatic spices should fill the kitchen when baking.

⏱️ Timing Breakdown

  • Preparation: 10 minutes
  • Marination: 30 minutes
  • Cooking: 25 minutes

📊 Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 539
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 63g
  • Fat: 15g

🔄 Variations & Substitutions

  • Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free: Ensure all spices and yogurt are gluten-free certified.
  • Low-Carb: Replace basmati rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For added richness, drizzle a spoonful of melted ghee over the rice before baking.
  • Let the biryani rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to intensify.

🌡️ Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to retain moisture. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.