ONE POT CHICKEN BIRYANI

Описание: One-pot chicken biryani is a simplified, time-saving version of the traditional layered dish, allowing you to cook aromatic basmati rice and succulent chicken together in a single vessel. 

Essential Ingredients

Protein: 1 lb (500g) chicken thighs (recommended for juiciness) or breast, cut into bite-sized pieces.Rice: 2 cups aged basmati rice (crucial for long, separate grains).Aromatics: 1 large onion (thinly sliced), 4 cloves garlic (minced), 1 inch ginger (grated), and 2 green chilies.Marinade: ½ cup plain yogurt, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp chili powder, and 1 tbsp Garam Masala.Whole Spices: 1 cinnamon stick, 2 bay leaves, 4 cardamom pods, and 5-6 cloves.Liquids: 3 to 3.5 cups water or chicken stock. 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate: Coat the chicken in yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, and ground spices. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes to tenderize the meat.Prep Rice: Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear, then soak it in water for 20–30 minutes. Drain and set aside.Sauté: Heat 2 tbsp oil or ghee in a large pot. Add whole spices until fragrant, then sauté the sliced onions until golden brown.Brown Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pot. Sauté for 5–8 minutes until the chicken is browned and no longer pink.Simmer: Stir in the soaked rice and pour in the water/stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to the lowest setting.Seal and Steam: Cover tightly with a lid (or foil) and cook for 20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.Rest: Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This allows the grains to firm up without breaking.Garnish: Fluff gently with a fork and top with fresh cilantro, mint, or fried onions before serving. 

Expert Tips for Success

Avoid Mushy Rice: Use a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to water (e.g., 2 cups rice to 3 cups water) since the chicken and yogurt also release moisture.Prevent Burning: Use a heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch Oven to ensure even heat distribution.Instant Pot Method: Pressure cook for 6 minutes on high with a 10-minute natural pressure release for the fastest results.