Rich Butter Chicken Biryani

Rich Butter Chicken Biryani is a luxurious and indulgent dish that combines the flavors of succulent butter chicken with fragrant basmati rice cooked to perfection. This recipe is a celebration of traditional Indian cuisine, blending creamy and buttery textures with aromatic spices that will tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you are looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply craving a comforting yet flavorful meal, Rich Butter Chicken Biryani is a must-try dish that promises to deliver a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Recipe Quick Facts
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Medium
Cuisine Type: Indian
Course: Main Course
Dietary Labels: Non-Vegetarian
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of butter chicken
– The perfect blend of spices and aromatics for a truly satisfying meal
– Adaptable to different spice levels and personal preferences
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
– 500g boneless chicken, cut into pieces
– 1 cup yogurt
– 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
– 1 tsp red chili powder
For the Rice
– 2 cups basmati rice, soaked
– Whole spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves)
– Sliced onions
– Ghee
Equipment Needed
– Large skillet
– Cooking pot with a tight-fitting lid
– Mixing bowls
– Cooking spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, and red chili powder. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat ghee and add the whole spices. Sauté the onions until golden brown.
3. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until tender.
4. In a separate pot, layer the cooked chicken and partially cooked rice. Repeat the layers.
5. Cover and cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors are infused.
Pro Tips for Success
– Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor
– Use good quality basmati rice for the perfect texture
– Gently fluff the rice with a fork after cooking to avoid clumping
Substitutions & Variations
– For a healthier option, use brown basmati rice instead of white
– Add a handful of raisins and nuts for a touch of sweetness and crunch
– Adjust the spice levels by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Reheat: Microwave with a splash of water to retain moisture
Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken marinade and rice ahead of time for quicker assembly
Serving Suggestions
– Serve Rich Butter Chicken Biryani with a side of cooling raita and crispy papadum
– Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 450 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Sodium: 800mg
FAQ
1. Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble before serving.
2. Can I bake instead of fry?
Traditionally, this dish is cooked on the stovetop, but you can try baking it for a different texture.
3. What can I substitute for whole spices?
If you don’t have whole spices, you can use powdered versions, but adjust the quantity accordingly.
4. How do I know when it’s done?
The chicken should be tender, and the rice grains should be separate and fully cooked.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to a month.
6. How long do they last?
Stored properly, leftovers can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Recipe Notes
Rich Butter Chicken Biryani is a classic Indian dish that combines the flavors of butter chicken with fragrant basmati rice. It is a favorite at festive occasions and family gatherings, loved for its rich and comforting taste.
Rich Butter Chicken Biryani
Luxurious and indulgent, Rich Butter Chicken Biryani combines succulent butter chicken with fragrant basmati rice, creating a symphony of flavors that celebrate traditional Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
-
500g boneless chicken, cut into pieces
-
1 cup yogurt
-
2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
-
1 tsp red chili powder
-
2 cups basmati rice, soaked
-
Whole spices (cinnamon, cardamom, cloves)
-
Sliced onions
-
Ghee
Directions
-
Marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, and red chili powder. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
-
In a skillet, heat ghee and add the whole spices. Sauté the onions until golden brown.
-
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until tender.
-
In a separate pot, layer the cooked chicken and partially cooked rice. Repeat the layers.
-
Cover and cook on low heat until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors are infused.
