Easy Healthy Chicken Biryani Recipe

Discover a wholesome version of the classic Chicken Biryani that retains all the tantalizing flavors while focusing on healthier ingredients and cooking methods. This recipe offers a perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and aromatic basmati rice, ensuring a satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 500 grams chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon saffron strands soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro and mint leaves for garnish
• 4 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 4-5 whole black peppercorns
• 2-3 cloves
• 2 cardamom pods
• 1 cinnamon stick

Cooking Method

1. Rinse and Soak Rice: Begin by rinsing the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain.

2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the garlic and ginger, and cook until fragrant.

3. Spice it Up: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until they start to brown. Mix in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil starts to separate.

4. Incorporate Yogurt: Stir in the yogurt, ensuring all chicken pieces are coated, and let it cook on low heat until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.

5. 

   Boil Rice: In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add bay leaf, black peppercorns, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon stick. Stir in the soaked rice and cook until it’s about 70% done. Drain the rice and set aside.

6. Layer Biryani: In a large pot, layer half of the partially cooked rice. Add the chicken mixture over the rice, followed by a garnish of cilantro and mint leaves. Layer the remaining rice over the chicken, drizzle the saffron milk on top, and cover the pot.

7. Cook Biryani: Seal the pot with a tight-fitting lid and cook over low heat for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice to fully cook.

8. Serve: Gently fluff the biryani with a fork before serving. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and mint if desired.

Nutritious Value

This Chicken Biryani is a balanced meal rich in protein, thanks to the lean chicken breast and Greek yogurt, which also contribute to a creamy texture without the added fat of cream. The spices not only offer an explosion of flavors but also bring anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Basmati rice, a low to medium glycemic index grain, provides a steady source of energy, while the olive oil offers heart-healthy fats.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the flavors of the Chicken Biryani, consider pairing it with a refreshing cucumber raita or a simple green salad dressed with lemon. For beverages, a chilled glass of salted lassi or a light, citrus-infused sparkling water can enhance the dining experience without overwhelming the palate.

Enjoy this healthy twist on a traditional favorite, bringing all the warmth and comfort of Chicken Biryani to your table with a nutritious edge.