Can’t wait to taste the Chicken biryani? Christmas is a time for joy, celebration, and, of course, delicious food. Christmas brunch is the most-awaited moment of the day. While the traditional festive spread often includes roasted turkey and glazed ham, why not surprise your loved ones with a flavourful twist this year? It’s always the taste of Indian biryani that enhance the mood of festive celebration. Elevate your Christmas brunch with a mouthwatering Chicken Biryani that combines the richness of Indian spices with the festive spirit. This aromatic and hearty dish will undoubtedly be a crowd-pleaser, making your Christmas celebration even more memorable.
Ingredients:
To prepare the perfect Christmas Chicken Biryani, gather the following ingredients:
1. Chicken (bone-in, skinless) – 2 pounds
2. Basmati rice – 2 cups
3. Yogurt – 1 cup
4. Onions – 2 large (sliced)
5. Tomatoes – 3 medium (chopped)
6. Ginger-garlic paste – 2 tablespoons
7. Biryani masala – 2 tablespoons
8. Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
9. Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon
10. Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
11. Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
12. Bay leaves – 2
13. Cinnamon sticks – 2
14. Cardamom pods – 4
15. Cloves – 4
16. Fresh coriander leaves – a handful (chopped)
17. Fresh mint leaves – a handful (chopped)
18. Ghee (clarified butter) – 2 tablespoons
19. Cooking oil – 3 tablespoons
20. Salt – to taste
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Methods to Prepare:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
• In a large bowl, mix yogurt, biryani masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, ginger-garlic paste, and salt.
• Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for enhanced flavour.
2. Prepare the Rice:
• Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
• Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes.
• In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the soaked rice until it is 70% cooked. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Onions:
• In a deep pan, heat oil and ghee together. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, and cloves.
• Sauté sliced onions until golden brown.
4. Cook the Chicken:
• Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they become soft.
• Add marinated chicken and cook until it is partially cooked.
5. Layering:
• In a separate large, heavy-bottomed pot, start layering the biryani.
• Start with a layer of partially cooked rice, followed by a layer of the chicken mixture. Repeat until all the rice and chicken are used.
• Sprinkle garam masala, chopped coriander leaves, and mint leaves between the layers.
6. Dum Cooking:
• Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or seal with aluminium foil to create a steamy environment for the biryani.
• Cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the rice to cook completely.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
• Softly fluff the biryani with a fork, mixing the layers.
• Garnish with additional fresh coriander and mint leaves.
• Serve the Christmas Chicken Biryani hot with raita or a side salad.
This Christmas, surprise your family and friends with a festive twist on brunch by serving a fragrant and flavourful Chicken Biryani. The combination of aromatic spices, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked rice will make it a meal to remember. Embrace the diverse flavours of the season and create lasting memories with this delightful and unique addition to your Christmas feast. It’s an Indian-style of festive-satiation!
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