Best Easy Chicken Pulao Recipe

Chicken Pulao is an aromatic Indian chicken curry that's rich in protein and full of traditional flavor. Perfect for family gatherings, this chicken dish pairs beautifully with rice or naan for a complete meal.

Cook 65 min Difficulty NORMAL 415 kcal
#high protein #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • bone-in chicken pieces 1.5 lbs
  • basmati rice 2 cups
  • yellow onion 2 pieces
  • tomato 1 piece
  • plain yogurt 0.5 cup
  • garlic cloves 4 cloves
  • fresh ginger 2 tbsp
  • vegetable oil 3 tbsp
Seasonings/Sauce
  • cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • whole cloves 4 pieces
  • green cardamom pods 4 pieces
  • cinnamon stick 1 piece
  • bay leaf 1 piece
  • ground coriander 1.5 tsp
  • ground turmeric 0.5 tsp
  • ground black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • chili powder 1 tsp
  • kosher salt 1.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 42 g 41%
Protein 24 g 23%
Fat 15 g 36%
Serving size 320g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse the basmati rice in cold water until the water runs clear, then soak for 30 minutes and drain.

  2. 2

    Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté until fragrant and spices sizzle, about 1 minute.

  3. 3

    Add sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown and caramelized, about 10–12 minutes.

  4. 4

    Stir in garlic, ginger, and chopped tomato. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the tomato softens. Add ground coriander, turmeric, black pepper, chili powder, and salt, mixing well to coat the aromatics.

  5. 5

    Add the chicken pieces and cook, turning frequently, until lightly browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.

  6. 6

    Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in yogurt and cook, stirring constantly, until the yogurt blends and thickens slightly, around 3 minutes.

  7. 7

    Add drained rice to the pot, gently folding to combine rice with chicken and spices. Pour in 3.5 cups of hot water, then stir once and bring to a boil.

  8. 8

    Reduce heat to low, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer without uncovering for 23–25 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

  9. 9

    Remove from heat and let the pulao rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Chicken Pulao recipe?
The key ingredient is bone-in chicken, which not only infuses the rice with a rich, savory flavor but also contributes significantly to the dish's protein content and traditional texture. The combination of chicken with aromatic basmati rice forms the foundation of Chicken Pulao.
Q. How should I control the heat when making Chicken Pulao?
Begin by sautéing whole spices over medium-high heat to release their aroma, then adjust to medium for slowly caramelizing the onions. When simmering the rice and chicken together, reduce to low and cover tightly to ensure the rice absorbs all the flavors without burning. Heat control is vital at each stage to develop depth and prevent overcooking.
Q. How can I avoid mushy or undercooked rice in Chicken Pulao?
To achieve fluffy, separate grains, rinse and soak basmati rice thoroughly before cooking. Add the rice only after browning the chicken and aromatics. Use the correct water ratio, and once simmering, keep the pot tightly covered and avoid stirring. Allow the pulao to rest off-heat before fluffing to prevent breaking the rice.
Q. How many calories and how much protein per serving does this Chicken Pulao provide?
Each 320g serving of Chicken Pulao delivers about 415 kcal with 24g of protein. The macronutrient breakdown per serving is approximately 42g carbohydrates (41%), 24g protein (23%), and 15g fat (36%). This makes it a balanced, high-protein main suitable for varied diets.
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