High Calorie Rice Lunch: Chicken Biryani with Fried Onions Recipe

Fragrant layered biryani with chicken and crispy fried onions on top. This Indian high calorie rice lunch fills the room with spice aromas before the first bite.

Cook 105 min Difficulty HARD 820 kcal
#high protein #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • basmati rice 2.5 cups
  • boneless skinless chicken thighs 2 lbs
  • yellow onions 4 pieces
  • whole milk yogurt 1 cup
  • vegetable oil 0.75 cup
  • fresh cilantro 0.5 cup
  • fresh mint leaves 0.5 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • garlic cloves 6 pieces
  • ginger 2 tbsp
  • ground turmeric 1 tsp
  • ground cumin 2 tsp
  • ground coriander 2 tsp
  • garam masala 2 tsp
  • cayenne pepper 0.5 tsp
  • whole cloves 6 pieces
  • whole green cardamom pods 6 pieces
  • bay leaves 2 pieces
  • cinnamon stick 1 pieces
  • kosher salt 2.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 98 g 48%
Protein 37 g 18%
Fat 30 g 34%
Serving size 400g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Thinly slice 3 onions for frying. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add 0.5 cup oil and fry sliced onions in batches, stirring constantly, until deep golden brown and crispy (8-12 minutes per batch). Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, mix yogurt, garlic (grated), ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, half of the fried onions, and 1.5 tsp salt. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and marinate at least 1 hour (up to overnight) in the fridge.

  3. 3

    Rinse basmati rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water plus 1 tsp salt, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods to a boil. Add rice and parboil for 5–6 minutes until 70% cooked. Drain immediately and discard whole spices.

  4. 4

    In the Dutch oven, heat 0.25 cup oil over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook, stirring, until chicken is lightly browned and spices are aromatic (7–10 minutes). Spread chicken in an even layer.

  5. 5

    Layer half the parboiled rice over chicken. Sprinkle with mint and cilantro, cayenne, garam masala, and remaining fried onions. Top with remaining rice, a splash of oil over the surface, and a small pinch of salt.

  6. 6

    Cover tight with foil and lid. Reduce heat to low and cook ('dum') for 30–35 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes uncovered before fluffing gently to serve.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What ingredient most defines the flavor of this biryani recipe?
The combination of garam masala, cumin, coriander, and fried onions defines the signature flavor of this Chicken Biryani. The ground spices create aromatic warmth and the crispy onions add depth and sweetness that sets this biryani apart.
Q. Which cooking step is crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken?
Marinating the chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, and half the fried onions is essential for both moisture and flavor. Allowing the chicken to sit in the marinade for at least an hour (or overnight if possible) ensures the meat stays tender and absorbs the spices deeply.
Q. How do I avoid mushy rice in my biryani?
Reduce the risk of mushy rice by parboiling it to only 70% doneness before layering. Drain the rice well after boiling and avoid overcooking in the steam phase. Letting the biryani rest before fluffing also helps preserve individual rice grains.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving?
Each 400g serving of Chicken Biryani provides approximately 820 kcal and 37g of protein, accounting for 18% of total calories from protein and 48% from carbohydrates—making it both a hearty and satisfying meal.
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