How to Master Oven-Baked Chicken Biryani- A Step-by-Step Guide to Authentic Indian Flavors

How to Prepare Chicken Biryani in Oven

Chicken biryani is a mouthwatering and flavorful Indian dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. While traditionally prepared on a stove or a tandoor, you can now enjoy this delicious meal in the comfort of your own kitchen using an oven. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to prepare chicken biryani in an oven, ensuring that you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 lb (450g) chicken pieces
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 cup yogurt
– 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons oil
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 2 green chilies, slit
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 2 bay leaves
– 2 cloves
– 2 cardamom pods
– Fresh mint leaves and coriander leaves for garnishing

Preparation

1. Begin by washing the basmati rice and soaking it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain the water and keep the rice aside.
2. In a large bowl, marinate the chicken pieces with ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, salt, and yogurt. Set aside for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, heat oil and add the cinnamon stick, bay leaves, cloves, and cardamom pods. Once fragrant, add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and green chilies to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the oil separates from the mixture.
5. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are well-coated with the spices. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Assembling the Biryani

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a deep, oven-safe dish, spread a layer of the cooked chicken on the bottom.
3. Arrange a layer of the soaked basmati rice over the chicken.
4. Sprinkle a layer of cashews, raisins, and fresh mint leaves on top of the rice.
5. Repeat the layers of chicken, rice, and garnishes until you reach the top of the dish.
6. Drizzle a little oil over the top layer and cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.

Cooking the Biryani

1. Place the biryani dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the top is crispy.
2. Once done, switch off the oven and let the biryani rest for 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and coriander leaves, and serve hot with raita or a side salad.

Now that you know how to prepare chicken biryani in an oven, you can impress your family and friends with this delicious and aromatic Indian dish. Enjoy your cooking!