My Favorite Traditional Pakistani Recipe: Chicken Biryani

Pakistan has many famous dishes. But my favorite is Chicken Biryani. It is layered, fragrant, and made with patience. No wedding or celebration is complete without it.

Below is how it is been done;

1. Marinate the Chicken

• Chicken with bone: 1 kg

• Yogurt: 1 cup

• Ginger-garlic paste: 2 tablespoons

• Red chili powder: 1 tablespoon

• Turmeric: 1 teaspoon

• Salt: 1 teaspoon

• Marinate for 2-3 hours

2. Cook the Rice

• Basmati rice: 500g (soaked 30 minutes)

• Whole spices: cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, bay leaf

• Boil until 70% done (firm in center)

• Drain and set aside

3. Cook the Chicken Curry

• Fry sliced onions until golden

• Add marinated chicken. Cook 5-7 minutes.

• Add tomatoes and green chilies

• Cook until oil separates

• Add fresh coriander and mint

4. Layer the Biryani

• Add half the rice in heavy pot

• Spread all chicken curry on top

• Sprinkle fried onions, coriander, mint

• Add remaining rice on top

• Drizzle saffron milk and ghee

5. Dum (Steam Cook)

• Seal pot tightly with dough or foil

• Cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes

• Do not open the lid

6. Serve

• Gently fluff the rice

• Garnish with fried onions and coriander

• Serve with raita (yogurt sauce)