Authentic Kolkata Chicken Biryani Recipe
1 hour 40 minutes
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About Authentic Kolkata Chicken Biryani Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of Kolkata with this authentic Chicken Biryani recipe. Unlike other biryanis, this Bengali specialty features tender chicken and fluffy basmati rice, perfectly complemented by the unique addition of potatoes that soak up the aromatic spices. The caramelized onions and fragrant blend of whole spices create a truly unforgettable culinary journey.This recipe unveils the secret to Kolkata's beloved biryani: the interplay of textures and tastes, from the succulent chicken to the melt-in-your-mouth potatoes. Each layer is carefully crafted to ensure a harmonious balance of spices and flavors in every bite. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting home-cooked meal, this Kolkata Chicken Biryani is guaranteed to impress. Prepare to be transported to the heart of Bengal with every delicious mouthful!
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Recipe Time & More
Prep40 minutes
Cook1 hour
Total1 hour 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 500 gm Chicken bone-in, skin-on thighs and drumsticks recommended
- 120 gm Yogurt plain, full-fat
- 1.5 tsp Salt or to taste
- 1 tsp Chili Powder red
- 1.5 tsp Spice Blend 1 tsp cinnamon, 2 tsp cardamom (green or black), 2 tsp cloves
- 2 tbsp Oil refined oil or ghee
- 1 Bay Leaf
For the Biryani
- 2 Onion large, sliced
- 2 Potato medium, halved
- 1 tbsp Ginger Garlic Paste
- 5 Cloves whole
- 2 Cardamom green or black, whole
- 1 stick Cinnamon
- 2 Star Anise whole
- 1/4 tsp Saffron Strands dipped in 2 tbsp warm milk
- 1/2 cup Coriander fresh, chopped
- 2 cup Basmati Rice long-grain
- 1.5 drops Kewra Water optional, adds floral aroma
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
- Marinate the chicken with yogurt, salt, red chili powder, the prepared spice blend (cloves, cinnamon, cardamom), bay leaf, and 2 tablespoons of oil for at least 4-5 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
Prepare the Potatoes
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan or kadai. Deep-fry the halved potatoes until golden brown and slightly crispy. Set aside.
Cook the Rice
- Rinse the basmati rice until the water runs clear. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil with the whole cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, star anise, and salt. Add the rice and cook until about half-done (al dente), about 8-10 minutes. Reserve the starchy cooking water.
Sauté the Onions and Chicken
- In the same kadai, add the remaining oil. Sauté the sliced onions until golden brown. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
Layer and Cook the Biryani
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and stir for a minute. Add the pre-fried potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes. Now, layer the half-cooked rice over the chicken and potatoes. Sprinkle the fried onions, chopped coriander, and saffron-infused milk evenly over the top.
Seal and Simmer
- Mix 1/2 cup of the reserved rice water with 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered rice. Sprinkle with kewra water (optional). Cover the kadai tightly, sealing the lid with dough or aluminum foil to prevent steam from escaping. Cook over very low heat for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors have melded.
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips for the Perfect Kolkata Chicken Biryani
- Marinate Overnight: For the most flavorful biryani, marinate the chicken for at least 4-5 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
- Don't Overcook the Rice: Slightly undercooking the rice before layering is crucial as it will continue to cook in the steaming process. Overcooked rice will result in a mushy biryani.
- Low and Slow: Cooking the biryani on low heat for an extended period allows the flavors to meld and the rice to become perfectly tender. Patience is key to achieving that authentic Kolkata taste.
- Sealing is Essential: Ensure the lid of your pot is sealed tightly to trap the steam and create a moist environment for the rice to cook evenly. Using dough or aluminum foil will help.
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Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 1244kcalCarbohydrates: 201gProtein: 43gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 93mgSodium: 1887mgPotassium: 1618mgFiber: 11gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 773IUVitamin C: 54mgCalcium: 182mgIron: 6mg
Sreemoyee Bhattacharjee
Articles: 103
3 Comments
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This looks so appealing! Thanks for sharing.
This is exactly what I was looking for!
This looks so inviting! Thank you.