Chicken Sindhi Biryani: A Flavorful Pakistani Rice Dish

1 hour

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4.34 from 3 votes

About Chicken Sindhi Biryani: A Flavorful Pakistani Rice Dish

Indulge in the rich flavors of Chicken Sindhi Biryani, a fragrant and aromatic rice dish hailing from the Sindh province of Pakistan. This recipe offers a delicious twist on the traditional lamb or goat version, using readily available chicken while retaining the authentic spice blend and sweet-tangy notes.
My personal journey with this recipe began with a spontaneous craving and the happy discovery of its incredible taste. While dried plums (prunes) are traditionally used, I substituted black raisins, creating a unique sweet and savory profile. The result? A truly unforgettable culinary experience!
This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. Get ready to be transported to the heart of Pakistan with every flavorful bite!
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Recipe Time & More

Prep20 minutes
Cook40 minutes
Total1 hour
Calories629 kcal
Serves5
Served AsLunch

Ingredients
 

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Instructions
 

Prepare Ingredients

  • Peel and thinly slice the onions lengthwise. Slit the green chili in half. Finely chop the coriander.
  • Wash the basmati rice and drain thoroughly. Boil the milk and gently simmer the saffron strands in it until the milk is colored a vibrant yellow. Set aside.
  • Combine red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala in a small bowl. Add a little water to form a smooth paste. Set aside.

Cook the Rice

  • In a large pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add 2 star anise, 1 bay leaf, 1 cinnamon stick, 4 cloves, 3 cardamom pods, and a small pinch of chopped coriander. Add the rice and cook until it is about 75% done, but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain the rice immediately and set aside.

Sauté Onions and Aromatics

  • In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the clarified butter or ghee. Add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until they turn a deep golden brown. Remove the onions and set aside 3/4 of them, reserving for later. Drain the excess fat.
  • Add the oil to the pot and sauté the black raisins, along with the remaining cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, bay leaf, and star anise, and the reserved fried onions. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the green chili and ginger-garlic paste to the pot and cook until the mixture turns a dark green color. Add the tomatoes and cook until they soften and break down.

Make the Chicken Biryani

  • Stir in the spice paste and cook for a few minutes until the oil begins to separate from the gravy. The gravy should turn a rich, dark red color.
  • Add the chicken pieces, and season with salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until slightly browned.
  • Pour in the yogurt and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Add 1 1/2 cups of water, cover the pot and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.

Layer and Steam

  • Layer the cooked rice evenly over the chicken and gravy. Spread the reserved fried onions on top of the rice. Pour the saffron-infused milk evenly over the top.
  • Cover the pot tightly with a lid, or use a plate and a weight on top to seal in the steam and aroma. Simmer over medium-low heat for 15 minutes.
  • Gently remove the lid, stir gently, and serve hot.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Sindhi Biryani

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice paste for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Use good quality basmati rice for the best texture and aroma.
  • Don't overcook the rice; it should be slightly firm to the bite.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, use a combination of ghee and oil.

Please appreciate the author by voting!

4.34 from 3 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 629kcalCarbohydrates: 88gProtein: 19gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 817mgPotassium: 711mgFiber: 6gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 737IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 186mgIron: 3mg

Madraasi Deepa
Madraasi Deepa

Full-time blogger, mother, food reviewer, product reviewer, and lover of exploring historical places and fashion.

Articles: 146
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4.34 from 3 votes

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