Delicious Chicken Biryani for Ramadan: A Flavourful Feast to Break Your Fast

Looking for a hearty and flavourful dish to elevate your Iftar meal? Chicken Biryani is the ultimate Ramadan delight, bringing together rich aromas, tender meat, and perfectly spiced rice in every bite. A staple in many households during the holy month, this beloved dish is more than just a meal—it symbolises togetherness, warmth, and tradition. As families gather to break their fast, the fragrant layers of biryani, made with Kohinoor Extra Long Basmati Rice, create an unforgettable dining experience.  

The long, fluffy grains absorb the flavours of saffron, spices, and marinated chicken, making every spoonful a celebration of taste and texture. Whether preparing a grand Iftar spread or a simple yet satisfying dinner, Chicken Biryani is a must-have on the table. With this recipe, you can recreate the authentic flavours of Ramadan, turning each meal into a cherished moment with loved ones. 

The Essence of Ramadan Cooking: Flavor, Nutrition, and Togetherness

Ramadan meals are about more than just food—they celebrate togetherness, gratitude, and tradition. After a day of fasting, Iftar brings families and friends together to share nourishing and flavourful dishes that restore energy and uplift the spirit. Chicken Biryani, a Ramadan favourite, is both delicious and nutritious.  

Packed with protein-rich chicken, aromatic spices, and fibre-filled Kohinoor Extra Long Basmati Rice, it provides essential nutrients to replenish the body. The slow-cooked blend of spices enhances digestion, while the balanced mix of carbs and proteins ensures sustained energy. This wholesome dish embodies the essence of Ramadan—flavour, nutrition, and shared joy. 

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Delicious Chicken Biryani (Serves 4)

Chicken Biryani is a rich, aromatic, and satisfying dish perfect for Ramadan. This dish is a festive favourite for Iftar, with layers of fragrant rice, spiced chicken, and deep flavours. Follow this step-by-step guide to make a restaurant-quality Chicken Biryani at home using Kohinoor Extra Long Basmati Rice. 

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• Chicken: 500 g (bone-in, cut into medium pieces) 
• Plain yogurt: ½ cup 
• Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tablespoon 
• Red chilli powder: 1 teaspoon 
• Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon 
• Garam masala: 1 teaspoon 
• Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon 
• Salt: 1 teaspoon 
• Lemon juice: ½ lemon 
• Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons 

For the Rice:

• Kohinoor Extra Long Basmati Rice: 2 cups (soaked for 30 minutes) 
• Water: 4 cups 
• Salt: 1 teaspoon 
• Green cardamoms: 2-3 
• Cloves: 2-3 
• Cinnamon stick: 1-inch 
• Bay leaf: 1 
• Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon 

For Cooking the Biryani:

• Ghee or oil: 2 tablespoons 
• Onion: 1 large (thinly sliced) 
• Tomatoes: 2 (chopped) 
• Green chilli: 1 (slit) 
• Biryani masala: 1 teaspoon 
• Coriander leaves: ¼ cup (chopped) 
• Mint leaves: ¼ cup (chopped)
• Saffron-infused milk: 1 tablespoon 
• Fried onions: 2 tablespoons (for garnish) 
• Kohinoor Basmati Rice: 1 cup 
• Curry leaves: A few 
• Green chilies: 2 (slit) 

Preparation

Marinate the Chicken:

• Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl until the chicken is well-coated. 
• Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably overnight) for enhanced flavours. 

Prepare the Rice:

• Rinse Kohinoor Extra Long Basmati Rice under running water until clear. 
• Soak for 30 minutes to ensure long, fluffy grains. 
• In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add salt, cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, and cumin seeds. 
• Add the soaked rice and cook until it is 70-80% done (it should still have a bite). 
• Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking. 

Cooking the Biryani

Fry the Onions:

• Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. 
• Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Remove half for garnishing. 

Cook the Chicken:

• In the same pan, add the marinated chicken and cook on medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
• Once the chicken is halfway cooked, add chopped tomatoes and green chilli. Cook until the tomatoes soften and blend into the gravy. 
• Stir in biryani masala, coriander leaves, and mint leaves. 

Layering the Biryani:

• Lower the heat and spread the partially cooked rice evenly over the chicken. 
• Drizzle saffron-infused milk over the rice for a rich aroma and colour. 
• Sprinkle the reserved fried onions, coriander, and mint leaves on top. 

Dum Cooking (Slow Steaming):

• Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid or seal with dough to trap the steam. 
• Cook on the lowest heat for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavours to meld. 
• Turn off the heat and let it rest for 10 minutes before opening the lid. 

Garnishing & Serving

• Gently fluff the biryani with a fork to mix the layers without breaking the rice. 
• Garnish with additional fried onions, fresh coriander, and mint leaves. 
• Serve hot with cucumber raita, mint chutney, and fresh salad for a complete Iftar meal. 

Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of Chicken Biryani made with Kohinoor Extra-Long Basmati Rice—a perfect dish to elevate your Ramadan feasts! 

Tips for Pairing and Serving Chicken Biryani During Ramadan

Enhance your Chicken Biryani experience with refreshing side dishes like cucumber raita, mint chutney, and fresh salads to balance the rich, aromatic flavours. Cooling raita made with yoghurt, cucumber, and a dash of roasted cumin pairs perfectly with the warmth of the spices.  

For a visually appealing Iftar table, serve the biryani on a large, decorative platter, garnished with crispy fried onions, fresh coriander, and a sprinkle of saffron-infused milk. Add sliced lemons and whole green chillies for an elegant touch. Serve hot to delight your guests and create a memorable Ramadan feast. 

Cooking in Advance: Preparing Biryani for Iftar

Preparing Chicken Biryani in advance can save time and enhance the flavours, making it perfect for Iftar. Marinate the chicken the night before with yoghurt, spices, and lemon juice to allow the flavours to infuse deeply. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Parboil the rice in advance by cooking it until it is 70% done, then drain and let it cool completely before storing it in the fridge. When ready to cook, layer the marinated chicken and parboiled rice, and proceed with dum cooking. This method ensures a quick, hassle-free Iftar meal without compromising on taste. 

Savour the Flavor of Ramadan with Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani is more than just a dish; it celebrates flavours and traditions. The aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy Kohinoor Extra Long Basmati Rice create a delicious and fulfilling dish after a day of fasting. Whether shared with family or served at an Iftar gathering, biryani brings people together.  

Make this flavourful classic a staple in your Ramadan meals and create unforgettable moments with every bite. Try it today and experience the rich taste and superior quality of Kohinoor Basmati Rice. 

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