Get The Perfect Chicken Biryani For 20 People: A Step-by-step Guide

Chicken biryani is a beloved dish that combines fragrant spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply want to feed a large group, this step-by-step guide will empower you to prepare an unforgettable chicken biryani for 20 people.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste

For the Rice:

• 4 cups basmati rice
• 8 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Biryani:

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 green bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 red bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 cup chopped mint
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/2 cup fried onions
• 1 tablespoon saffron strands soaked in 1/4 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, coriander, cumin, garam masala, and salt.
• Mix well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice

• Rinse the basmati rice several times until the water runs clear.
• In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil.
• Add the rice, salt, and a pinch of turmeric.
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add 1/4 cup of ghee or vegetable oil.
• Add the onions and sauté until translucent.
• Add the bell peppers and continue to sauté until softened.

Step 5: Assemble the Biryani

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, layer half of the cooked rice, followed by half of the chicken, half of the sautéed vegetables, and half of the cilantro and mint.
• Repeat the layers.
• Pour the saffron milk over the biryani.
• Dot the top with sliced almonds and fried onions.

Step 6: Bake or Steam

• Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the biryani is heated through and fragrant.
• Steaming: If you don’t have an oven, you can steam the biryani. Place the pot on a trivet in a large steamer or pressure cooker with 2 inches of water. Cover and steam for 20-30 minutes, or until the biryani is cooked through.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

• Remove the pot from the oven or steamer and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
• Fluff the biryani with a fork and serve hot with your favorite raita or side dishes.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality basmati rice for the best flavor and texture.
• Do not overcook the rice; it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.
• If you don’t have saffron, you can substitute with turmeric powder.
• For a richer flavor, use bone-in chicken thighs.
• If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken for a shorter period.
• Garnish the biryani with additional cilantro, mint, and fried onions for extra flavor.

Variations

• Vegetable Biryani: Omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and potatoes.
• Paneer Biryani: Replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
• Mutton Biryani: Use mutton instead of chicken for a more robust flavor.
• Hyderabadi Biryani: This variation is known for its spicy and aromatic flavor profile. Add more chili powder and garam masala to the marinade.

Final Thoughts

With this comprehensive guide, you now have the confidence to prepare a delicious and impressive chicken biryani for a crowd of 20. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, follow these steps and enjoy the satisfaction of serving an unforgettable dish that will delight your guests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I make the biryani more flavorful?
A: Use high-quality spices and marinate the chicken for a longer period. You can also add a bit of kewra water or rose water for additional aroma.

Q: Can I make the biryani ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the biryani up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

Q: What side dishes go well with chicken biryani?
A: Raita, salad, papadum, and mango pickle are all excellent accompaniments to chicken biryani.