Instant Pot Chicken Biryani

When I think of comfort food, the first dish that comes to mind is Instant Pot Chicken Biryani. It’s a recipe that fills my home with warmth and heart, turning any ordinary day into a celebration. The aroma of spices mingling with tender chicken and fragrant basmati rice creates a sensory experience that is hard to resist. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I was craving something hearty yet simple. The Instant Pot made it so easy, taking the stress out of cooking while ensuring every flavor was perfectly locked in. As I sat down with my family, the smiles around the table confirmed what I had suspected all along: this was a dish meant to be shared.

What You’ll Need for Instant Pot Chicken Biryani

In creating the perfect Instant Pot Chicken Biryani, the ingredients are what truly shine. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavor and texture of the dish. The aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy basmati rice come together to create a culinary masterpiece that warms the heart. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups basmati rice – This long-grain rice is essential; its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors make it the perfect base for biryani.
• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast, chopped into 1-2 inch pieces – This protein adds heartiness and richness, soaking up all the wonderful spices.
• 2 tablespoons ghee or butter – Ghee adds a distinctive taste and aroma, elevating the dish to another level.
• 2 tablespoons canola oil or vegetable oil – This is used for sautéing the ingredients, providing a base for the flavors to meld.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced – Onions add sweetness and depth, and when they are sautéed, they become caramelized and delicious.
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste – This ingredient adds a warm, spicy kick that complements the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste – Garlic brings a savory element that rounds out the dish perfectly.
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped – Tomatoes add acidity and freshness, balancing the richness of the chicken and spices.
• 2 green chilies, chopped – These add heat and depth. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
• 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves – Mint offers a refreshing brightness that lifts the overall flavor profile.
• Salt to taste – Essential for bringing out the flavors in every ingredient.
• 1/4 cup coconut milk, full-fat – This adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness, enhancing the dish’s complexity.
• 2 1/2 cups water or chicken broth – This is the cooking liquid, crucial for getting the rice just right.
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped – For garnish, cilantro adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder – This adds a warm golden color and earthy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon red chili pepper powder – For those who love heat, this adds the perfect kick.
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder – This spice gives a fresh, citrusy taste that balances well with the other spices.
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder – A key ingredient that adds warmth and depth, characteristic of a good biryani.
• 2 bay leaves – These add a subtle aroma and flavor during cooking.
• 3 cloves – Cloves bring a sweet and spicy flavor that’s key for a rich biryani.
• 1 stick cinnamon – Adds warmth and sweetness, enhancing the dish’s complexity.
• 1 cardamom – Provides the aromatic, floral flavor that is essential in biryani.
• 1 star anise – A beautiful spice that adds a unique flavor and aroma.
• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds – These seeds add a nutty, warm flavor that complements the other spices.

How to Assemble Instant Pot Chicken Biryani

Making Instant Pot Chicken Biryani is a straightforward process that yields mouthwatering results. Each step builds upon the last, ensuring you end up with a fragrant and delicious meal. Let’s dive into the steps:

1. Begin by rinsing and soaking the basmati rice in water for about 20 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch, allowing the rice to cook up fluffy and separate. Drain the rice and set it aside.

2. Next, turn on the Instant Pot and set it to Saute Mode More. Once it’s hot, add the ghee and allow it to melt. The ghee will add a rich flavor to the dish.

3. Now, add the tempering ingredients, which include the cumin seeds, bay leaves, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Stir them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant.

4. After that, toss in the diced onions and sauté them until they turn light brown, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This is crucial for building the flavor base.

5. Now, add the ginger paste, garlic paste, chopped tomatoes, mint leaves, and green chilies. Sauté these ingredients until the tomatoes become soft, approximately 2 minutes. You’ll notice the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.

6. Next, add the chopped chicken and sauté it for about a minute until it turns white. This step is essential for sealing in the flavor.

7. Now, season the mixture with salt and sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili pepper powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder. Give everything a good mix to ensure the spices coat the chicken evenly.

8. Next, add the drained basmati rice gently to the pot, followed by water (or chicken broth) and the coconut milk. Stir everything together lightly to combine. Cancel the Saute Mode now.

9. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the vent is in the sealing position. Change the setting to Manual/Pressure and input 5 minutes on High Pressure. This will cook the rice and chicken to perfection.

10. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. After that, manually release any remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid, and give everything a gentle stir to fluff up the rice.

11. Finally, garnish your Instant Pot Chicken Biryani with fresh chopped cilantro before serving. Prepare to enjoy a dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious!

Customization Ideas

If you’re looking to put your own spin on Instant Pot Chicken Biryani, you’re in luck! This dish is incredibly versatile, and you can modify it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Adding Vegetables: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Simply sauté them along with the onions.
• Different Proteins: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by modifying the amount of green chilies or red chili pepper powder based on your preference.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like basil or parsley instead of mint for a different flavor profile.
• Cooking Liquid: Swap out water for vegetable or chicken broth for a richer taste.
• Garnishes: Top with fried onions or toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Serving Style: Serve with yogurt or raita on the side to cool down the spices and add a creamy element.

How to Enjoy Instant Pot Chicken Biryani

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Chicken Biryani, the possibilities are endless. This dish is not only a delight to taste but also a visual feast. Here are some ideas for enjoying it:

• Family Dinner: Serve this biryani as the centerpiece of a family dinner, accompanied by a side of yogurt or raita to balance the spices.
• Special Occasions: Perfect for celebrations or gatherings, this dish can be a highlight at parties, making it a great choice for festive occasions.
• Lunchboxes: Pack leftovers for lunch the next day. Instant Pot Chicken Biryani holds up well and gets even tastier as the flavors meld.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to create a complete meal.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy it during special occasions such as Ramadan or family get-togethers.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze portions of this biryani. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Chicken Biryani is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. With its unique blend of spices and tender chicken, it has become a favorite for both special occasions and everyday meals. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—your family will love it, and you’ll enjoy the convenience of cooking it all in one pot.

Instant Pot Chicken Biryani

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Chicken Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy basmati rice. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it promises a delicious meal that the whole family will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Indian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 1/2 lbs chicken breast chopped into 1-2 inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons ghee or use butter
• 2 tablespoons canola oil or vegetable oil
• 1 large yellow onion diced
• 1 teaspoon ginger paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic paste
• 2 medium tomatoes chopped
• 2 green chilies chopped
• 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves
• to taste Salt
• 1/4 cup coconut milk full-fat
• 2 1/2 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili pepper powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 cloves
• 1 stick cinnamon
• 1 cardamom
• 1 star anise
• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds

Instructions

 

• Rinse and soak the basmati rice for 20 minutes.
• Turn on the Instant Pot on Saute Mode More. Once Hot add the ghee and melt.
• Add the tempering ingredients, stir, and cook for 30 seconds.
• Next, add the chopped onions, and sauté until they turn light brown, 3-5 minutes.
• After that, add ginger paste, garlic paste, chopped tomatoes, mint leaves, and green chilies. Sauté until the tomatoes get soft, about 2 minutes.
• Add the chicken and sauté for a minute.
• Next, add salt, and the powder mix ingredients. Give everything a good mix.
• Add the drained basmati rice followed by water.
• Also, add the coconut milk, and give the mixture a stir. Cancel Saute Mode.
• Close the lid and position the vent in the sealing position. Change to Manual/Pressure and input 5 minutes on High Pressure.
• Once done with pressure cooking do 10 minutes of Natural Pressure Release and after that open the knob to release the remaining pressure.
• Carefully open the lid, stir, and garnish with cilantro before serving.

Notes

No additional notes provided.

Keyword Chicken Biryani Recipe, Easy Biryani, Indian Chicken Biryani, Instant Pot Biryani

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Meet Olivia Bennett

For me, cooking is about connection. Whether I’m making a quick breakfast or a three course dinner, I focus on the feeling the food gives you. I love the entire process of food blogging, from chopping the first onion to adjusting the lighting for the final photo. I’m the one who reminds the team to slow down and really taste the food as we go, ensuring every recipe has that “home-cooked” warmth.