Maldivian style chicken biriyani

basmati rice

🥗Healthier: brown rice

💰Cheaper: long-grain rice

Brown rice adds fiber and nutrients.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: light coconut milk

💰Cheaper: milk + coconut extract

Light coconut milk reduces calories.

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Tofu is plant-based and lower in fat.

yogurt

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt is healthier and protein-rich.

Marinate chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and salt for at least 30 minutes.

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in green chilies and diced tomatoes; cook until tomatoes soften, about 3-4 minutes.

Add marinated chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.

Add coconut milk and bring to a simmer.

Stir in rinsed basmati rice and bay leaves, then add enough water to cover the rice.

Season with salt and spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves; mix well.

Cover pot and reduce heat to low; cook for about 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 10 minutes.

Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with cilantro and lemon juice before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: