Special Sri Lankan Style Chicken Biriyani 🇱🇰 🍚 | What's On The Menu 🥘

basmati rice

🥗Healthier: brown rice

💰Cheaper: long-grain rice

Brown rice offers more fiber, while long-grain rice is often less expensive.

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: light coconut milk

💰Cheaper: milk + coconut extract

Light coconut milk reduces calories, while the substitute is more affordable.

chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Tofu is a plant-based alternative, while thighs are often less expensive than breasts.

yogurt

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt is a healthier option, while sour cream is usually cheaper.

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 8-10 minutes.

Stir in cinnamon, cardamom, and curry leaves; cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Add marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer; cover and cook for 15 minutes.

Remove chicken and set aside; keep the sauce in the pot.

Add rinsed basmati rice to the pot, stirring to combine with the sauce.

Pour in enough water to cover the rice by 1 inch; add salt to taste.

Place chicken on top of the rice, cover, and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.

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

Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with fried onions and fresh herbs.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary