Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani

Aromatic, vibrant, and full of bold flavors, this Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani is a one-pot wonder that brings together tender spiced chicken, fragrant rice, and a rich blend of herbs and spices. Jamie’s approach simplifies the traditional biryani, making it accessible for home cooks while preserving its depth and deliciousness. Perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or satisfying your craving for something hearty and wholesome, this biryani is as comforting as it is impressive.

What is Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani?

The Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani is a simplified take on the traditional Indian dish, made by layering marinated chicken with spiced rice and cooking everything together in one pot. The recipe typically uses boneless chicken, basmati rice, warm spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala, and finishes with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. It’s a balanced dish that combines texture, aroma, and flavor in every bite.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Granola Dust
• Jamie Oliver Lemon Bliss Tart
• Mary Berry Crab Pasta
• Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Full-flavored and aromatic – Bold spices and herbs in every spoonful
• One-pot convenience – Less cleanup, more flavor
• Great for meal prep or gatherings – Feeds a crowd
• Easily adjustable spice level – Kid-friendly and adult-approved
• Budget-friendly ingredients – Uses pantry staples
• Authentic taste, simplified method – Easy for home cooks

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani

For the Chicken Marinade:

• Boneless chicken thighs – 600g, cut into chunks
• Plain yogurt – 150g (about ½ cup)
• Garlic – 3 cloves, grated
• Ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
• Garam masala – 1 tablespoon
• Ground turmeric – ½ teaspoon
• Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – ½ teaspoon
• Juice of ½ lemon

For the Rice and Cooking:

• Basmati rice – 300g (1½ cups), rinsed and soaked for 20 minutes
• Vegetable oil or ghee – 2 tablespoons
• Onions – 2 large, finely sliced
• Tomatoes – 2 medium, chopped
• Green chili – 1, sliced (optional)
• Cinnamon stick – 1
• Bay leaf – 1
• Whole cloves – 3
• Green cardamom pods – 3, slightly crushed
• Chicken stock or water – 500ml (about 2 cups)
• Fresh coriander and mint – a handful each, chopped
• Fried onions – for garnish (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl (for marinating)
• Large heavy-based pot with lid
• Wooden spoon
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)
• Chopping board and knife

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, and spices.
• Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
• Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Rice and Aromatics

• Rinse basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in cold water for 20 minutes. Drain before using.
• In a large pot, heat oil or ghee over medium heat.
• Add cinnamon, bay leaf, cloves, and cardamom and sauté for 30 seconds.
• Add sliced onions and cook for 10 minutes, stirring often until golden and soft.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Add marinated chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned on the outside.
• Stir in chopped tomatoes and green chili, and cook for another 5 minutes.
• Add a few tablespoons of water if needed to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add Rice and Stock

• Spread soaked rice evenly over the chicken.
• Pour in the chicken stock or water, making sure the rice is fully submerged.
• Season lightly with salt, then bring to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer and Steam

• Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15–18 minutes.
• Turn off the heat and let it steam for 10 minutes more, undisturbed.

Step 6: Fluff and Garnish

• Gently fluff the biryani with a fork, mixing the chicken and rice.
• Sprinkle with fresh coriander, mint, and fried onions.
• Serve hot with raita, salad, or chutney.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani

• Cucumber raita or mint yogurt dip – Cooling and creamy
• Fresh tomato and onion salad – Adds crunch and acidity
• Naan or flatbread – For scooping and dipping
• Pickled mango or lime – Brings a tangy contrast
• Boiled eggs – A common biryani addition
• Chili sauce or chutney – For extra heat
• Sweet lassi or lemon soda – Great beverage pairings

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani

• Use good-quality basmati rice – Long grain and fragrant
• Marinate the chicken overnight – Deepens flavor and keeps it tender
• Cook rice gently and evenly – Avoid over-stirring to maintain grains
• Seal the pot well while steaming – Helps infuse flavor
• Soak the rice before cooking – Ensures it cooks evenly
• Use ghee for a richer flavor – Adds an authentic touch
• Let it rest before serving – Locks in aroma and moisture

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani

• Vegetarian version – Use chickpeas or paneer instead of chicken
• Add raisins and toasted cashews – For a festive twist
• Make it spicier – Add more chili or use hot paprika
• Use saffron milk for layering – Adds color and aroma
• Try with lamb or prawns – Adjust cooking time accordingly
• Low-fat version – Use skinless chicken breast and low-fat yogurt

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani

• Cool to room temperature before storing – Prevents condensation
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge – Keeps for up to 3 days
• Freeze in portions – Great for future meals (lasts up to 2 months)
• Label and date your containers – For easy tracking
• Reheat thoroughly before serving – Ensure it’s steaming hot

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani

• Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water and lid on
• Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between
• Add a bit of butter or oil while reheating – Restores moisture
• Avoid overheating – Prevents rice from turning mushy
• Garnish freshly again before serving – Keeps it vibrant

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani Healthier?

• Use brown basmati rice – For added fiber
• Skip fried onions and use raw shallots or herbs instead
• Use low-fat yogurt and less oil – Keeps it lighter
• Add vegetables like spinach, peas, or carrots – Boosts nutrients
• Steam or bake chicken before adding – Reduces oil
• Serve with a big side salad – Keeps the meal balanced

Nutrition Value (per serving):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 440mg

FAQs

Do I need to cook the rice separately for chicken biryani?

No, in this Jamie Oliver-style one-pot biryani, the rice is cooked together with the marinated chicken, allowing it to absorb all the spices and flavors directly.

Why do I soak basmati rice before cooking biryani?

Soaking basmati rice for 20–30 minutes helps the grains cook more evenly and stay long and fluffy, preventing clumping in the final dish.

How do I prevent biryani from becoming mushy?

Use the correct water-to-rice ratio, avoid over-stirring, and let the biryani steam gently with the lid on after cooking. Always use soaked, drained rice for best results.

Can I make biryani without marinating the chicken?

While you can skip marination, it’s not recommended. Marinating the chicken enhances flavor and keeps it tender during cooking. A minimum of 1 hour is ideal.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver Chicken Biryani brings together bold flavors, vibrant colors, and comforting textures in one easy-to-make dish.

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