Onepot Wonder Easy Chicken Biryani

OnePot Chicken Biryani Easiest Weeknight Dinner

By Kendra ThompsonSeptember 28, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Craving Indian Tonight?

Ever just really fancied a curry but thought "ugh, too much effort"? Me too! That's why one pot chicken biryani is a total lifesaver.

This recipe packs all the flavour of a classic biryani into one pot. Minimal fuss, maximum taste!

This isn't your typical, multi layered dum biryani . This simplified biryani recipe version is all about ease. It's inspired by traditional Indian flavours, but tweaked for busy weeknights.

A Quick Taste of India

Biryani's origin stretches back centuries. It's a celebration dish across South Asia. Ours is a simpler, quicker take that anyone can nail.

This easy chicken biryani is rated as medium difficulty. It takes about one hour and thirty minutes , and feeds 4-6 people.

Why This One Pot Chicken Biryani Recipe Rocks

Forget spending hours in the kitchen! This weeknight biryani recipe is healthyish, thanks to lean chicken thighs and a good dose of spices.

The spices are key for flavour and digestion. The perfect occasion for serving? Any night you want to impress! What makes this chicken biryani recipe special? It's a dum biryani shortcut that doesn't compromise on flavour.

Honestly, it's pure comfort food.

Now, let's gather what you need!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Biryani Party Started!

Honestly, making one pot chicken biryani shouldn't feel like climbing Mount Everest. This section breaks down the ingredients and gear. Plus, I'll share some cheeky shortcuts I've picked up. Let's dive in!

Main Ingredients: The Biryani Building Blocks

Here’s what you need to whip up this easy chicken biryani . Remember, quality ingredients are key to a banging flavor!

Chicken Thighs: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Go for boneless, skinless thighs. They stay juicy. Feel free to use bone-in thighs.
Yogurt (for marinade): 1 cup (240g) . Full fat is best for that creamy, dreamy texture.
Basmati Rice: 1 cup (200g) . Rinse it good. Rinse it till the water runs clear. Trust me on this.
Chicken Broth/Water: 2 cups (480ml) . Broth amps up the flavour!

Seasoning Notes: The Spice is Right!

Good Indian one pot meals are all about those spices. Here's the magic combo for our one pot chicken biryani :

Ginger Garlic Paste: 1 tbsp (15ml) . A flavour bomb!
Garam Masala: 1.5 tsp (7.5ml) , divided. Use half for marinade, half for the rice.
Turmeric: 1 tsp (5ml) . Hello, sunshine colour and earthy taste!
Cumin Seeds: 1 tsp (5ml) . Toast them gently in the pot. You know?
Coriander Powder: 1 tsp (5ml) . Adds warmth and depth.
Red Chili Powder: 1/2 tsp (2.5ml) . Adjust to your heat preference.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Silly!

No fancy gear needed for this weeknight biryani . Here's the bare minimum:

Large Pot/Dutch Oven: It needs a tight fitting lid. This is critical for cooking rice perfectly.
Measuring Cups/Spoons: Accuracy is your friend here.
Cutting Board & Knife: Obvs.
Big Bowl: For marinating the chicken.

Honestly, that's all. You don't need a pressure cooker for this pressure cooker chicken biryani . Ditch the complicated dum biryani shortcut methods.

We’re keeping it simple, remember? Use ingredients you already have! This biryani with chicken thighs is achievable for anyone.

Let's get cooking this simplified biryani recipe !

One-Pot Wonder: Your Easy Chicken Biryani Journey Starts Here

Honestly, who has time for complicated recipes these days? This one pot chicken biryani is proper lush. It's all about getting that amazing biryani flavour without spending hours in the kitchen.

Think of it as your cheat code to a brilliant indian one pot meal .

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

First, get everything ready. Dice your onion, chop your coriander, and measure out your spices. It really saves time. Marinate 1.

5 lbs of chicken thighs with 1 cup yogurt, 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste, spices, and lemon juice. I usually do this while the rice soaks multitasking at its finest!

step-by-step: Simplicity is Key

Sauté 1 sliced onion in 2 tbsp oil until golden.
Add 1 chopped green bell pepper and sauté for 2 minutes.
Bloom 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp coriander powder, and 1/2 tsp garam masala for 30 seconds.
Add marinated chicken and cook until browned.
Stir in 1 cup rinsed basmati rice and 2 cups chicken broth. Season with salt.
Bring to a boil, then simmer, covered, for 20- 25 minutes .
Let it rest for 10 minutes , then fluff.

Pro Tips: Ace Your Biryani Game

Want to elevate your easy chicken biryani ? Brown your onions properly . They should be golden brown, not just translucent. It adds a sweet, nutty flavour.

I often use chicken thighs for biryani with chicken thighs they stay super moist! Another tip: don't skip rinsing the rice.

It stops your one pot chicken and rice becoming a sticky mess.

So there you have it, a simplified biryani recipe for a brilliant weeknight biryani . This dum biryani shortcut will change the way you see Indian cooking.

Whether you go the traditional route or use a pressure cooker chicken biryani , this chicken biryani recipe is a winner.

Give it a go and let me know what you think.

Recipe Notes for Your Amazing One Pot Chicken Biryani

Okay, so you're about to make this killer one pot chicken biryani . This ain't your average weeknight meal, is it? Honestly, it's easier than you think.

A few things I've learned along the way will seriously level up your easy chicken biryani .

Serving Like a Pro

Presentation matters, right? This biryani with chicken thighs looks amazing in a big serving dish. Garnish with extra cilantro and some crispy fried onions.

A dollop of cool raita (yogurt dip) adds a refreshing contrast. Trust me, it's the perfect complement. For drinks, try a light beer or iced tea.

The subtle flavors won't overpower the spices in your indian one pot meals . This is a great dum biryani shortcut !

Storing Leftovers (If There Are Any!)

Let's be real, leftovers are the best. Cool the one pot chicken and rice completely before storing. Pack it in an airtight container.

It'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it. Portion it out before freezing.

Thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or in a pan with a little water. The water helps prevent it from drying out.

Tweak It Your Way

One of the best things about this chicken biryani recipe is how adaptable it is! Going veggie? Swap the chicken for paneer (Indian cheese) or extra veggies.

For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder. Want it even richer? Use full fat coconut milk instead of some of the broth.

The broth makes this a weeknight biryani dream.

Nutrition Quick Look

So, what’s the deal with the good stuff? This simplified biryani recipe is packed with flavor. It’s also a good source of protein from the chicken.

The rice gives you energy. And the spices? They're full of antioxidants. Win-win! It provides a healthy balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Remember to adjust your portion sizes according to your needs.

I know, I know... cooking can be intimidating. But seriously, give this pressure cooker chicken biryani a go. You'll be surprised at how easy and rewarding it is.

Get in that kitchen, experiment, and own it. You got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really make chicken biryani in just one pot? Seems a bit like wishful thinking!

Absolutely! This recipe is all about simplifying things. By cooking everything together in one pot, you save on cleanup without compromising on the authentic flavors of chicken biryani. It's not a pipe dream it's clever cooking, innit?

My rice always ends up mushy. What's the secret to perfectly cooked rice in this one pot chicken biryani recipe?

Rinsing the basmati rice thoroughly until the water runs clear is absolutely crucial! This removes excess starch and prevents stickiness. Also, resist the temptation to peek while it simmers trust the process, and you'll be rewarded with fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, Bob's your uncle!

What if I want to spice things up a bit? Can I make this one-pot chicken biryani hotter?

You bet! Feel free to add more green chilies (slit them to release the heat), increase the amount of red chili powder, or even throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper. Taste as you go and adjust according to your spice tolerance.

Remember, a little goes a long way, so start small and work your way up to "dragon breath" levels, if that's your thing!

I'm a vegetarian. Can I adapt this one pot chicken biryani recipe?

Definitely! Swap the chicken for your favorite veggies like potatoes, carrots, peas, cauliflower, or even paneer (Indian cheese). Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it entirely vegetarian. It's all about customising to your taste, darling!

How long does leftover one pot chicken biryani last, and what's the best way to store it?

Leftover biryani will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, you can microwave it (add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out), or gently warm it in a pan on the stovetop. Just make sure it's piping hot before serving, mind.

Is one pot chicken biryani healthy?

One-pot chicken biryani can be part of a balanced diet! It provides a good source of protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the rice. To make it even healthier, consider using brown basmati rice, adding more vegetables, and using a leaner cut of chicken. Portion control is key, as with any delicious dish!