Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup (240g) plain yogurt (full-fat recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1-2 green chilies, slit (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garam masala
  • 1 cup (200g) basmati rice, rinsed thoroughly
  • 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth or water
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh cilantro (coriander)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) chopped fresh mint
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional Garnish: Fried onions, extra cilantro, and lemon wedges

Instructions:

  1. Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl with chicken. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
  2. Heat oil or ghee in the pot over medium heat. Add sliced onion and sauté until golden brown and softened. Add green pepper and chilies (if using), and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add cumin seeds, coriander powder, and garam masala to the pot. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn them!).
  4. Add the marinated chicken to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
  5. Add the rinsed basmati rice and chicken broth (or water) to the pot. Stir to combine. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. DO NOT LIFT THE LID during this time.
  7. Remove the pot from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
  8. Stir in the chopped cilantro and mint. Garnish with fried onions, extra cilantro, and lemon wedges, if desired. Serve immediately.