Air Fryer Chicken Biryani

Today, we are going to show you how to make a simple Air Fryer Chicken Biryani.

Embark on a journey through the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine as we guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering dish using the air fryer. From the fragrant spices to the succulent chicken and fluffy rice, every bite is a symphony of taste and texture that will leave you craving more.

If you love Easy Air Fryer Chicken Recipes, try my recipe for olive garden chicken scampi, air fryer queso chicken tacos, olive garden chicken tortellini alfredo recipe, or air fryer primavera stuffed chicken.

What Is Chicken Biryani?

Chicken Biryani is a popular Indian rice dish characterized by its rich and aromatic flavors.

It typically consists of basmati rice cooked with marinated chicken pieces, fragrant spices, herbs, and often layers of fried onions, boiled eggs, and potatoes.

The dish is known for its vibrant color, thanks to the use of saffron or food coloring, and its complex blend of spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves. Chicken Biryani is often served at special occasions, celebrations, and family gatherings, making it a cherished and beloved dish in Indian cuisine.

Can You Make Chicken Biryani In Air Fryer?

Yes, you can make Chicken Biryani in an air fryer! While the traditional method involves cooking the biryani in a pot or pressure cooker, adapting the recipe for the air fryer allows for a quicker and more convenient cooking process with equally delicious results.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Chicken Biryani

Here are the ingredients to make air-fried chicken biryani:

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Chicken: Tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a flavorful mixture of yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, and a blend of aromatic spices, adding depth and richness to the dish.
• Basmati Rice: Fragrant basmati rice is partially cooked to achieve the perfect texture, ensuring that each grain remains separate and fluffy when combined with the chicken and spices.
• Yogurt: Yogurt serves as the base for the marinade, tenderizing the chicken while adding a subtle tanginess and helping to bind the spices to the meat.
• Ginger-Garlic Paste: A combination of fresh ginger and garlic is ground into a paste, infusing the chicken with a pungent and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the biryani.
• Spices (Turmeric, Chili Powder, Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): A medley of spices including turmeric, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and garam masala adds warmth, depth, and complexity to the chicken marinade, creating the signature flavor profile of biryani.
• Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning the chicken marinade, balancing the flavors and enhancing the taste of the dish.
• Fresh Cilantro and Mint: Fresh cilantro and mint leaves are used as garnishes, adding a pop of color and freshness to the finished biryani, while also imparting a subtle herbal aroma.

How To Make Chicken Biryani Air Fryer

Making Chicken Biryani in the air fryer is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this classic Indian dish. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Preparation: Wash and soak the Basmati rice in water for about 30 minutes. Drain and set aside. Marinate the chicken pieces in yogurt, turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder, biryani masala, and salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or longer if time permits.

Air Fry Chicken Biryani: Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees F (180°C). In a large skillet, or saucepan, heat oil and sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, ginger, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté for a minute. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s about 80% done. Transfer the semi-cooked chicken to the air fryer and cook for about 10 minutes or until fully cooked.

Cook the Rice: While the chicken is in the air fryer, cook the rice with double the amount of water, some salt, and a few drops of oil until it’s about 70% cooked.

Layer the Biryani: In a baking dish that fits in your air fryer, layer half of the rice. Add a layer of the cooked chicken over the rice. Add another layer with the remaining rice. Optionally, pour the saffron milk over the top for color and aroma.

Air Fry the Biryani: Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a suitable air fryer-safe cover. Air fry at 320 degrees F (160°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Garnish and Serve: Let the biryani rest for a few minutes after cooking. Garnish with fresh cilantro, mint, and fried onions if using. Serve hot with raita or your favorite side.

Pro Tips Air Fryer Chicken Biryani

• Marinate the Chicken: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to allow the spices to penetrate the meat.
• Use Basmati Rice: Basmati rice is the preferred choice for biryani due to its long grains and fragrant aroma. Rinse the rice well to remove excess starch before parboiling.
• Parboil the Rice: Parboil the rice until it’s about 70% cooked. This ensures that the rice grains remain firm and separate after cooking in the air fryer.
• Layering: When layering the chicken and rice in the dish, ensure an even distribution of ingredients to promote uniform cooking. Add fried onions, boiled eggs, and potatoes between the layers for extra flavor and texture.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer before adding the dish to ensure even cooking and to achieve a crispy texture on the top layer of the biryani.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked through. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
• Resting Time: Allow the Chicken Biryani to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the biryani is at its best when served.
• Garnish Liberally: Garnish the biryani generously with fresh cilantro and mint leaves just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and elevates the presentation of the dish.

Faqs About Air Frying Chicken Biryani

Can I use bone-in chicken for air frying Chicken Biryani? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces for Chicken Biryani in the air fryer. Just ensure that the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How long does it take to cook Chicken Biryani in the air fryer? Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the specific air fryer model. Generally, Chicken Biryani takes about 25-30 minutes to cook in the air fryer at a moderate temperature.

Can I use frozen chicken for air frying Chicken Biryani? It’s not recommended to use frozen chicken for Chicken Biryani in the air fryer. Thaw the chicken completely before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and avoid food safety issues.

How do I prevent the rice from drying out in the air fryer? To prevent the rice from drying out, ensure that the rice is partially cooked (parboiled) before layering it with the chicken in the air fryer. Additionally, you can add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to the dish before cooking to keep the rice moist.

Can I customize the spices and ingredients in Chicken Biryani for air frying? Yes, feel free to customize the spices and ingredients in Chicken Biryani according to your taste preferences. You can adjust the level of spice, add additional vegetables, or incorporate different types of meat or protein to create your own unique version of Chicken Biryani.

How do I know when Chicken Biryani is done cooking in the air fryer? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it’s cooked through. Additionally, the rice should be fully cooked and fluffy, and the dish should be hot and aromatic.

Can I reheat leftover Chicken Biryani in the air fryer? Yes, you can reheat leftover Chicken Biryani in the air fryer. Simply place the leftovers in the air fryer basket and cook at a moderate temperature for a few minutes until heated through. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s hot and safe to eat.

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