American-Style BBQ Chicken Biryani Fusion

c
@chefspalette

This recipe marries the smoky, tangy flavors of American BBQ with the aromatic spices of traditional biryani, creating a unique and flavorful dish that's perfect for adventurous eaters. The addition of familiar ingredients like BBQ sauce, sweet corn, and crispy onions adds a creative twist to this beloved classic.

American-Style BBQ Chicken Biryani Fusion recipe
Prep Time
1hr 30min
Cook Time
1hr 0min
Total Time
2hr 30min

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = 1 plate)

For the Chicken Marinade

  • boneless chicken thighs
    boneless chicken thighs
    1lb
  • BBQ sauce
    BBQ sauce
    1/2cup
  • Greek yogurt
    Greek yogurt
    2tbsp
  • lemon juice
    lemon juice
    1tbsp
  • garlic powder
    garlic powder
    1tsp
  • smoked paprika
    smoked paprika
    1tsp
  • cayenne pepper
    cayenne pepper
    1/2tsp
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

  • Basmati rice
    Basmati rice
    2cups
  • chicken broth
    chicken broth
    4cups
  • bay leaf
    bay leaf
    1piece
  • whole cloves
    whole cloves
    4piece
  • cardamom pods
    cardamom pods
    4piece
  • cinnamon stick
    cinnamon stick
    1piece
  • turmeric
    turmeric
    1tsp
  • salt
    salt
    1/2tsp

For the Biryani

  • butter or ghee
    butter or ghee
    2tbsp
  • large onion
    large onion
    1piece
  • garlic
    garlic
    2clove
  • ginger
    ginger
    1tbsp
  • diced tomatoes
    diced tomatoes
    1cup
  • mixed bell peppers
    mixed bell peppers
    1/2cup
  • sweet corn
    sweet corn
    1/2cup
  • fresh cilantro
    fresh cilantro
    1/4cup
  • fresh mint leaves
    fresh mint leaves
    1/4cup
  • crispy fried onions
    crispy fried onions
    1/2cup
  • cashews
    cashews
    1/4cup
  • raisins
    raisins
    1/4cup
  • lemon
    lemon
    1piece

For Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro leaves
    Fresh cilantro leaves
  • Sliced green onions
    Sliced green onions
  • Lemon wedges
    Lemon wedges

How to make American-Style BBQ Chicken Biryani Fusion

Marinate the Chicken

  1. Step 1

    In a large bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.

  2. Step 2

    Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade.

  3. Step 3

    Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.

Cook the Rice

  1. Step 1

    In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the bay leaf, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, turmeric, and salt.

  2. Step 2

    Add the soaked rice, reduce the heat, and cook until the rice is about 70% done (about 10 minutes). The rice should still be slightly firm.

  3. Step 3

    Drain any excess water and set the rice aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Step 1

    In a large, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter or ghee over medium heat.

  2. Step 2

    Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Cook the Chicken

  1. Step 1

    Add the marinated chicken to the skillet with the sautéed onions, and cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.

  2. Step 2

    Stir in the diced tomatoes, mixed bell peppers, and sweet corn (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Layer the Biryani

  1. Step 1

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Step 2

    Spread half of the partially cooked rice over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the same skillet or a large oven-safe dish.

  3. Step 3

    Sprinkle half of the chopped cilantro, mint, crispy fried onions, roasted cashews, and raisins (if using) over the rice.

  4. Step 4

    Add the remaining rice, followed by the rest of the cilantro, mint, crispy fried onions, cashews, and raisins.

  5. Step 5

    Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over the top.

Bake the Biryani

  1. Step 1

    Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid, and bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors melded together.

Serve

  1. Step 1

    Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and sliced green onions.

  2. Step 2

    Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

358.3kcal (17.92%)

Protein

23.3g (46.66%)

Carbs

41.7g (15.15%)

Sugars

6.7g (13.34%)

Healthy Fat

6.8g

Unhealthy Fat

5.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.

  2. Ensure the rice is only 70% cooked before layering to avoid mushy biryani.

  3. You can use store-bought crispy fried onions to save time.

FAQS

  1. How do I store leftover American-Style BBQ Chicken Biryani Fusion?

    To store leftover American-Style BBQ Chicken Biryani Fusion, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

  2. What are some good substitutions for ingredients in BBQ Chicken Biryani?

    If you're looking for substitutions in this BBQ Chicken Biryani recipe, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also swap BBQ sauce with a homemade sauce or a different flavor profile like teriyaki for a unique twist.

  3. Is American-Style BBQ Chicken Biryani suitable for gluten-free diets?

    Yes, American-Style BBQ Chicken Biryani can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the BBQ sauce used is gluten-free. Additionally, all other ingredients in the recipe, including the spices and rice, are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels to confirm that no gluten-containing ingredients are included.

  4. What can I serve with BBQ Chicken Biryani for a complete meal?

    To complement your American-Style BBQ Chicken Biryani, consider serving it with a side of cooling cucumber raita or a fresh salad to balance the flavors. You can also add some naan or pita bread for a hearty meal. Lemon wedges on the side enhance the dish's flavor and freshness.

  5. How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor in BBQ Chicken Biryani?

    For the best flavor in your American-Style BBQ Chicken Biryani, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight. This allows the spices and BBQ sauce to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.

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c

@chefspalette

Chefspalette is a culinary artist known for her innovative fusion recipes that merge traditional flavors with modern twists. Writing for Chefadora involves exploring diverse cuisines,...

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