Murgh Tikka Biryani is indeed a delicious combination of flavorful chicken tikka and aromatic basmati rice, that is just the perfect meal for you and your loved ones. The smoky flavors of grilled chicken tikka are complemented by the rich textured layers of biryani. Let's look at its recipe, ingredients, and everything that makes this particular biryani the best to try.
What is Murgh Tikka Biryani?
Murgh Tikka Biryani is a hybrid dish, blending the succulent juiciness of murgh tikka (grilled chicken)with the layering method of biryani. "Murgh" means chicken in Hindi, and "tikka" refers to marinated meat that has been grilled. Put together, it's a rich, aromatic, and full-of-flavor biryani.
What's Special About Murgh Tikka Biryani?
- Smoky Flavor:
The use of grilled chicken gives a smokiness different from any regular biryani.
- Spiced Marinade:
It is marinated with yogurt, spices, and herbs, which gives it an extra boost of flavor.
- Perfect Blend:
The flavors of tikka are well-balanced by the subtle richness of biryani.
Murgh Tikka Biryani Ingredients
For Chicken Tikka:
- 500g chicken (preferably boneless thighs or breast)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp mustard oil or regular oil
For Biryani:
- 2 cups basmati rice (soaked for 30 minutes)
- 2 large onions (sliced)
- 2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp biryani masala
- Whole spices: cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, bay leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves
- A few saffron strands soaked in warm milk
- 3 tbsp ghee or clarified butter
- Salt to taste
How to Make Murgh Biryani Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
1. Mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.
2. Coat the chicken pieces with the marinade. Let it rest for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).
Step 2: Grill the Chicken Tikka
1. Preheat your oven or grill. Skewer the marinated chicken pieces and grill until they are charred on the edges but tender inside. You can also pan-fry them if needed.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
1. Boil water with whole spices and salt.
2. Add the soaked rice and cook until it's 70% done. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Biryani Base
1. Heat ghee in a large pot. Add sliced onions and fry until golden brown.
2. Add tomatoes, yogurt, and biryani masala. Cook until the oil separates.
3. Add the grilled chicken tikka and mix gently to coat the chicken with the masala.
Step 5: Layer the Biryani
1. In the same pot, layer half the cooked rice over the chicken tikka mixture.
2. Sprinkle mint leaves, coriander leaves, and a drizzle of saffron milk.
3. Add the remaining rice and repeat the garnishing.
Step 6: Dum Cooking
1. Close the pot with a lid and cook on low flame for 20-25 minutes to let the flavors soak completely.
Step 7: Serve
Open the biryani gently. Serve murgh biryani recipe with raita, salad, or any of your favorite chutneys.
Nutritional Breakdown Of Chicken Murgh Tikka (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Quantity |
Calories | 400-450 kcal |
Protein | 20-25g |
Carbohydrates | 50-60g |
Fats | 10-15g |
Fiber | 2-3g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary with portion size and preparation method.
Why Should You Try Murgh Tikka Biryani?
1. Rich Taste:
Smoky chicken tikka makes the biryani taste even better.
2. Aromatic Layers:
The layering of saffron, whole spices, and herbs makes it a sensory treat.
3. Complete Meal:
Packed with proteins, carbs, and healthy fats, it's a balanced dish.
FAQ’s
1. What is the meaning of Murgh Tikka?
Murgh Tikka is a term referring to chicken pieces marinated with spices and yogurt, then grilled to perfection.
2. Is Murgh Tikka Biryani spicy?
Murgh tikka masala recipe can be made so. It traditionally has a balanced spice level but can be prepared spicier according to choice.
3. Can I make Murgh Tikka Biryani without a grill?
Yes, pan-frying or baking the marinated chicken works as a great alternative.
4. What is the Meaning of Murgh Tikka?
"Murgh" is the Hindi and Urdu word for chicken, and "tikka" refers to small pieces or chunks. Chicken Murgh tikka is a dish made by marinating chicken pieces in yogurt, spices, and lemon juice, then grilling or roasting them. This preparation results in juicy, flavorful chicken bites often served with chutney or as a topping in dishes like murgh tikka biryani.
5.Is Murgh Tikka Masala Butter Chicken?
No, murgh tikka masala and butter chicken are not the same, though they share some similarities.
Murgh Tikka Masala is prepared by cooking grilled chicken tikka pieces in a spicy, tomato-based gravy. The focus is on strong spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala.
Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) is a milder dish where chicken is cooked in a creamy tomato-based puree or sauce with butter and cream, giving it a rich and slightly sweet taste.
While both dishes use similar ingredients like tomatoes and spices, butter chicken is more indulgent, sweet and less spicy than murgh tikka masala.
Table: Key Differences Between Butter Chicken and Murgh Tikka Biryani
Feature | Butter Chicken | Murgh Tikka Biryani |
Base | Creamy tomato gravy | Aromatic rice layers |
Cooking Method | Simmered in a gravy | Layering and steaming style of dum |
Flavor Profile | Mild, creamy, and rich | Smoky, spiced, and aromatic |
Protein Preparation | Marinated and grilled (optional) | Grilled and layered in biryani |
Murgh Tikka Biryani Variations
Murgh Afghani Tikka Biryani:
Utilizes cream and white pepper for a more subdued taste.
Spicy Tandoori Tikka Biryani:
Adds additional red chili and garam masala for spice enthusiasts.
Murgh Tikka Biryani In Slow Cooker:
Ideal for hands-free cooking with the same rich flavors.
Where to Find the Best Murgh Tikka Biryani?
Several places serve this delightful dish. Charcoal Eats stands out for its authentic flavors and modern twist. Ordering online in Mumbai, Pune & Delhi, their Murgh Tikka Biryani promises a memorable experience.
Final Say
Murgh tikka masala recipe is a true combination of smokiness, spice, and aromatic rice-a favorite among biryani lovers. This biryani is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Try making it with the recipe above or order from your nearest Charcoal Eats place in Mumbai for a flavorful treat.
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