If you’re feeling like your memory is failing and you have trouble remembering things that used to come easily, you’ve come to the right place! We are whipping up a unique twist on a nourishing meal rich in ingredients known to boost brainpower and memory. Even better, it’s a dish so delicious, you’ll be coming back for seconds. If you are ready to supercharge your brain, then let’s dive in!
Introducing my take on the classic biryani recipe. I like to call it non-traditional chicken biryani in the oven. It borrows a few elements from the traditional recipe, but adds some unique twists for a quicker and more nutrient-rich version.
Biryani means mixed rice dish and is popular in India and south-east Asia. It can be prepared in many ways and this Wikipedia entry is here to tell us how amazingly varied biryani recipes are.
While traditional biryani typically features basmati rice, today we are using a blend of brown and wild rice for its brain-boosting benefits. I’ve also streamlined the recipe by using only a few key spices and by skipping steps like caramelizing onions or soaking rice. I also added all the ingredients to an oven-proof dish and baked them instead of cooking them on the stove.
But have no fear! The flavor is still rich and satisfying. I’m no expert in Indian cuisine, but my family (11-year-old daughter, 14-year-old son, my husband, mom and myself) can attest to the unanimous love for this dish.
Have you ever tried making biryani in the oven? I hope you have the chance to make this flavorful and brain-healthy dish!
Your Guide for this Flavourful Chicken Biryani In The Oven
- Benefits For The Brain
- How To Make This Recipe
- Watch The Recipe Video
- Boost The Nutrition Of This Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
My family’s love for biryani runs deep. A few years ago, one of my son’s friends, who has an Indian background, gifted us an entire dish of biryani. We devoured it fast, and to our delight, we received another gift of biryani shortly after. Since then, we keep dreaming about biryani, especially my son, who fondly mentions the dish from time to time.
I hesitated to try making it myself, fearing I might not capture the delicate balance of spices that make biryani so delicious. However, I decided to take the plunge and the results exceeded my expectations. While some might argue that my rendition of the dish deviates from tradition, there’s no denying its amazing flavor—truly a biryani like no other. 😍
Chicken Biryani In The Oven – Benefits For The Brain
Zucchini is packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that protect brain cells and support neurotransmitter function, which in turn boosts memory. Plus, the fiber content in zucchini maintains stable blood sugar levels, promoting better cognition and overall brain health.
Turmeric, one of our key spices in biryani, has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which can support memory. Turmeric may even promote neurogenesis, the growth of new brain cells, helping with learning and memory formation.
Raisins are a powerhouse of antioxidants that protect brain cells and help carry oxygen to the brain, while the fiber keeps blood sugar levels stable, supporting memory and cognitive function.
How To Make This Flavourful Chicken Biryani In The Oven
Step 1
Chop the vegetables (garlic, onion, zucchini, carrots, bell pepper) in small pieces.
Step 2
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3
Combine the chopped vegetables, chicken and rice blend in an oven-proof pot.
Step 4
Measure the chicken broth in a measuring container, mix the spices with it, then pour the seasoned broth over the ingredients in the pot and stir to combine.
Step 5
Place the pot in the cold oven.
Set the oven to 350 F and bake for 60 minutes.
Step 6
After 60 minutes stir the mixture and continue baking for an additional 15-30 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
Step 7
Once done, remove the pot from the oven and let it rest, covered, for about 10 minutes to allow any remaining liquid to be absorbed.
Taste the biryani and add more chili flakes if needed.
Storing, freezing and reheating tips
Store
Biryani can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freeze
Personally, I choose not to freeze biryani as I find the texture of the rice changes. However, if you choose to freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers, allow it to cool completely before dividing it into smaller portions. Label the container with the dish’s name and the date of freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight
Reheat
To reheat, simply warm in the oven or on the stove with a splash of broth.
Watch how to make it step-by-step!
How To Boost The Nutrition Of The Chicken Biryani
Green peas, mushrooms, cauliflower, potatoes or broccoli can be added for more color, nutrition and flavour.
Boost Your Memory: Flavourful Chicken Biryani In The Oven
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 90 mins
- Total Time: 110 mins
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Category: Chicken recipes, rice meals, biryani
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
One of the best things about this biryani is how fast it’s prepped and that it’s baked in the oven, so we only need one pot and minimal stirring. I just love finding ways to make flavorful, nutritious meals with minimal effort in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 6 big garlic cloves, sliced
- 1 big onion, diced small
- 2 cups zucchini, diced small
- 1 cup carrots, diced small
- 1 red bell pepper, diced small
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup brown and wild rice blend (see notes)
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, chopped small
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (see notes)
Serve with cashews, raisins, naan bread, carrot salad, mango chutney, yogurt. Sprinkle with cilantro.
Instructions
-
Chop the vegetables (garlic, onion, zucchini, carrots, bell pepper) in small pieces.
-
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
-
Combine the chopped vegetables, chicken and rice blend in an oven-proof pot.
-
Measure the chicken broth in a measuring container, mix the spices with it, then pour the seasoned broth over the ingredients in the pot and stir to combine.
-
Place the pot in the cold oven.
-
Set the oven to 350 F and bake for 60 minutes.
-
After 60 minutes stir the mixture and continue baking for an additional 15-30 minutes until the rice is fully cooked.
-
Once done, remove the pot from the oven and let it rest, covered, for about 10 minutes to allow any remaining liquid to be absorbed.
-
Taste the biryani and add more chili flakes if needed.
-
Serve warm or hot.
Enjoy!
Notes
If you don’t have a brown and wild rice blend, you can use only brown rice as an alternative.
I use an inexpensive frother to mix the spices in the broth. However, any frother, including a whisk, will work just as well.
Frequently Asked Questions For Flavourful Chicken Baked Biryani
What substitutions can I make for this chicken biryani in the oven?
You can use ghee instead of avocado oil.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How can I make this biryani in the oven vegan?
Use chickpeas and tofu instead of chicken breast. If you have a bit of time, you can marinate them for at least 1 hour in a vegeterian spiced broth (aka broth with spices).
How do I serve biryani?
You can serve it with cashews, raisins, naan bread, carrot salad, mango chutney, yogurt. And don’t forget to sprinkle it with cilantro.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes you can. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and the chicken breast with 1 can of chickpeas and 1 lb extra-firm tofu cubed.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes it is.
Is this biryani in the oven dairy free?
Yes it is.
What To Cook Next
If you loved this biryani, then you won’t want to miss out on this recipe: a flavourful tofu chickpea curry, bursting with aromatic spices, creamy coconut and vibrant spinach in every.single.bite.
