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quinoa chicken biryani by foodfitnessandfamily.com

Quinoa Chicken Biryani recipe :

Explore this healthy quinoa biryani recipe with chicken, perfect for those seeking delicious and nutritious meal options.
A healthy and flavorful take on the classic biryani, using protein-packed quinoa instead of rice.
This Quinoa Chicken Biryani is a high-protein, gluten-free meal that is perfect for a healthy lunch! 😊
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 pound 450g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion finely sliced
  • 1 medium tomato chopped
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 cloves
  • 2 cardamom pods
  • 1 small cinnamon stick
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon coriander powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin powder
  • Salt to taste
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro
  • ¼ cup chopped mint
  • ½ lemon juiced
  • ½ cup water for cooking chicken
  • Fried onions optional, for garnish

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Quinoa

  • Rinse 1 cup quinoa under cold water for a minute to remove bitterness.
  • In a pot, bring 2 cups water to a boil, add the rinsed quinoa, cover, and let it cook for 12-15 minutes until the water is absorbed.
  • Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

  • Heat 2 tablespoons oil or ghee in a pan.
  • Add cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
  • Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown.
  • Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric, chili powder, cumin, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until tomatoes soften.
  • Add chicken pieces, coat well with the masala, and cook for 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in yogurt, mix well, and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the oil separates.

Step 3: Assemble & Cook Biryani

  • Add cooked quinoa to the chicken mixture and gently mix.
  • Sprinkle garam masala, chopped mint, and cilantro on top.
  • Drizzle lemon juice and ½ cup water, then cover and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

  • Remove from heat, let it rest for a few minutes.
  • Garnish with fried onions (optional) and serve hot with raita or a side salad

About Quinoa Chicken Biryani Recipe :

  • Quinoa Chicken Biryani is a healthy twist on the classic biryani, replacing rice with protein-rich quinoa while keeping the authentic Indian flavors intact. This dish is packed with aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy quinoa, making it a nutritious and delicious meal. Garnished with fresh herbs and crispy fried onions, it pairs perfectly with yogurt raita and a squeeze of lemon. Whether you're looking for a wholesome lunch or a balanced dinner, this gluten-free, high-protein biryani is a perfect choice! 😊