Meal Prep · South Indian
Chicken Ghee Rice
Aromatic and flavorful South Indian Chicken Ghee Rice, perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
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Step-by-step- **Marinate Chicken**: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, yogurt, half of the chopped mint and coriander, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- **Prepare Rice**: While chicken marinates, wash Basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain well before cooking.
- **Sauté Aromatics**: Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker over medium heat. Add cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- **Cook Onions**: Add sliced onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- **Add Chicken**: Add the marinated chicken to the pot. Cook on medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken changes color and is lightly seared.
- **Add Rice and Water**: Gently add the drained Basmati rice to the pot. Stir carefully for 1-2 minutes to coat the rice with the spices and ghee. Pour in 4 cups of hot water and add salt to taste.
- **Simmer and Cook**: Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 1 whistle on high flame, then reduce to low and cook for 5-7 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
- **Rest and Garnish**: Once cooked, turn off the heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 10 minutes. Gently fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with remaining fresh mint and coriander leaves, and optional fried cashews and raisins. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Per serving| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
Storage & Freezer Guide
Make it last Refrigerator 3-4 days
Store leftover Chicken Ghee Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Up to 2 months
For longer storage, freeze cooled Chicken Ghee Rice in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing.
Reheat Stovetop/Microwave
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway, or on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water until heated through.
Chef’s Corner
- For best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or even overnight.
- Soaking Basmati rice helps it cook evenly and results in longer, fluffier grains.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder according to your spice preference.
- Adding a pinch of saffron soaked in warm milk with the water can enhance the aroma and color.
- Avoid over-stirring the rice once water is added to prevent breaking the grains.
