Lucknowi (Awadhi) Biryani Recipe: A Royal Treat from the Heart of India

Lucknowi (Awadhi) Biryani Recipe

If you're a fan of aromatic rice dishes, this Lucknowi Biryani (also known as Awadhi Biryani) will capture your senses with its subtle spice and regal aroma. Made with tender chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and rich whole spices, this dish is an experience in every bite. Unlike its fiery Hyderabadi cousin, the Lucknowi version is more refined, layered, and gently spiced—a perfect introduction to royal Indian cuisine.

History of Lucknowi Biryani

Originating from the royal kitchens of the Nawabs of Awadh (present-day Lucknow), this biryani traces its roots back to the Mughal era. It was developed as a dish that symbolized opulence and precision, where each grain of rice and each spice had a place and a purpose. Unlike many other biryanis, Lucknowi Biryani is cooked using the dum pukht method—a slow cooking technique that seals in all the flavors.

What is Lucknowi Biryani?

Lucknowi Biryani is a delicately spiced layered rice dish made with marinated chicken, half-cooked basmati rice, and fragrant whole spices, all brought together under slow cooking. It is known for its rich yet subtle flavor, unlike other spicy versions. This dish is a true blend of flavored rice and juicy chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Balanced Flavor – Not overly spicy, making it suitable for all age groups.
• Restaurant-style at Home – Taste authentic Lucknowi Biryani without stepping out.
• Aromatic & Elegant – Thanks to saffron, kewra, and whole spices.
• Meal for Special Occasions – Impress your guests with a royal dish.

My Personal Experience

As someone who has tried several biryani styles, Lucknowi Biryani won me over with its elegance. The first time I made it at home, I was amazed at how each layer brought out its own flavor. Now it’s a staple at every special family gathering!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Tawa (griddle) for dum cooking
• Fine sieve or strainer
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife and chopping board

Preparation Time

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Marination time: 1 hour
• Cooking time: 45 minutes
• Total time: ~1 hour 30 minutes

Taste and Texture

Expect a rich, fragrant, and mildly spiced rice dish with succulent chicken and perfectly cooked basmati grains. Every bite offers a hint of saffron, earthy spices, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

For the Rice

• 2 cups basmati rice, soaked for 30 minutes
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves (tej patta)
• 6 green cardamoms (elaichi)
• 2-inch cinnamon stick (dalchini)
• 6 cloves (laung)
• 1/2 lemon juice
• 2 tsp clarified butter (ghee)
• 2 tsp salt

For the Chicken Marinade

• 500g chicken (bone-in)
• 1 cup yogurt (dahi)
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tbsp yellow chili powder (optional)
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 4 green cardamoms
• 5 cloves
• Salt to taste
• For Cooking Chicken
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup ghee or oil

For Layering and Dum Cooking

• A pinch of saffron soaked in 2 tbsp warm milk
• 2 tbsp kewra water (screw pine essence)
• 1/4 cup ghee
• Fried onions and mint leaves for garnish

How to Make Lucknowi Biryani

Step 1: Parboil the Rice

• Boil water in a large pot. Add bay leaves, cardamoms, cinnamon, cloves, lemon juice, ghee, and salt.
• Add soaked rice and cook till 70% done. Strain and set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• In a bowl, mix chicken with yogurt, spices, ginger-garlic paste, and salt.
• Let it marinate for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Heat ghee/oil in a pan. Fry onions until golden brown.
• Add marinated chicken and cook until tender and oil separates.

Step 4: Layer the Biryani

• In a heavy-bottomed pot, layer half the rice.
• Add the chicken mixture over it.
• Add the remaining rice on top.
• Drizzle with saffron milk, kewra water, and ghee.

Step 5: Dum Cooking

• Seal the pot with a tight-fitting lid or foil.
• Place on a tawa and cook on low heat for 25 minutes.
• Let rest for 10 minutes before opening.

Tips for the Perfect Lucknowi Biryani

• Use aged basmati rice for long, fluffy grains.
• Marinate chicken well to lock in flavor.
• Use full-fat yogurt for a richer taste.
• Don’t skip the dum process—it enhances aroma and flavor.

Optional Suggestions

• Add a few strands of rose petals for a royal aroma.
• For more richness, add a spoon of cream to the chicken marinade.
• Swap chicken with mutton for a deeper, gamier flavor.

Serving Ideas: What to Serve with Lucknowi Biryani

• Boondi raita or cucumber yogurt salad
• Mirchi ka Salan (Gravy) or spicy egg curry
• Papad and green chutney
• Fresh lime wedges and onion rings

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat using a covered pan with a splash of water on low heat to maintain moisture.

Variations You Can Try

• Vegetarian Lucknowi Biryani: Replace chicken with paneer, mushrooms, or vegetables.
• Mutton Awadhi Biryani: Use slow-cooked lamb or goat meat for authentic Nawabi richness.
• Instant Pot Lucknowi Biryani: Make it easier by using an Instant Pot for layering and pressure cooking.

Final Thoughts

Lucknowi Chicken Biryani is more than a dish—it’s a tradition, a symbol of hospitality, and a celebration of flavors. Its subtlety, aroma, and regal presentation make it a must-try for anyone who appreciates authentic Indian cuisine. Whether you're cooking for a festival or a casual dinner, this recipe will impress.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use boneless chicken?

A: Yes, but bone-in chicken gives more flavor to the dish.

Q2: What’s the difference between Awadhi and Hyderabadi Biryani?

A: Awadhi is milder, uses parboiled rice, and focuses on delicate flavors. Hyderabadi is spicier and more robust.

Q3: Can I prepare this biryani ahead of time?

A: Yes! Prepare and layer it ahead; do the final dum cooking just before serving.

Nutrition Chart (Per Serving – approx. 6 servings)

• Calories 450 kcal
• Total Fat 18 g
• Saturated Fat 7 g
• Cholesterol 70 mg
• Sodium 400 mg
• Carbohydrates 50 g
• Protein 20 g
• Sugar 4 g
• Fiber 3 g

Note: Values may vary slightly based on ingredients used.