2. Paleo Indian Chicken Biryani with Coconut-infused Basmati Rice and Mint-Coriander Sauce Paleo Indian Chicken Biryani with Coconut-infused Basmati Rice and Mint-Coriander Sauce

Allergens

Contains no common allergens unless specified.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite
• sized pieces 2 cups Basmati rice 1 can (14 oz) full
• fat coconut milk 3 cups chicken broth 1 large onion, thinly sliced 2 medium tomatoes, chopped 2 tbsp ghee or coconut oil 2 tbsp garam masala 1 tbsp ground cumin 1 tbsp ground coriander 1 tsp turmeric 1 tsp sea salt 1/2 tsp black pepper Fresh mint leaves and chopped cilantro for garnish 1 cup mint leaves, packed 1 cup fresh coriander (cilantro), packed 3 cloves garlic 1 small piece ginger root 2 green chilies, seeds removed (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse the Basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 12 minutes or until the rice is cooked through but still has a slight bite. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or pot, heat ghee or coconut oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Once the onions are caramelized, add the chicken pieces and cook until they're browned on all sides.
3. Stir in the garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2 3 minutes, allowing the spices to meld with the chicken. Add chopped tomatoes and cook for another 2 3 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the Mint Coriander Sauce by blending together mint leaves, cilantro, garlic, ginger root, and green chilies (if using) in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
5. Gently fold the cooked rice into the chicken mixture, making sure not to mash or break up the grains. Add half of the Mint Coriander Sauce and stir gently. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and garnish with remaining sauce, fresh mint leaves, and chopped cilantro.

Chef’s Insight

To achieve the perfect fluffy Basmati rice, resist the temptation to stir or break up the grains after adding the liquid ingredients. The steam helps separate the grains as they cook.

Notes

Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for the best creaminess and flavor in this dish.