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Authentic Ambur Chicken Biryani served in a traditional copper handi with tender chicken pieces, aromatic seeraga samba rice, fried onions, fresh coriander, mint leaves, raita, and curry,
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Ambur Chicken Biryani Recipe | Authentic Ambur Biryani | Traditional Tamil Nadu Ambur Dum Chicken Biryani

This Authentic Ambur Chicken Biryani Recipe showcases the legendary flavours of Tamil Nadu’s famous Ambur Biryani. Made with seeraga samba rice, succulent chicken, dried red chillies, yogurt, and fragrant spices, this traditional Ambur Chicken Biryani delivers restaurant-style results with simple home-cooking techniques.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian, Tamilnadu
Keyword Ambur Biryani Recipe, Ambur Chicken Biryani Recipe, Ambur Star Biryani Style Recipe, Authentic Ambur Biryani, Authentic Tamil Biryani S, Chicken Biryani Recipe, Seeraga Samba Rice Biryani, South Indian Chicken Biryani, Tamil Nadu Biryani, Traditional Ambur Chicken Biryani
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Marination Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings 6 People
Calories 575kcal
Author Madhu Savara
Cost NA

Equipment

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Ingredients

  • Ambur Chicken Biryani Recipe Authentic Ambur Biryani, Ambur Biryani Recipe, Tamil Nadu Biryani, Traditional Ambur Chicken Biryani, Seeraga Samba Rice Biryani, South Indian Chicken Biryani, Ambur Star Biryani Style Recipe, Chicken Biryani Recipe, Authentic Tamil Biryani
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Instructions

  • Step 1: Prepare the Chilli Paste
  • Soak dried red chillies in warm water for 20 minutes.
  • Blend with ginger and garlic into a smooth paste.
  • Set aside.
  • Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
  • Combine:
  • Chicken
  • Yogurt
  • Salt
  • Turmeric
  • Mix thoroughly.
  • Rest for one hour.
  • Step 3: Prepare the Rice
  • Wash seeraga samba rice thoroughly.
  • Soak for 20 minutes.
  • Drain completely.
  • Step 4: Cook the Masala
  • Heat oil and ghee.
  • Add:
  • Cardamom
  • Cloves
  • Cinnamon
  • Bay leaves
  • Star anise
  • Sauté until aromatic.
  • Add sliced onions.
  • Cook until golden.
  • Add chilli paste.
  • Cook for 5 minutes.
  • Add tomatoes.
  • Cook until softened.
  • Add mint and coriander.
  • Step 5: Cook the Chicken
  • Add marinated chicken.
  • Cook on medium heat until chicken releases moisture.
  • Continue cooking for 15–20 minutes.
  • Step 6: Add Rice
  • Add soaked rice.
  • Mix gently.
  • Pour measured hot water.
  • Adjust salt.
  • Bring to a boil.
  • Step 7: Dum Cooking
  • Cover tightly.
  • Cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes.
  • Allow resting for 10 minutes before opening.
  • Step 8: Serve
  • Fluff gently.
  • Serve hot with:
  • Brinjal curry
  • Onion raita
  • Boiled eggs
  • Lemon wedges

Notes

Rice Selection

Always use authentic seeraga samba rice.

Chilli Balance

Use dried red chillies for authentic flavour rather than excessive chilli powder.

Moisture Control

Avoid adding too much water.

Cooking Method

Cook on low heat to preserve rice texture.

Variations

Mutton Ambur Biryani

Replace chicken with goat meat.

Ambur Egg Biryani

Use boiled eggs instead of chicken.

Extra Spicy Version

Increase dried red chilli quantity.

Festival Style Biryani

Add fried onions and extra ghee.

Things to Avoid

  • Using basmati rice for authentic Ambur style.
  • Overcooking rice.
  • Excessive garam masala.
  • Skipping marination.
  • High heat cooking.
  • Too much water.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating

Steam gently with a few drops of water.
Avoid repeated reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Ambur Biryani famous?

Its unique use of seeraga samba rice and red chilli paste creates a flavour profile unlike any other biryani in India.

What rice is used in Ambur Biryani?

Traditional Ambur Biryani uses seeraga samba rice.

Is Ambur Biryani spicy?

It is moderately spicy and relies on dried red chillies for depth rather than excessive heat.

What is the difference between Ambur and Hyderabadi Biryani?

Ambur Biryani uses seeraga samba rice and cooked chicken masala, while Hyderabadi Biryani traditionally uses basmati rice and dum-cooked raw marinated meat.

Can I make it with basmati rice?

Yes, but it will not be considered authentic Ambur Biryani.

Why is seeraga samba rice preferred?

Its small grains absorb flavours exceptionally well and provide the traditional texture associated with Ambur Biryani.

Can I prepare Ambur Biryani ahead of time?

Yes. It remains delicious when reheated properly.

What side dish pairs best?

Traditional brinjal curry and onion raita are classic accompaniments.