chicken - as required (cut into pieces)
chili powder - to taste (extra for spiciness)
coriander powder - to taste
cumin powder - to taste
garam masala powder - to taste
turmeric powder - to taste
ginger garlic paste - to taste
salt - to taste
oil - as required (2-3 teaspoons for marinating, 2 teaspoons for rice)
curd (yogurt) - as required
water - as required (adjust for consistency)
whole spices (bay leaf, black peppercorn, cinnamon sticks, cardamom, cloves) - as required
basmati rice - as required (soaked for 30 minutes)
fried brown onion - as required
mint leaves - as required
coriander leaves - as required
saffron water - as required
ghee (clarified butter) - optional, as required