Morog Polao is one of the most beloved traditional dishes in Bangladesh, especially popular during family gatherings, festivals, and special occasions. This fragrant rice dish cooked with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and ghee creates a rich and comforting flavor that represents Bangladeshi cuisine at its best.
In this recipe guide, you’ll learn how to make authentic Morog Polao (Chicken Polao) at home with simple steps.
🍗 Ingredients You Will Need
For Chicken Marination:
- Chicken (medium pieces) – 1 kg
- Yogurt – 1 cup
- Ginger paste – 1 tbsp
- Garlic paste – 1 tbsp
- Turmeric powder – 1 tsp
- Chili powder – 1 tsp
- Salt – to taste
- Lemon juice – 1 tbsp
For Polao (Rice):
- Basmati or aromatic rice – 500g
- Onion (sliced) – 2 large
- Cinnamon – 2 sticks
- Cardamom – 4–5 pieces
- Cloves – 4–5 pieces
- Bay leaves – 2
- Ghee or oil – ½ cup
- Sugar – 1 tsp (optional, for aroma)
- Salt – to taste
- Hot water – as needed
🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Method
1. Marinate the Chicken
Mix chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, lemon juice, and salt.
Let it rest for at least 1–2 hours for better flavor.
2. Fry the Onions
Heat oil or ghee in a large pot.
Fry sliced onions until golden brown. Remove half for garnish.
3. Cook the Chicken
Add marinated chicken to the pot.
Cook on medium heat until the chicken becomes tender and oil separates.
4. Prepare the Rice
Wash and soak rice for 20–30 minutes. Drain before cooking.
5. Add Rice & Spices
Add rice into the cooked chicken. Then add:
- Cinnamon
- Cardamom
- Cloves
- Bay leaves
- Salt
- Sugar (optional)
Mix gently to avoid breaking the rice.
6. Add Water & Cook
Add hot water (just enough to cook rice).
Cover and cook on low heat until rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
7. Final Touch
Once done, sprinkle fried onions on top.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Morog Polao is best served with:
- Chicken curry or roast
- Salad (onion, cucumber, lemon)
- Borhani or soft drinks
It is often the star dish at weddings and special events.
🔥 Cooking Tips for Perfect Morog Polao
- Use aged basmati rice for best aroma
- Do not over-stir after adding rice
- Use ghee for authentic flavor
- Cook on low heat for fluffy texture
- Marination time improves taste significantly
🏠 Why This Recipe is Special in Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, Morog Polao is more than just food—it’s a celebration dish. From family gatherings to festive occasions, this dish brings people together with its rich aroma and comforting taste.
Different households may have slight variations, but the core flavor remains the same: aromatic rice, tender chicken, and warm spices.
📌 Serving Experience
A perfectly cooked plate of Morog Polao delivers:
- Soft, fluffy rice
- Juicy, flavorful chicken
- Rich aroma of spices and ghee
- A balanced sweet and savory taste
It’s a complete meal that feels both traditional and luxurious.