How many calories are in 250 gm of biryani? A complete guide

October 17, 2025 •

4 min read

The calorie count for a 250g serving of biryani can vary significantly, ranging from approximately 250 kcal for a vegetable version to over 450 kcal for a richer, meat-based recipe. This variation depends heavily on the main ingredients, fat content, and cooking style, offering flexibility for those monitoring their intake, who want to understand how many calories are in 250 gm of biryani.

Quick Summary

A 250g portion of biryani contains a variable amount of calories, depending on ingredients like protein type, fat usage, and cooking method. The energy content differs between vegetable, chicken, and mutton biryani, with homemade versions generally being lower in calories than restaurant ones.

Key Points

Variable Calorie Count: The number of calories in 250 gm of biryani is not fixed and depends on the specific ingredients used, ranging from approximately 250 to over 450 kcal.
Type Matters: Vegetable biryani is the lowest in calories, while chicken and especially mutton biryani have higher calorie counts due to greater fat and protein content.
Fat is Key: The amount and type of fat (oil, ghee) used significantly impacts the final calorie total; restaurant versions often use more fat than homemade ones.
Portion Control: Consciously managing the portion size to a standard 250g is crucial for calorie control, as many commercial servings are larger.
Healthy Modifications: Reducing oil, using lean protein, and adding more vegetables are effective ways to lower the calorie content of biryani.
Nutrient-Dense Meal: Despite its energy density, biryani can be a balanced meal, providing protein, carbs, and anti-inflammatory spices when prepared with moderation.

The Calorie Range for 250g Biryani

The total number of calories in a 250g serving of biryani is not a single, fixed number. It is a broad range influenced by several factors. The type of biryani is the most significant factor, with different primary ingredients leading to distinct nutritional profiles. A vegetable biryani, for instance, will have a different calorie count compared to a chicken or mutton version due to the inherent differences in the protein and fat content.

Calorie Breakdown by Biryani Type (250g Serving)

Based on nutritional data, a 250g portion offers a specific caloric value depending on its preparation. Here is a general breakdown:

Vegetable Biryani: A 250g serving typically falls in the range of 250 to 300 kcal. This is because the vegetable-based recipe generally contains less fat and fewer calorie-dense ingredients compared to meat versions. However, the use of paneer or a high amount of cooking oil can push this number higher.
Chicken Biryani: For a 250g portion, the calorie count is often between 350 and 450 kcal. A commercially prepared frozen chicken biryani might be at the lower end (~321 kcal), while a homemade version with a moderate amount of ghee and skinless chicken is a good estimate.
Mutton Biryani: This is one of the more calorie-dense options. A 250g serving of mutton biryani can contain approximately 330 to 400 kcal. Mutton has a higher fat content than lean chicken, and traditional recipes often use more ghee, increasing the overall caloric value.

Macronutrient Comparison (Approx. per 250g)


Biryani Type	Calories (kcal)	Protein (g)	Carbohydrates (g)	Fat (g)
Vegetable Biryani	250-300	5-8	45-55	8-12
Chicken Biryani	350-450	15-20	40-50	10-15
Mutton Biryani	330-400	17-22	45-55	10-16

Factors Influencing Biryani Calories

The recipe and preparation method have a profound effect on the final calorie count. Knowing these variables allows for better control over your dietary intake.

The Role of Cooking Method and Ingredients

Type of Oil or Ghee: The amount of oil or ghee used for frying onions and assembling the biryani is a major contributor to fat and calorie content. Restaurant versions often use generous amounts, which significantly elevates the calorie count compared to a homemade version where the quantity can be controlled.
Protein Source: The choice of meat makes a difference. Using lean, skinless chicken breast will result in fewer calories than bone-in chicken or mutton, which naturally contains more fat. Plant-based versions with legumes, paneer, or soya chunks also have varying calorie profiles.
Added Extras: Ingredients like fried onions (birista), nuts, and cream-based marinades can add a substantial number of extra calories. For example, a single cup of fried onions can contribute over 100 calories.
The Rice-to-Protein Ratio: A biryani with a higher proportion of rice and less protein will have a different macronutrient balance. A protein-rich version, with a more balanced ratio, can be more satiating and better for weight management.

Tips for Reducing Calories in Biryani

If you enjoy biryani but want to make it a lighter meal, here are several practical strategies:

Use Lean Proteins: Opt for lean, skinless chicken breast or fish instead of mutton or bone-in cuts. For vegetarian options, use a moderate amount of paneer and add more vegetables and legumes.
Control the Fat: Reduce the amount of oil or ghee used during the cooking process. Sauté onions in a minimal amount of oil or use a non-stick pan to cut down on fat. Consider an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep-fried onions.
Increase Vegetables: Bulk up your biryani with more low-calorie vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, peas, and bell peppers. This increases fiber content and volume without adding excessive calories.
Watch the Portion Size: The most direct way to control calories is to be mindful of your serving size. A smaller 250g portion is a sensible approach compared to the oversized restaurant portions often served. Using a kitchen scale can be helpful for accurate measurement.

A Satisfying and Balanced Meal

Despite its reputation as a heavy dish, biryani can be a nutrient-dense and satisfying meal. It provides a good balance of carbohydrates from rice, protein from meat or legumes, and antioxidants from the rich blend of spices. Spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger have well-documented anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion. Consumed in moderation and prepared mindfully, biryani can certainly be part of a healthy diet.

For more nutritional details on a wide range of foods, including biryani, a great resource is Nutritionix. Their database offers extensive information on various food products.

Conclusion

In summary, a 250g portion of biryani typically contains between 250 and 450 calories, with the exact number depending on the specific ingredients and preparation. Vegetable biryani is generally at the lower end of this range, while meat-based versions, particularly mutton biryani, are higher. By making conscious choices about cooking methods, protein sources, and portion sizes, you can enjoy this flavorful dish while maintaining your health goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Biryani can be a high-calorie dish, especially when prepared with large amounts of oil, ghee, and fatty meats. However, with modifications like using lean protein and less oil, it can be part of a balanced diet.

A 250g serving of chicken biryani generally contains between 350 and 450 calories, depending on the cut of chicken and the amount of fat used in cooking.

A 250g serving of vegetable biryani typically contains 250 to 300 calories. This can increase if calorie-dense ingredients like paneer or fried potatoes are added.

To reduce calories, use lean, skinless chicken or more vegetables, cut down on the amount of oil or ghee, and limit high-calorie additions like fried onions and nuts.

Yes, homemade biryani is often lower in calories because you have control over the ingredients and can use less oil, ghee, and other high-fat elements, which are often used generously in restaurants.

Absolutely. A 250g portion is a moderate serving. Larger portions commonly served in restaurants can easily push the calorie count to over 500 kcal per meal.

The macronutrient breakdown of biryani varies, but it generally provides a mix of carbohydrates from rice, protein from meat or legumes, and fat from the oil or ghee used in cooking.