Authentic Chicken Bhuna at Home: A Bold & Aromatic Dish

Craving a rich, flavorful chicken dish that’s both simple and satisfying? This Chicken Bhuna recipe is just what you need! Originating from South Asia, Chicken Bhuna is all about frying aromatic spices and tender chicken in a thick, luscious sauce. Unlike traditional curries, it’s cooked over high heat to create an intense, rich flavor that clings to every piece of chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal with friends, this one-pan dish is sure to impress with its vibrant taste and simplicity. Let’s dive into making this delicious classic!

Learn how to make a delicious and authentic Chicken Bhuna with this easy recipe. Rich in flavor, it’s the perfect one-pan meal for a quick and satisfying dinner

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken with half a teaspoon of salt, turmeric, and chili powder. Set it aside for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Step 2: Cook the Onions and Spices

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
Add the finely sliced onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Step 3: Bhuna (Frying the Chicken)

Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, cooking over high heat. Stir frequently to ensure the chicken browns evenly and the spices coat the meat. This is the “bhuna” technique, which helps intensify the flavors. Cook for about 10 minutes until the chicken is golden and well-sealed.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and More Spices

Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped tomatoes. Sprinkle in the coriander powder, cumin powder, and the remaining salt.
Continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and form a thick sauce that clings to the chicken. This should take about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Once the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through, sprinkle garam masala over the dish.
Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon and stir well.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Serve hot with rice, naan, or roti for a satisfying meal.

Tips:

For a spicier version, add more green chilies or a pinch of extra red chili powder.
Chicken Bhuna can also be prepared with bone-in chicken for a deeper flavor.
To balance the heat, serve with a side of raita or a refreshing cucumber salad.