If you’re craving a rich, flavorful, and aromatic dish, Chicken Bhuna is a must-try! This classic Indian dish is all about slow-cooked spices, tender chicken, and a thick, deeply flavorful sauce that clings to every bite. It’s a dish that tastes like it took hours to make, but trust me—it’s easier than you think!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and Flavorful: The slow-cooked spices create a deep, bold taste that’s truly irresistible.
Easy to Make: No complicated steps—just simple, traditional cooking techniques that bring out the best flavors.
Perfect for Meal Prep: The flavors get even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead dish.
Customizable: Adjust the spice levels to your liking, making it as mild or as fiery as you want.
Ingredients in Chicken Bhuna
Chicken: Bone-in or boneless, chicken soaks up all the wonderful spices.
Onions: Caramelized onions create a rich base for the sauce.
Tomatoes: Adds a natural sweetness and forms the thick, flavorful masala.
Garlic and Ginger: Essential aromatics that add warmth and depth.
Spices (Turmeric, Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala, Chili Powder): The heart of any good bhuna, these spices build layers of flavor.
Green Chilies: Optional, but they add a nice kick of heat.
Yogurt: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a creamy balance to the spices.
Fresh Cilantro: For a pop of freshness to finish the dish.
How to Make Chicken Bhuna
Sauté the Onions: Heat oil in a pan and cook onions until golden brown and caramelized.
Add the Aromatics: Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chilies, cooking until fragrant.
Toast the Spices: Add turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder, stirring until the spices release their aroma.
Cook the Chicken: Add chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, allowing the spices to coat them beautifully.
Simmer with Tomatoes: Stir in tomatoes and cook until they break down, forming a thick masala.
Finish with Yogurt: Add a spoonful of yogurt, mixing well to create a rich and balanced sauce.
Cook to Perfection: Let everything simmer until the chicken is tender and the sauce clings to it.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot!
How to Serve Chicken Bhuna
- With Naan or Roti: Perfect for scooping up the thick, spiced sauce.
- Over Steamed Rice: A simple, classic way to enjoy bhuna.
- With a Side Salad: A fresh cucumber and onion salad adds a refreshing crunch.
Additional Tips
Make It Creamy: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk for a smoother texture.
Spice Control: Adjust chili powder and green chilies based on your heat preference.
Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A1: Yes, but thighs stay juicier and more flavorful in this dish.
Q2: Can I make Chicken Bhuna ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.
Q3: How do I make it spicier?
A3: Add extra chili powder or fresh chilies for more heat.
Q4: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A4: Yes! Sauté the onions and spices first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours.
Q5: What’s the difference between Chicken Bhuna and other Indian curries?
A5: Bhuna has less liquid and a thicker sauce because the spices and chicken are slow-cooked together.
Q6: Can I freeze Chicken Bhuna?
A6: Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Q7: What can I use instead of yogurt?
A7: Coconut milk or cashew cream works as a dairy-free alternative.
Q8: Do I need to marinate the chicken?
A8: Marinating in yogurt and spices for a few hours enhances the flavor, but it’s not essential.
Q9: Can I add vegetables?
A9: Absolutely! Bell peppers, potatoes, or peas work great in this dish.
Q10: How do I reheat Chicken Bhuna?
A10: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Bhuna is packed with rich, bold flavors and is incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Try it and let me know what you think!
Print
Chicken Bhuna
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
Chicken Bhuna is a flavorful, thick, and aromatic Indian curry where tender chicken is cooked in a rich blend of spices, onions, tomatoes, and garlic. This dish is known for its intense flavors due to the slow-cooking process, allowing the spices to develop beautifully. It’s a healthy homemade recipe that pairs perfectly with rice or naan for a satisfying meal. Enjoy this quick dinner idea packed with high protein and bold flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or ghee)
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into pieces
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup water (if needed)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chili. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft and combined with onions.
- Mix in cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, red chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well.
- Add the chicken pieces, coating them in the spice mixture. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If the mixture is too dry, add a little water to prevent sticking. Let it simmer until chicken is cooked through.
- Once the chicken is tender and coated in a thick sauce, garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or naan.
Notes
- Use bone-in chicken for extra flavor.
- Adjust spices according to your heat preference.
- For a richer taste, cook longer on low heat to enhance the bhuna texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (with chicken only)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 85mg