Name: Chicken Bhuna Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced into 1-inch chunks; 4 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped; 1 green chili, deseeded and chopped; 2 tbsp fresh ginger, chopped; 2 onions, diced; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 2 tsp chili powder; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp garam masala; 5 tomatoes, chopped; 1/2 tsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped; 3 tbsp vegetable oil; Salt, to taste; 100 ml water

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Introduction

Chicken Bhuna is a flavorful Indian dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that’s both aromatic and satisfying.

The image shows a meal with a blue bowl filled halfway with white rice and topped on one side by a thick, dark brown chicken curry with visible pieces of chicken and spices. Next to it is a metallic bowl filled with white rice, and another metallic bowl containing yellow lentil soup with small mustard seeds and green peas. The dishes are placed on a black textured mat along with three bright red chili peppers scattered around. On the left, there is a fork resting on a dark gray napkin, and to the right, a set of small silver salt and pepper shakers. A silver fork is placed at the top right corner. The surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced into 1-inch chunks
4 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
1 green chili, deseeded and chopped
2 tbsp fresh ginger, chopped
2 onions, diced
1 tsp turmeric powder
2 tsp chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp garam masala
5 tomatoes, chopped
1/2 tsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
3 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt, to taste
100 ml water

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the oil in a large, deep frying pan or wok. Add the garlic, green chili, and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the diced onions and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
Step 3: Stir in the turmeric, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Cook for another minute to release the spices’ aromas.
Step 4: Add the chopped tomatoes, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir well, cover the pan, and bring to a boil. Let the sauce cook until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add the diced chicken pieces, stirring to coat them evenly with the masala sauce. Cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Step 6: Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use thighs for juicier chicken, but you can substitute with chicken breast if preferred.
Add a dollop of yogurt or cream at the end for a richer sauce.
If you like more heat, keep the seeds in the green chili or add extra chili powder.
Serve with steamed rice or warm naan to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Storage

Store leftover Chicken Bhuna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 1 month and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A black metal pan with two handles contains a rich, red-brown chicken curry with visible chunks of cooked chicken and pieces of tomato, all generously sprinkled with chopped green herbs. The pan rests on a wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. To the right of the pan, there are two pieces of grilled flatbread stacked loosely, light brown with grill marks, placed directly on the wooden board. To the left, a metal spoon lies on a white cloth with blue stripes, casually folded beside the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used but it tends to dry out faster. Adjust cooking time to prevent overcooking and dryness.

Is Chicken Bhuna spicy?

The dish has moderate heat from the green chili and chili powder, but you can adjust the spice level according to your taste by reducing or increasing these ingredients.