Description
Spicy chicken bhuna brings fiery Indian flavors to life with perfectly seared tender meat and aromatic spices. Crispy golden edges and rich masala sauce promise an authentic culinary journey that delights you with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 lbs (0.9 kg) chicken (bone-in thighs or boneless pieces)
Fresh Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned tomatoes)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 12 green chilies, sliced (optional)
Spices and Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water (if needed)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Create a flavor foundation by caramelizing sliced onions in heated oil until they transform into a rich, golden-brown hue, releasing their sweet, deep essence.
- Awaken the aromatic potential by introducing minced garlic, grated ginger, and a symphony of ground spices – cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Allow these ingredients to dance and release their intense fragrance.
- Introduce chicken pieces into the spice-infused base, meticulously coating each morsel to ensure maximum flavor penetration. Sear the meat until it develops a beautiful, slightly crisp exterior.
- Incorporate diced tomatoes, creating a vibrant, robust sauce. Reduce heat and allow the mixture to gently simmer, enabling the chicken to tenderize and the sauce to gradually thicken and concentrate its flavors.
- Elevate the dish’s complexity by sprinkling garam masala during the final moments of cooking. Optional: add fresh green chilies for an extra layer of heat and brightness.
- Complete the culinary journey by garnishing with freshly chopped cilantro, presenting a visually appealing and aromatic dish that pairs beautifully with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice.
Notes
- Caramelize onions slowly to develop a deep, rich flavor that forms the base of this aromatic dish.
- Toast whole spices briefly before grinding to enhance their essential oils and create a more intense, complex taste profile.
- Choose bone-in chicken pieces for extra juiciness and more robust flavor if you prefer a more traditional preparation.
- Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing chili powder and green chilies to suit your personal heat tolerance or dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg