Introduction
Are you craving a delicious, spicy, and flavorful chicken dish that can be made quickly? Then Chicken Bhuna is the perfect choice! Bhuna is a popular Indian and Pakistani-style curry where the meat is cooked slowly with spices, but you can also make a quick version at home without compromising on taste. This dish is loved for its rich aroma, thick gravy, and tender chicken pieces that melt in your mouth.
The best part is that you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy restaurant-style Chicken Bhuna at home. Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a special occasion, this recipe will become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients – Chicken Bhuna
To make Quick Chicken Bhuna, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken – 500 grams (cut into medium-sized pieces)
- Onions – 2 medium, finely chopped
- Tomatoes – 2 medium, chopped
- Garlic paste – 1 tablespoon
- Ginger paste – 1 tablespoon
- Green chilies – 2, chopped (optional if you like mild spice)
- Yogurt – 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable oil – 3 tablespoons
- Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
- Cumin powder – 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
- Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves – for garnishing
Step by Step Process – Chicken Bhuna
Here’s how you can make this quick Chicken Bhuna in simple steps:
Step 1: Heat Oil and Sauté Onions
Take a pan or skillet and heat 3 tablespoons of oil on medium flame. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. This step brings out the sweetness and depth of flavor in the bhuna.
Step 2: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Green Chilies
Now add 1 tablespoon each of garlic and ginger paste, along with the chopped green chilies. Cook for 1–2 minutes until the raw smell disappears. This gives a fragrant base for the chicken.
Step 3: Add Spices
Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well for a minute so that the spices are lightly roasted and release their aroma.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the tomatoes turn soft and mushy. This helps to make a rich, flavorful base for your bhuna.
Step 5: Add Chicken
Now, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Mix well so that the chicken is coated with the spices and tomato mixture. Cook for 5–7 minutes on medium flame.
Step 6: Add Yogurt
Add 2 tablespoons of yogurt and mix it into the chicken. Yogurt makes the chicken soft and adds a slightly creamy texture to the bhuna.
Step 7: Cook Until Chicken is Done
Cover the pan with a lid and cook the chicken on low to medium flame for 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally. If you like more gravy, add ½ cup of water. For thicker bhuna, cook without water.
Step 8: Add Garam Masala and Garnish
Once the chicken is tender and cooked through, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of garam masala. Mix well. Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Step 9: Serve Hot
Your quick Chicken Bhuna is ready to serve! Enjoy it with steaming hot rice, naan, or roti.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 serving = 1 cup):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
| Sugar | 3 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Chicken Bhuna without yogurt?
Yes! You can skip yogurt and add a little water instead. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty.
2. How spicy is Chicken Bhuna?
It can be adjusted according to your taste. Reduce or remove green chilies and red chili powder for a mild version.
3. Can I use boneless chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken cooks faster and is perfect for a quick bhuna.
4. Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can cook it a day before. Refrigerate it and reheat before serving. The flavors actually get better the next day.
5. What can I serve with Chicken Bhuna?
It goes well with plain rice, jeera rice, naan, or roti. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or raita.
Final Thoughts
Making Quick Chicken Bhuna at home is easier than you might think. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a rich, aromatic, and flavorful chicken dish in less than 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a weekend treat, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Indian-style curries but doesn’t have hours to cook.
The secret to a good bhuna is slow cooking the onions and spices to bring out their full flavor and ensuring the chicken is tender. With this recipe, you can impress your family and friends with restaurant-style Chicken Bhuna right at your dining table. So, next time you crave something delicious and spicy, try this quick Chicken Bhuna recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!
