Name: Chicken Bhuna Masala
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 500 grams of chicken (curry-cut, bone-in); 1/4 cup yogurt; 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste; 1/2 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp salt; 2 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (adjust to taste); 2 tsp oil; 3 tsp ghee/clarified butter; 2 onions, finely chopped (about 1 and 1/4 cup); 3 tsp coriander powder; 1 tsp cumin powder; 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder; 4 tomatoes, finely chopped (about 2 cups); Salt to taste; 1 tsp lemon juice; 1 tsp garam masala powder (or chicken masala powder); 1 green chili, slit (optional); 1 tsp roasted kasuri methi; Fresh coriander leaves for garnish; Whole spices: 1 bay leaf, 1 dried red chili (deseeded), 1 tsp cumin, 1-inch cinnamon, 4 cloves, 3 green cardamoms, and 10 black peppercorns

Jump to Recipe

When it comes to vibrant flavors and aromatic spices, few dishes can rival Chicken Bhuna Masala. This hearty curry, simmered to perfection, is a staple on many tables, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering. With a delightful blend of spices and tender chicken, it’s no wonder this recipe has carved out a special place in my heart and my kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes this dish truly special and how to recreate it at home with ease.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Chicken Bhuna Masala is more than just another chicken curry; it’s a celebration of authentic flavors and wholesome ingredients. What sets this recipe apart is its unique cooking method—bhuna, which means to sauté and simmer, allowing the spices to develop deep, rich flavors. You’ll love making this dish for several reasons:

Budget-Friendly: With simple, readily available ingredients, this dish won’t break the bank.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in about 30-45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters can’t resist the comforting flavors of this dish.
Versatile: Serve it with rice, naan, or even in wraps; the options are endless.

“The Chicken Bhuna Masala was a hit at our family dinner! The flavors were bold without being overwhelming — a true crowd-pleaser!” – Food Enthusiast

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Preparing Chicken Bhuna Masala is straightforward and involves a series of simple steps that layer flavor beautifully. Here’s a quick overview of how you will bring this dish to life:

Marinate the chicken for a tender and flavorful base.
Sauté onions until golden to build rich depth in the masala.
Add spices and tomatoes, simmering to create the bhuna masala.
Combine chicken with the masala, allowing it to soak all the flavors.
Finish with fresh herbs to elevate the flavors before serving.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make Chicken Bhuna Masala, you’ll need the following ingredients:

500 grams of chicken (curry-cut, bone-in)
1/4 cup yogurt
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp salt
2 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (adjust to taste)
2 tsp oil
3 tsp ghee/clarified butter
2 onions, finely chopped (about 1 and 1/4 cup)
3 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
4 tomatoes, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
Salt to taste
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp garam masala powder (or chicken masala powder)
1 green chili, slit (optional)
1 tsp roasted kasuri methi
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Whole spices: 1 bay leaf, 1 dried red chili (deseeded), 1 tsp cumin, 1-inch cinnamon, 4 cloves, 3 green cardamoms, and 10 black peppercorns

(Feel free to use boneless chicken or switch to alternative proteins like paneer or tofu for a vegetarian option!)

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Cooking Steps

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, salt, and Kashmiri red chili powder. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes — longer for deeper flavor.
Cook the Onions: In a large pan, heat oil and ghee over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, which will take about 10-15 minutes.
Add the Spices: Toss in the bay leaf, dried red chili, cumin, cinnamon, cloves, cardamoms, and peppercorns. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
Incorporate the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes along with coriander powder and cumin powder. Cook until the mixture reduces and the oil separates from the masala, about 10 minutes.
Combine Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Stir well to coat the meat with the masala. Cover and cook on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is tender.
Final Touches: Stir in lemon juice, garam masala, green chili, and kasuri methi. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Garnish: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot!

Best Way to Serve

Chicken Bhuna Masala shines on its own but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Basmati Rice: Fluffy, aromatic rice complements the rich sauce beautifully.
Naan or Roti: Soft flatbreads are perfect for scooping up the curry.
Salad: A fresh cucumber or onion salad can add a refreshing crunch and balance the spices.
Raita: Creamy yogurt with cucumbers and mint can cool off the palate.

Keeping Chicken Bhuna Masala Fresh Longer

Proper storage is key to enjoying the flavors of Chicken Bhuna Masala at its best. Here’s how to keep your dish fresh:

** Refrigerate:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water to prevent drying.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Always be sure to practice safe food handling—discard any leftovers that have been left out for more than two hours.

Expert Advice

Here are some handy tips to elevate your Chicken Bhuna Masala:

Aging spices: Fresh spices have more potency, so consider buying whole spices and grinding them yourself for the best flavor.
Customize your heat: Adjust the amount of Kashmiri red chili powder based on your taste preference for spice.
Let it rest: Allowing the finished dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors even more.

Flavor Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some creative twists on the classic Chicken Bhuna Masala:

Add Vegetables: Toss in some peas or potatoes for an added layer of texture and nutrition.
Coconut Cream: Introducing a splash of coconut cream can impart a unique creaminess and flavor.
Different Proteins: Consider using lamb or shrimp for variations in protein or try a vegetarian twist with paneer or mixed vegetables.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to make this dish?

This Chicken Bhuna Masala recipe can be prepared in about 45 minutes from start to finish, including marinating time.

Can I substitute yogurt for something else?

Yes, if you’re lactose intolerant or prefer not to use dairy, you can substitute yogurt with coconut yogurt or a non-dairy alternative.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Adjust the quantity of Kashmiri chili powder or skip the green chili altogether. Add a little sugar to balance out the heat as well!

Bringing Chicken Bhuna Masala to your kitchen is a rewarding experience not just for your taste buds, but also for gatherings and family meals. Give it a try, and discover why this dish might just become a cherished favorite in your home too!