why make this recipe
Chicken bhuna is a flavorful dish that brings the warmth of homemade comfort food to your dinner table. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home. This dish combines tender chicken with aromatic spices, making each bite a delight. Plus, it’s fairly easy to make, requiring mostly simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen.
how to make Chicken Bhuna
Ingredients
- 1 pound diced chicken thighs (Substitute with chicken breast if preferred.)
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 piece chopped green chili (Optional for milder flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1 large diced onion
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water
- to taste salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (Can substitute with ghee for richer flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (Juice of half a lemon.)
- 1 bunch fresh coriander (Used as garnish.)
Directions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until golden brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped green chili. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the turmeric, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Stir well for about a minute.
- Add the diced chicken thighs to the pan and season with salt. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Mix in the chopped tomatoes and water. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Once done, squeeze in the lemon juice and mix.
- Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.
how to serve Chicken Bhuna
Serve chicken bhuna hot over a bed of steamed rice or with warm naan for a complete meal. Pair it with a side salad or raita for extra freshness.
how to store Chicken Bhuna
Leftover chicken bhuna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
tips to make Chicken Bhuna
- For more depth in flavor, let the spices cook longer before adding the chicken.
- Adjust the level of spices according to your taste. You can add more chili powder for heat or skip the green chili for a milder dish.
- Using chicken thighs adds tenderness, but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition and taste. Another great variation is to add coconut milk for a creamier texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking for even cooking and flavor absorption.
2. Is Chicken Bhuna spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the green chili.
3. Can I make Chicken Bhuna ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Just make sure to refrigerate it properly.

Chicken Bhuna
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful chicken dish with aromatic spices, perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound diced chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 piece chopped green chili (optional)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1 large diced onion
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup water
- to taste salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or ghee)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (juice of half a lemon)
- 1 bunch fresh coriander (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook until golden brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped green chili. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the turmeric, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Stir well for about a minute.
- Add the diced chicken thighs to the pan and season with salt. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Mix in the chopped tomatoes and water. Cover and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Once done, squeeze in the lemon juice and mix.
- Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.
Notes
For deeper flavor, let the spices cook longer before adding the chicken. Adjust spice levels as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg




