This Irresistible Chicken Bhuna recipe offers a rich and flavorful home-cooked experience featuring tender boneless chicken thighs marinated in aromatic spices and slow-cooked to a fragrant curry perfection.
Author:Mari
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:44 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 4 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Curry
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Indian
Ingredients
UnitsScale
Marinade
6 cloves garlic (Adds a pungent aroma and depth of flavor; substitute with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.)
2.5 cm fresh root ginger (Provides warmth and zest; use powdered ginger as a last resort.)
750g boneless chicken thighs (Rich in flavor and tender, ideal for this dish.)
2 tbsp Greek-style yoghurt (Provides creaminess and subtle tang; substitute with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.)
2 tsp mild chilli powder (For gentle heat and color; adjust for desired spice level.)
Curry Base
300g finely chopped onions (Forms the base of the curry, adding sweetness when browned.)
100g tomatoes (Contributes acidity and freshness; canned tomatoes can be used.)
2 tbsp tomato purée (Intensifies tomato flavor; tomato paste can be a substitute.)
4 tbsp vegetable oil (Essential for cooking; substitutes like ghee or olive oil can be used.)
3 pieces dried mild red chillies (Imparts flavor without overwhelming heat.)
Spices & Seasoning
0.5 tsp ground turmeric (Offers vibrant color and earthy flavor.)
1 tsp ground cumin (Adds warmth and earthiness.)
1 tbsp ground coriander (Enhances the curry flavor profile.)
1 tsp garam masala (Key seasoning blend that adds warmth.)
0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper (Enhances flavor.)
1 tsp fennel seeds (Contributes a sweet, anise-like flavor.)
salt (Essential for flavor enhancement; use to taste.)
chopped fresh coriander (For garnish and freshness; can substitute with parsley.)
Instructions
Preparation – Start by blending garlic, ginger, and a splash of water to create a smooth paste. Combine this with the remaining marinade ingredients, add the boneless chicken thighs, and allow it to marinate for at least 1 hour—preferably overnight.
Prepare Tomato Base – Next, blend your chopped tomatoes with the tomato purée until smooth. This will serve as the rich base of your fragrant curry. Set it aside for later use.
Sauté Onions and Chillies – Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Toss in the dried red chillies, then add the finely chopped onions. Sauté gently for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
Cook Tomato Paste and Chicken – Stir in your prepared tomato paste and cook for an additional 5 minutes to enhance the flavor. Now, add the marinated chicken, cooking for about 6 minutes.
Simmer Curry – Season the dish with salt, lower the heat, and cover. Let it simmer for around 8 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Season and Garnish – Mix in the fennel seeds, freshly ground black pepper, and garam masala. Garnish with fresh coriander, and serve hot.
Notes
Substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder if unavailable.
Powdered ginger can be used as a last resort in place of fresh root ginger.
Coconut yogurt can replace Greek-style yoghurt for a dairy-free option.
Canned tomatoes can substitute fresh tomatoes.
Tomato paste can be used instead of tomato purée.
Ghee or olive oil may be used instead of vegetable oil.
Parsley can substitute fresh coriander for garnish.
Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for best flavor.