Chicken Bhuna: A Flavorful Indian Curry

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Chicken Bhuna is a traditional Indian curry that tantalizes the taste buds with its delicious combination of fried onions and aromatic herbs and spices. This flavorful dish is a favorite among curry lovers and is often enjoyed with freshly cooked basmati rice and naan bread. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, cooking process, and nutrition facts of Chicken Bhuna, as well as share some tips and reviews from the Allrecipes community.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Cooking Directions
4. Nutrition Facts
5. Reviews
6. Photos of Chicken Bhuna
7. Variations and Tips
8. Health Benefits
9. Serving Suggestions
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
11. Conclusion
12. References

1. Introduction

Chicken Bhuna is a classic Indian curry that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is known for its rich flavors and tender chicken pieces cooked in a thick, aromatic sauce. The word “bhuna” refers to the cooking technique of frying the spices and onions until they are well-browned, which adds depth and intensity to the dish.

2. Ingredients

To make Chicken Bhuna, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 medium onions, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chiles, halved lengthways (Optional)
• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cubed
• 1 teaspoon curry paste, such as Patak’s
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

3. Cooking Directions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare Chicken Bhuna:

1. Heat oil in a nonstick pan over high heat. Add onion and salt and cook until the onion has softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the crushed garlic and minced ginger until fragrant. Add hot water, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the water has evaporated, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chili powder, ground coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Cook and stir over high heat until the spices are toasted, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes and green chiles, cover, and cook over low heat for 5 minutes.
4. Add the cubed chicken to the pan and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in curry paste, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the chicken is cooked through, adding a little water if necessary, about 5 minutes.
5. Check the seasoning and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro.

4. Nutrition Facts

Here are the nutrition facts per serving of Chicken Bhuna:

• Calories: 182
• Fat: 9g
• Carbs: 16g
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 612mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 8g

Please note that these values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the serving size.

5. Reviews

Let’s take a look at what some members of the Allrecipes community have to say about Chicken Bhuna:

• Kevin: “A decent dish with good flavor. You really smell the authenticity of the spices, but I would consider draining out the water of the onions. It definitely won’t evaporate.”
• Jedi Chimp: “I doubled the curry paste and I swapped out fresh tomatoes for tinned chopped tomatoes and also swapped out fresh chilies for crushed chili paste.”
• PseudoChefJake: “Very tasty, made no changes.”
• France C: “Really tasty dish! I did have to double the curry paste to give it more flavor, and a bit of salt at the end, but otherwise this was delicious and healthy.”

6. Photos of Chicken Bhuna

[Insert appealing image of Chicken Bhuna here]

7. Variations and Tips

• For a spicier version, add more chili powder or include the optional green chiles.
• Experiment with different curry pastes to vary the flavor profile of the dish.
• Consider using bone-in chicken pieces for added flavor and juiciness.
• Garnish with additional cilantro leaves for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Serve with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.

8. Health Benefits

Chicken Bhuna has several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while the spices used in the dish, such as ginger, garlic, and turmeric, have been associated with various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

9. Serving Suggestions

Chicken Bhuna pairs well with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of raita, a cooling yogurt-based condiment, to balance out the flavors.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. They will add a richer flavor to the dish.

Q: Can I make Chicken Bhuna in advance? A: Yes, Chicken Bhuna can be made in advance and reheated when ready to serve. The flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.

Q: Can I freeze Chicken Bhuna? A: Yes, Chicken Bhuna can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to cool it completely before freezing and thaw it thoroughly before reheating.