Chicken Bhuna Masala, a classic dish bursting with rich flavours and vibrant spices. This recipe is sure to become a favourite at your table.

Chicken Bhuna Masala is a beloved South Asian dish known for its deep, complex flavours. The term "bhuna" refers to the method of frying the meat with spices to build a rich, thick sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick and flavourful meal that can be served with warm naan or fragrant basmati rice.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder
• 1 tbsp fine sea salt
• 1 tbsp dhania jeera (coriander-cumin powder)
• 1/4 tsp aniseed powder
• 2 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tbsp garlic paste
• 1 tbsp ginger paste

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup oil
• 2 finely chopped onions
• 2 green chilis with slits
• 2 finely chopped tomatoes
• Fresh kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• Freshly chopped coriander

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, combine turmeric powder, red chili powder, Kashmiri red chili powder, fine sea salt, dhania jeera, aniseed powder, garam masala, garlic paste, and ginger paste.
   • Add the chicken pieces and mix thoroughly, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Marinate while you prepare the onions and tomatoes.
2. Prepare the Onions and Tomatoes:
   • In a high-heated pan, add oil. Once hot, add finely chopped onions.
   • Fry the onions until translucent and just beginning to caramelize, about 10 minutes. Stir often to prevent burning.
   • Halfway through, add green chilis with slits to impart their gentle heat. For a milder flavour, remove the seeds.
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
   • Once the onions are golden, add finely chopped tomatoes.
   • Fry the tomatoes with the onions for about 5 minutes until softened and melded together.
4. Add and Fry the Chicken:
   • Add the marinated chicken to the pan, scraping in all the marinade. Fry the chicken with the tomatoes and onions continuously for 15 minutes.
   • Periodically cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to medium to ensure even cooking. Repeat this process about 4 times. Total cooking time may vary; chicken breast may take about 10 minutes.
5. Finish the Dish:
   • Once the chicken is cooked, the oil will rise to the top, indicating it's done. Sprinkle fresh kasuri methi and a generous amount of freshly chopped coriander.

Final Steps:

• Serve the Chicken Bhuna Masala with warm naan or fragrant basmati rice. The stunning colour and divine aroma make this dish a perfect choice for any meal.

Tips:

• For deeper flavour, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
• Adjust the number of green chilis based on your preferred level of heat.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.