Chicken Bhurji
Spicy, savory minced chicken cooked with onions, tomatoes, and aromatic Indian spices. This quick and easy North Indian dish is perfect with pav or roti for a hearty meal, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
Heat oil in a pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for about 30 seconds. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies and cook for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy, about 5-6 minutes. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook the masala until the oil starts to separate from the sides of the pan, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the minced chicken to the pan, using a spatula to break up any lumps. Mix the chicken well with the masala, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). If the mixture looks too dry, you can add a splash of water. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Sprinkle the garam masala and add the lemon juice. Give it a final mix. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Serve the Chicken Bhurji hot with pav (bread rolls), roti, or as a filling for sandwiches.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer flavor, use minced chicken made from thighs instead of breast.
- 2Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Cook just until it's done.
- 3Breaking up the lumps of minced chicken as it cooks is key to getting the right 'bhurji' texture.
- 4For a Mumbai street-style flavor, add a teaspoon of pav bhaji masala along with the other spices.
- 5You can add finely chopped capsicum (bell pepper) or green peas along with the tomatoes for extra texture and nutrition.
- 6Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Use lean chicken breast mince and reduce the oil to 1.5 tablespoons. Add finely chopped bell peppers or peas for extra vegetables.
high proteinHigh protein
Increase the chicken mince to 600g and serve alongside a lentil salad or dal for a protein-packed meal.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the green chilies and reduce the red chili powder to 1/4 teaspoon. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato ketchup for a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.
quickQuick
Use pre-made ginger-garlic paste and canned chopped tomatoes to significantly cut down on preparation time.