Monday, July 16, 2012

Lahori-Style Chicken Chargha recipe by morEwish



Updated on January 20th, 2025

Close your eyes and picture a golden, perfectly roasted chicken, sizzling with spices, its aroma filling the air. That's the magic of Chicken Chargha, a Lahori delicacy that promises to tantalize your taste buds.

This whole roasted chicken, marinated in an array of spices and cooked to perfection, is a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also evokes the bustling streets of Lahore, where the aroma of sizzling food fills the air.

Why Chicken Chargha? 

Chicken Chargha is more than just a meal; it’s an embodiment of Lahore’s deep-rooted culinary heritage. The dish, known for its fiery spices and succulent texture, is traditionally deep-fried to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. However, in today's health-conscious world, variations such as steaming or air frying have become popular, offering the same burst of flavors with fewer calories. Whichever method you choose, the essence of Chicken Chargha remains—a celebration of spices, aroma, and taste.


FAQs:


“Can I use boneless chicken?”
Yes, but the traditional recipe uses a whole chicken for the best flavor.

“What if I don’t have an air fryer?”
No problem! You can still achieve great results with deep frying or steaming.

Step-by-Step Instructions:


1. Prepare the Marinade:

The key to an authentic Chicken Chargha lies in its marinade. Combining yogurt, minced garlic, ginger paste, salt, red chili powder, all-spice powder, cumin powder, lemon juice, and food color creates a robust and aromatic blend. This mixture not only imparts flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, ensuring each bite is infused with the perfect balance of spices.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

To allow the marinade to penetrate thoroughly, make deep cuts in the whole chicken. Ensure every inch of the chicken, including the cavity, is generously coated. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for a minimum of 4 hours, though overnight marination is ideal for deeper flavor absorption.

3. Cook the Chicken:

Steaming: If you prefer a softer, more tender chicken, steaming is an excellent option. Place the marinated chicken and remaining marinade in a pot. Let it sizzle briefly, then cover and cook on low heat. Turn the chicken occasionally to cook it evenly. Steaming not only keeps the chicken moist but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Deep Frying: For a classic Chargha with a crispy exterior, heat oil in a deep pan. Fry the marinated chicken until golden brown. This method enhances the spices' intensity, creating a crispy, flavorful crust.

Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (360°F). Lightly spray the chicken with oil and air fry for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway. This method offers a healthier alternative while still delivering a crispy texture and rich taste.

4. Cook the Remaining Marinade:

Don’t let the marinade go to waste! After removing the chicken, place the pot with the leftover marinade on high heat. Cook it down until it thickens into a luscious sauce. This concentrated sauce is perfect for drizzling over the chicken or using as a flavorful dip.

5. Serving Suggestions:

Once your Chicken Chargha is ready, the final touches elevate the dish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken to enhance its zesty flavors and sprinkle chaat masala for a tangy kick. Serve it hot with garlic fried rice, a crisp salad, cool raita (yogurt dip), and the thickened marinade sauce. This combination creates a well-rounded meal that captures the essence of Lahore’s culinary charm.

Instagram Reel:


Video Tutorial:



Ingredients for Lahori Chicken Chargha:


Whole chicken with bone (about 3 lbs)
Yogurt: 4 tbsp
Garlic paste: 1 tsp
Ginger paste: 1 tsp
Salt: 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
Red chili powder: 1 tsp (adjust to taste)
All-spice powder (garam masala): 1 tsp
Cumin powder: 1 tsp
Lemon juice: 4 tbsp
Tandoori or orange food color: A good pinch
Oil: 2 tbsp (for marinade)
Lemon juice and chaat masala: For sprinkling
Additional oil for deep frying or spray oil for air frying

Tip:
If you want to cut down on calories, consider air frying the chicken instead of deep frying. You’ll still get that crispy exterior with a fraction of the oil!



Chicken Chargha is more than a dish; it's a journey into the heart of Lahore’s food culture. Each bite is a reminder of the city’s rich traditions and love for bold, flavorful food. By following this detailed recipe, you can recreate the magic of Lahori street food in your kitchen, impressing family and friends with a dish that is as authentic as it is delicious. So, roll up your sleeves and embark on this culinary adventure, bringing the vibrant flavors of Lahore to your dining table.

We’d love to see how your Chicken Chargha turns out! Share your photos and experiences in the comments or on social media using #LahoriChargha. Happy cooking!




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