Chicken Chargha Recipe
May 12, 2025
Recipe Details:
Chicken Chargha is a spicy, deep-fried whole chicken dish from Lahore, Pakistan, known for its rich marinade and vibrant color. Although the dish is now a mainstay of Punjabi and Lahori cuisine, the name "chargha" is derived from the Pashto language and means chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 1 to 1.5 kg), skinless, with deep cuts/slits
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 cup yogurt (thick, plain)
- 2 tbsp vinegar
- 2 tbsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Orange/red food color (optional, for authentic look)
- 2 tbsp oil or melted ghee (for brushing)
- Water (for steaming)
- Oil (for deep frying or baking)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Clean the chicken and pat dry.
- Make deep slits in the meat so the marinade penetrates.
- Season the chicken with salt and lemon juice. Give it a good fifteen minutes.
2. Marinate:
- Mix yogurt, vinegar, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, cumin, coriander, black pepper, food color (if using), and 2 tbsp oil.
- Rub the marinade thoroughly over and inside the chicken, making sure it gets into the slits.
- In the refrigerator, cover and marinate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Steam or Bake First (for tenderness):
- Option 1 (Steaming): Put the chicken on a rack over simmering water or in a steamer. After steaming for 30 to 40 minutes, the chicken should be tender.
- Option 2 (Baking): Wrap the chicken in foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 45–60 minutes.
4. Final Frying or Broiling:
- Deep Frying: Heat oil and deep-fry the chicken until crisp and golden (around 8–10 minutes).
- Broiling or Air-frying: Grill or broil at high temperature to crisp the outside, brushing with a little oil or ghee.
To Serve:
Add green chutney, onion rings, and lemon slices as garnish.- Serve with naan, raita, or masala fries.
Final Thoughts:
Chicken Chargha is the perfect blend of spice, aroma, and tenderness — a true celebration of Lahori cuisine. Its bold flavors, dramatic presentation, and crispy texture make it a standout dish for special occasions or weekend feasts. Whether you deep-fry for authenticity or bake for a lighter version, the key lies in a well-marinated chicken and a balance of spices.
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