Chicken Chargha: The Ultimate Spiced Chicken Delight Recipe

Chicken Chargha is a beloved Pakistani dish known for its rich flavors and succulent texture. This recipe for Chicken Chargha promises an explosion of spices, creating an unforgettable taste that will have you coming back for more. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this Chicken Chargha recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, bringing the authentic taste of Pakistani cuisine to your table. Follow this detailed guide to achieve a perfect Chicken Chargha every time.

Ingredients

• Whole chicken (1.5 kg) [پوری مرغی (1.5 کلوگرام)]
• Yogurt (1 cup) [دہی (1 کپ)]
• Lemon juice (2 tablespoons) [لیموں کا رس (2 کھانے کے چمچ)]
• Ginger paste (1 tablespoon) [ادرک کا پیسٹ (1 کھانے کا چمچ)]
• Garlic paste (1 tablespoon) [لہسن کا پیسٹ (1 کھانے کا چمچ)]
• Red chili powder (1 tablespoon) [لال مرچ پاؤڈر (1 کھانے کا چمچ)]
• Turmeric powder (1 teaspoon) [ہلدی پاؤڈر (1 چائے کا چمچ)]
• Cumin powder (1 teaspoon) [زیرہ پاؤڈر (1 چائے کا چمچ)]
• Coriander powder (1 teaspoon) [دھنیا پاؤڈر (1 چائے کا چمچ)]
• Garam masala powder (1 teaspoon) [گرم مصالحہ پاؤڈر (1 چائے کا چمچ)]
• Salt (to taste) [نمک (حسب ذائقہ)]
• Oil (for frying) [تیل (تلنے کے لئے)]

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Method of Cooking Step by Step

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, and salt. (بڑی پیالی میں دہی، لیموں کا رس، ادرک کا پیسٹ، لہسن کا پیسٹ، لال مرچ پاؤڈر، ہلدی پاؤڈر، زیرہ پاؤڈر، دھنیا پاؤڈر، گرم مصالحہ پاؤڈر، اور نمک ملا لیں۔)
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Make deep cuts on the chicken to allow the marinade to penetrate. Rub the marinade thoroughly over the chicken, ensuring it gets into all the cuts. Let it marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. (مرغی پر گہرے کٹ لگائیں تاکہ مسالا اندر تک جا سکے۔ مرغی پر اچھی طرح سے مسالا لگائیں اور کم از کم 4 گھنٹے، بہتر ہوگا کہ رات بھر کے لیے میرینیٹ ہونے دیں۔)
3. Steam the Chicken:
   • In a large steamer or a pot with a steamer insert, place the marinated chicken and steam for about 30-35 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. (بڑی سٹیمر یا سٹیمر انسرٹ والے برتن میں مرغی کو رکھیں اور 30-35 منٹ تک بھاپ دیں جب تک مرغی اچھی طرح پک نہ جائے۔)
4. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat oil in a large frying pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the steamed chicken in the pan and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides. (بڑی فرائنگ پین میں تیل گرم کریں۔ جب تیل گرم ہو جائے تو احتیاط سے بھاپ میں پکائی ہوئی مرغی کو پین میں ڈالیں اور ہر طرف سے سنہری اور خستہ ہونے تک تلیں۔)
5. Serve Hot:
   • Serve the Chicken Chargha hot with naan, raita, and salad. (چکن چرغہ کو گرم نان، رائتہ، اور سلاد کے ساتھ گرم گرم پیش کریں۔)

About Chicken Chargha Recipe

Where it’s Cooked

Chicken Chargha is a specialty in Pakistan, particularly in the Punjab region. This flavorful dish is often cooked for festive occasions, family gatherings, and special events, bringing a sense of celebration to the meal.

The History and Origins of this Recipe

The history of Chicken Chargha dates back to the rich culinary traditions of the Indian subcontinent, where marinated and spiced meats have been a staple for centuries. The word “Chargha” itself means “chicken” in Pashto, hinting at its widespread popularity in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region and beyond. The dish has evolved over time, incorporating a unique blend of spices that give it its distinctive taste.

Where People Like it Most

Chicken Chargha is immensely popular in Pakistan, especially in Lahore and Karachi. It’s a favorite at street food stalls, restaurants, and homes alike. People enjoy it most during dinner parties, weddings, and Eid celebrations, where it serves as a central dish.

The Benefits of Ingredients on Health

The ingredients used in Chicken Chargha are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Yogurt aids in digestion and is rich in probiotics. Spices like ginger, garlic, and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties and are known to boost the immune system.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Chargha

• Ensure the chicken is marinated for a sufficient amount of time to absorb all the flavors.
• Use fresh spices for a more aromatic and authentic taste.
• Steaming the chicken before frying helps in achieving a juicy interior with a crispy exterior.
• Fry the chicken on medium-high heat to prevent burning.