🍗🌿 Afghan Chicken Recipe – Creamy, Smoky & Full of Flavor
Prep Time: 15 mins | Marination Time: 4–6 hrs (or overnight)
Cook Time: 25–30 mins | Total Time: ~6 hrs
Servings: 4–5 | Cuisine: Afghan, Middle Eastern | Course: Main, Dinner
Difficulty: Moderate
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Afghan Chicken
This Afghan Chicken recipe features a unique blend of mild spices, creamy yogurt, and charcoal-grilled flavor that sets it apart from other grilled chicken dishes. The marinade is deeply aromatic without being overly spicy — making it a hit with both kids and adults.
It’s perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or special occasions when you want something truly authentic and satisfying.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 to 2 lbs chicken (bone-in thighs, legs, or breasts)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
For the Afghan Marinade:
- 1 cup thick plain yogurt (Hung curd or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp fresh cream or mayonnaise (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- 1–2 green chilies (finely chopped or paste)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp oil or melted butter
🔥 Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
- Wash and pat the chicken dry.
- Rub with lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Let sit for 15 mins.
2. Make the Marinade
In a bowl, mix yogurt, cream, ginger-garlic paste, spices, chilies, and lemon juice until smooth.
3. Marinate
- Add chicken to the marinade, coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Grill or Bake
Grill Method:
- Preheat grill to medium-high. Oil the grates.
- Grill chicken for 20–25 mins, turning occasionally and basting with butter.
Oven Method:
- Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 25–30 mins or until cooked through.
- Optional: Broil for last 3–5 mins for a charred finish.
Stovetop:
- Cook on a grill pan or tawa over medium heat, flipping and basting with butter until done.
5. Charcoal Infusion (Optional)
- Place a hot charcoal piece in a small bowl or foil cup.
- Set inside the dish of cooked chicken, drizzle a bit of oil or ghee over the charcoal and cover immediately.
- Let smoke infuse for 3–5 mins for authentic BBQ flavor.
6. Serve Hot
Garnish with lime wedges, sliced onions, and fresh mint or cilantro.
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Afghan or naan bread
- Jeera rice or plain basmati
- Cucumber raita or mint yogurt dip
- Pickled onions or salad
🧪 Recipe Tips & Variations
Type | Variation |
---|---|
Extra Creamy | Add 1 tbsp of cheese spread or cashew paste |
Spicy Version | Add red chili flakes or increase green chili |
Smoky Tandoori Touch | Charcoal smoke method or use smoked paprika |
Low-fat | Use low-fat yogurt and skip cream |
❓ FAQ
Q: Is Afghan chicken spicy?
No — it’s more aromatic than spicy, making it suitable for all spice levels.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Marinate a day ahead for best flavor. Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days.
Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but bone-in pieces stay juicier on the grill or in the oven.
🧾 Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: ~28g
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbs: ~5g
- Sodium: Moderate
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