If you’ve ever sunk your teeth into a perfectly grilled, smoky, and spicy Alfaham chicken, you know it’s more than just a meal—it’s a flavor-packed experience. Originating from the Arabian Peninsula and wildly popular across the Gulf and parts of India, Alfaham (also spelled Al Faham or Al Fahem) is marinated grilled chicken, usually cooked over open flame or charcoal for a distinct smoky flavor.
The good news? You don’t need a fancy grill or tandoor to enjoy this dish at home. With a good marinade and some simple cooking techniques, you can make restaurant-style Alfaham chicken in your own kitchen.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a classic Alfaham marinade that hits all the right notes—spicy, tangy, and rich.
🐔 For the Chicken:
1 whole chicken (cut into 4 pieces or use large leg quarters)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt, to taste
🌶️ For the Marinade:
1 cup thick yogurt (Greek yogurt or hung curd)
2 tablespoons Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
1 tablespoon paprika or regular chili powder (for heat)
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
Salt, to taste
Optional: a pinch of red food color (for that signature red hue)
🧄 Step 1: Prep & Marinate
Clean and score the chicken (make deep cuts so the marinade penetrates well).
In a bowl, mix all marinade ingredients into a smooth paste.
Rub the marinade generously into the chicken pieces.
Cover and marinate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight in the fridge.
Pro tip: The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavor. Overnight is ideal!
🔥 Step 2: Cooking Methods
You have a few great options for cooking Alfaham chicken at home:
🍢 1. On a Charcoal Grill (Traditional)
Grill chicken over medium charcoal heat.
Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping and basting with oil or butter until charred and juicy.
🔥 2. In an Oven
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place chicken on a baking rack or tray.
Roast for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Broil (top grill) the last 5 minutes for a charred finish.
🍳 3. On a Grill Pan or Tawa (Stovetop)
Heat a non-stick grill pan and add a bit of oil.
Cook chicken on medium heat, pressing gently to sear well.
Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping occasionally.
🥙 What to Serve with Alfaham Chicken
Arabic khuboos (pita bread)
Garlic dip or toum
Pickled veggies
Fresh salad or hummus
Fragrant rice like mandi or spiced biryani rice
🌟 Final Tips for Perfect Alfaham
Use Kashmiri chili powder for color without too much heat.
Don’t skip the yogurt—it tenderizes the chicken.
Add a few charcoal pieces in a bowl inside your marinating container for a smoky aroma (use the dhungar method).
📸 Try It & Tag Me!
Tried this recipe? Share your Alfaham photos on Instagram and tag @YourFoodBlogName — I’d love to feature your creations!
✅ Bonus: Want a Garlic Sauce Recipe Too?
Let me know in the comments, and I’ll share a simple 3-ingredient garlic sauce that pairs perfectly with Alfaham.