Chicken 65 is a popular and flavorful dish hailing from South India, known for its crispy texture and fiery spices. Originating from the vibrant kitchens of Indian restaurants, this dish has become a staple appetizer across the globe. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, then deep-fried to perfection, resulting in a succulent and crunchy exterior while remaining juicy inside. What sets Chicken 65 apart is the unique combination of spices that provide a complex flavor profile, offering a balance of heat, tanginess, and aromatic herbs. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main course, Chicken 65 is sure to impress with its bold flavors and inviting presentation.
Ingredients
To make a delicious and restaurant-style Chicken 65, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 500 grams boneless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder (adjust according to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon rice flour (for crunchiness)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for crispiness)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped cilantro (optional, for added flavor)
For Frying:
- Oil for deep frying (preferably vegetable or canola oil)
For Garnish:
- Fresh curry leaves
- Lemon wedges
- Sliced onions (optional)
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare Chicken 65 in under 30 minutes!
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, lemon juice, rice flour, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add Chicken:
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated with the marinade.
- Marinate:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. If you have time, marinating for a longer period (1-2 hours) will enhance the flavors even more.
Step 2: Preparing for Frying
- Heat the Oil:
- In a deep frying pan or a kadai, heat enough oil to deep fry the chicken. The oil should be heated to about 180°C (350°F). You can test the heat by dropping a small piece of the marinated chicken in the oil; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Step 3: Frying the Chicken
- Fry the Chicken in Batches:
- Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken.
- Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per batch, or until the pieces turn golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken from the oil, allowing any excess oil to drip off. Place the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Frying Curry Leaves
- Fry Curry Leaves:
- In the same hot oil, add a handful of fresh curry leaves and fry them for 30 seconds until they are crisp. Be cautious, as they may splatter.
Step 5: Final Assembly
- Serve the Chicken 65:
- Transfer the fried chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with the crispy curry leaves, lemon wedges, and sliced onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Chicken 65 is best enjoyed hot and can be served as an appetizer or a main course.
- Accompany it with green chutney or raita for a refreshing twist.
- Serve alongside steamed basmati rice or Indian bread (naan or roti) to make it a complete meal.
- For a beverage, pair it with a chilled masala chai or a refreshing mango lassi.
Nutritional Information
Chicken 65 can be a part of a balanced diet, offering several nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Spices: Ingredients like turmeric and red chili peppers are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and health benefits.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The addition of yogurt adds calcium and probiotics, beneficial for digestive health.
Note: Deep frying does increase the calories, so for a healthier version, consider air frying or baking the marinated chicken at high heat until crispy.
Variations to Try
While classic Chicken 65 is a delight, you can explore variations to suit your taste:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with paneer or cauliflower for a vegetarian take.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the level of red chili powder based on your heat tolerance. Adding a dash of black pepper can also enhance the flavor.
- Baked Chicken 65: For a healthier version, preheat an oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake the marinated chicken for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Conclusion
With its irresistible flavor and delightful crunch, Chicken 65 is a dish that brings the taste of Indian restaurants right to your kitchen. Perfect for entertaining or simply satisfying a craving, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress even the most experienced cooks. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and share this mouth-watering dish with your family and friends!
Do try this Chicken 65 recipe and let your culinary adventure begin!