Chicken 65 is a beloved spicy food from South India, known for its bold flavors and crispy texture. This iconic dish features boneless chicken marinated in a yogurt-spice blend and fried to golden perfection. Tossed with garlic, curry leaves, and green chilies, Chicken 65 is tangy, fiery, and irresistibly crunchy—perfect as a starter or party snack that brings authentic Indian flavor to your table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 3 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp rice flour

• Oil for deep frying

• Curry leaves and sliced green chili peppers (for garnish)

• 1 tbsp chopped garlic

• Black pepper powder (for finishing)

For the Marinade:

• 4 tbsp yogurt

• 1½ tsp Kashmiri red chili powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp cumin powder

• 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   Combine chicken with all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight).

2. Coat for Crispiness:
   Add cornstarch and rice flour to the marinated chicken. Mix to coat evenly.

3. Fry Garnishes:
   Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry curry leaves and green chilies for 30 seconds. Remove and set aside.

4. Fry the Chicken:
   Fry chicken in batches for 5–6 minutes on medium-high heat until crispy and golden. Drain on a wire rack.

5. Flavor Boost:
   In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp oil. Sauté garlic, extra curry leaves, and chilies. Add fried chicken and toss to coat.

6. Serve:
   Transfer to a plate, garnish with fried herbs and chilies, sprinkle black pepper, and squeeze lemon juice on top. Serve hot as an appetizer or with naan/rice.

Nutrients (Estimated per Serving)

• Calories: ~280–320

• Fat: ~15–18g

• Carbohydrates: ~12–15g

• Protein: ~22–25g

The Flavor Profile of Chicken 65

Chicken 65 is defined by its vibrant, spicy, and aromatic flavor profile. The marinade, made with yogurt, Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and ginger garlic paste, imparts a tangy and spicy base that’s further elevated by a crispy coating. The marinated chicken absorbs all the spices, which gives each bite a deep, well-rounded flavor. Kashmiri chili powder adds a mild heat and a rich red color to the chicken, while garam masala adds a touch of warmth and complexity.

The addition of lemon juice, salt, and sugar balances the spiciness, creating a harmony of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet notes. The crispy texture of the fried chicken is complemented by the fresh, fragrant curry leaves and sliced green chilies, which bring an herbal, slightly bitter taste and additional heat. The result is a dish that combines rich, bold flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it an unforgettable snack or appetizer.

The Secret to Crispy Chicken 65

One of the key elements of Chicken 65 is its crispy texture. The secret lies in the use of cornstarch and rice flour, which are added to the marinated chicken to create a light and crunchy coating. Rice flour, in particular, adds extra crispness without weighing down the chicken, giving it the perfect crunch while maintaining the tenderness inside. This crispy coating ensures that the chicken retains its texture even after being tossed in the flavorful garlic and curry leaf mixture.

The deep frying process also plays a crucial role in achieving that golden, crispy exterior. Frying the chicken in batches allows the pieces to cook evenly without overcrowding the pan, ensuring that each piece is perfectly crisp. The result is golden-brown pieces of chicken with a satisfying crunch on the outside and tender, flavorful meat on the inside.

The Marinade: Infusing Flavor into the Chicken

The marinade is where the magic of Chicken 65 begins. Yogurt serves as the base, helping to tenderize the chicken while also providing a creamy texture that balances the spices. Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and ginger garlic paste form the foundation of the flavor profile, giving the chicken its signature spiciness and warmth. The marinade also includes salt and sugar, which help to balance out the heat while adding depth to the dish.

Lemon juice adds a refreshing, tangy element to the marinade, brightening up the dish and cutting through the richness of the fried chicken. Marinating the chicken for at least an hour (or overnight for maximum flavor) ensures that the spices penetrate the meat, allowing the chicken to absorb all the flavors before frying.

Garnishes and Final Touches

The final garnishes of fried curry leaves, green chilies, and garlic are what make Chicken 65 stand out. Curry leaves, a staple in South Indian cuisine, add a distinctive fragrance and a mild bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, spicy chicken. The green chilies provide an extra level of heat and a touch of freshness. The garlic adds an aromatic, savory note that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Once the chicken is fried and coated in the garlic, curry leaf, and chili mixture, it’s ready to be served. A light sprinkle of black pepper enhances the spiciness, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a burst of citrusy brightness that ties everything together. The result is a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for serving as an appetizer or with naan or rice.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken 65 can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion. As a starter or snack, it’s delicious on its own, served with a dipping sauce like raita or a tangy tamarind chutney to cool off the heat. You can also pair it with naan or steamed rice for a more substantial meal.

For a more casual gathering, serve Chicken 65 on a platter, garnished with fresh curry leaves and sliced green chilies for a pop of color and added flavor. This dish is perfect for sharing, as the individual pieces make it easy to enjoy with friends and family. It also makes an excellent addition to a larger spread of Indian appetizers, such as samosas, pakoras, or vegetable fritters.

Why Chicken 65 Is So Popular

Chicken 65 has earned its status as a beloved dish for several reasons. First, its bold flavors and crispy texture make it incredibly satisfying to eat. The combination of spices, tangy yogurt, and fried chicken creates a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors that people can’t get enough of. The use of curry leaves and green chilies adds an authentic touch that gives the dish its unique character and makes it stand out from other fried chicken recipes.

Additionally, Chicken 65 is highly customizable. While the traditional version focuses on the classic combination of spices and fried chicken, you can add ingredients like crispy bacon, caramelized onions, or pickles to tailor the dish to your personal preferences. These variations allow you to experiment with different flavors while staying true to the dish’s roots.

Another reason for its popularity is its versatility. Chicken 65 can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or even as a main course. It’s a favorite at parties and gatherings, and its bold flavors make it a hit with anyone who loves spicy food. Whether you’re serving it at a casual dinner or a festive occasion, Chicken 65 is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Nutritional Information

Chicken 65 offers a balanced combination of protein and flavor, making it both satisfying and flavorful. With approximately 280–320 calories per serving, it’s a relatively light option, especially considering the richness of the fried chicken. The protein content is high, thanks to the boneless chicken thighs, which are not only flavorful but also provide a good amount of lean protein. The fat content comes from the frying process, but the use of boneless chicken thighs ensures a juicier, more flavorful bite.

Although Chicken 65 is a slightly indulgent snack, it is still packed with nutritional benefits, including protein, essential vitamins, and minerals from the spices and herbs. If you’re concerned about the calories or fat, you can always adjust the frying method, such as opting for air frying or grilling the chicken for a healthier alternative.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken 65 is a bold, flavorful, and crispy appetizer that brings the vibrant tastes of South India to your table. With its spiced marinade, crispy coating, and fragrant garnishes, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether served as a starter, party snack, or main dish, Chicken 65 is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s packed with authentic Indian flavors. Its perfect balance of heat, tang, and savory goodness makes it a must-try for anyone who enjoys spicy food. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the fryer, and enjoy this crispy, spicy treat that will transport your taste buds straight to South India.