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There’s a certain thrill that comes from introducing a new dish to the family dinner table, especially when it’s as vibrant as Chicken 65. I first encountered this South Indian treasure during a vibrant street food tour, where the tantalizing aroma of spicy fried chicken wafted through the air and beckoned me closer. With crispy edges, succulent meat, and a beautiful fiery hue, this iconic dish promised an explosion of flavors that instantly captivated my taste buds.

This recipe captures the essence of Chicken 65, allowing you to recreate that authentic restaurant experience at home. With its perfect balance of spices and a crunchy coating, it’s not just an appetizer but a versatile meal option that will have everyone begging for seconds. Whether served as a snack or paired with naan for a hearty dinner, this dish is guaranteed to banish the blandness of fast food nights. So, roll up your sleeves as we dive into this quick, easy, and utterly delicious journey into South Indian cuisine!

Why Is Chicken 65 So Irresistible?

Bold flavors await you with every bite of Chicken 65, crafted from traditional South Indian spices that create a vibrant taste experience. Easy to prepare, this recipe doesn’t require expert culinary skills — perfect for home cooks wanting to impress. Crispy texture meets juicy chicken, making it a hit at parties or family gatherings. Versatile serving options allow you to enjoy it as an appetizer, snack, or main course. If you’re craving something unique, explore more South Indian delights to elevate your cooking repertoire!

Ingredients for Chicken 65

• Get ready to savor the spicy goodness!

For the Marinade

Boneless Chicken – Use thighs or breasts for the juiciest results.
Kashmiri Chili Powder – Adds vibrant color and a mild, flavorful heat; substitute with paprika for a gentler taste.
Yogurt – Essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding depth to the marinade.
Garlic – Freshly grated is recommended to enhance the flavor profile.
Ginger – Also freshly grated; brings warmth to the dish.
Vinegar – Provides tanginess; can be swapped with lemon juice for a fresh, zesty note.
Soy Sauce – Introduces umami and saltiness; opt for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free choice.
Salt – Enhances the flavor of all ingredients used.

For the Coating

Rice Flour – Ensures a delightful crispy texture; cornstarch can be used as a substitute if needed.

For Frying

Curry Leaves – Fry them for an authentic South Indian aroma that elevates the dish.
Water – Adjusts the marinade consistency as necessary.

For the Sauce

Sweet Chili Sauce – Balances the spice; substitute by mixing ketchup, honey, and chili flakes, if desired.

This Chicken 65 recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of South India, showcasing a perfect blend of flavors and textures!

How to Make Chicken 65

Marinate Chicken: Start by combining boneless chicken with yogurt, Kashmiri chili powder, freshly grated garlic, ginger, vinegar, soy sauce, and salt. Let this marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for an even deeper flavor.
Prepare Coating: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the rice flour and any additional spices you’d like for added flavor. This creates the perfect crispy coating for the chicken.
Heat Oil: In a deep frying pan, pour in enough oil for frying (about 2-3 inches deep) and heat it over medium-high. You’ll know it’s ready when a small drop of batter sizzles upon contact with the oil.
Coat Chicken: Dredge the marinated chicken pieces in the rice flour mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated for that crunchy texture.
Fry Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to drain them on paper towels.
Toss in Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the fried chicken with sweet chili sauce, a dash of vinegar, and crispy curry leaves. Toss well, and serve immediately to keep them delightfully crunchy.

Optional: Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh cilantro for an extra zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Chicken 65 Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Chicken 65 experience with these delightful twists!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a hearty indulgence. Both options soak up the marinade beautifully while adding a unique texture to the dish.
Spicy Kick: Boost the heat level by incorporating finely chopped green chilies into the marinade. This fiery twist will make your taste buds dance!
Herb Infusion: Mix in finely chopped mint or coriander leaves in the marinade for a refreshing herbal twist. It adds a new layer of flavor that complements the spices wonderfully.
Low-Carb Twist: Swap rice flour with almond flour for a keto-friendly alternative. This will also provide a subtle nuttiness to the crispy coating you won’t want to miss.
Extra Crunch: For an extra crunchy coating, mix crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs into the rice flour. This adds a delightful texture that contrasts with the juicy chicken inside.
Lemon Zing: Use lemon juice instead of vinegar in the marinade for a fresher, zesty flavor. It brightens up the dish and balances the spices beautifully!
Asian Fusion: Add a touch of sesame oil to the marinade for a unique fusion flavor. This subtle twist elevates the umami notes in the dish, perfect for adventurous palates.
Sweet and Savory: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving to complement the spiciness with a hint of sweetness. This contrast will surely leave a lasting impression on your guests!

What to Serve with Chicken 65?

Elevate your dining experience with mouthwatering side dishes that perfectly complement the spicy flavors of this South Indian delight.

Lemon Wedges:
Brighten up your plate with fresh lemon wedges. The citrus adds a zesty touch that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.
Sliced Onions:
Sharp and crunchy, sliced onions make a refreshing contrast to Chicken 65, enhancing every bite with their crisp texture and mild flavor.
Naan:
Soft, pillowy naan serves as an ideal scoop for that crispy Chicken 65, soaking up the delicious spices while making your meal feel complete.
Steamed Rice:
Fluffy steamed rice acts as a neutral base that balances the heat, letting the bold flavors of the Chicken 65 shine through without overwhelming your palate.
Raita:
This cooling yogurt-based condiment offers a creamy contrast to the spiciness, providing a refreshing dip that makes each bite a harmonious experience.
Coconut Chutney:
The mild sweetness of coconut chutney beautifully complements the heat, making it an excellent dipping sauce option to elevate your Chicken 65 serving.
Mint or Coriander Salad:
A fresh herb salad brings a bright burst of flavor that enhances the spiciness of Chicken 65, making your meal feel light and refreshing.
Masala Chai:
Pairing your meal with a cup of warm masala chai enriches the experience; its spices resonate well with the flavors of Chicken 65, creating a comforting finish.

Storage Tips for Chicken 65

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken 65 in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, do so before tossing in the sauce. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat directly from frozen for the best results.
Reheating: For optimal crispiness, reheat unfried chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, or pan-fry briefly without oil for a few minutes before serving.
Avoid Freezing Sauce: Do not freeze Chicken 65 once coated in sauce, as the coating may become soggy; always serve fresh for that delicious crunch.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken 65 (South Indian Restaurant-Style Recipe) bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate for a more robust taste. Simply combine the chicken with yogurt and spices, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can prepare the rice flour coating a day ahead for convenience. When it’s time to fry, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the coating and fry until golden brown. For optimal quality, toss the fried chicken in sauce just before serving to retain that mouthwatering crunch. These steps will make your busy weeknights so much easier, ensuring delicious results without the last-minute rush!

Expert Tips for Chicken 65

Marination Matters: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to develop deep flavors and tenderize the meat.
Perfect Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is coated evenly with the rice flour mixture; this is essential for achieving that signature crispy texture.
Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Frying in batches allows the chicken to cook thoroughly without steaming.
Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer or drop a small piece of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. This ensures the chicken fries perfectly.
Serve Fresh: For the best experience, toss the fried chicken in the sauce just before serving. Chicken 65 is best enjoyed hot and crispy!

Chicken 65 (South Indian Restaurant-Style Recipe) Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select chicken for Chicken 65?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, boneless thighs are ideal for their juicy texture, while boneless breasts can also be used for a leaner option. Look for fresh meat that has a pink hue with no dark spots; this indicates freshness and quality.

How should I store leftover Chicken 65?
To keep your Chicken 65 delicious, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 2 days. Make sure to allow it to cool before sealing to prevent moisture build-up, which can affect the texture.

Can Chicken 65 be frozen?
Yes! To freeze, lay the fried, uncoated chicken pieces on a baking sheet so they’re not touching. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method can keep them fresh for up to 3 months. Reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) without breading for the best texture.

How can I adjust the spice level in Chicken 65?
Very! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Kashmiri chili powder in the marinade. Additionally, incorporating chopped green bell peppers can add a colorful, mild touch. For those who love heat, consider adding more chili sauce.

Can I make Chicken 65 with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce, and ensure your sweet chili sauce adheres to your dietary needs. If you’re vegetarian, feel free to substitute the chicken with paneer, tofu, or even an assortment of hearty vegetables!

What should I do if the chicken isn’t crispy after frying?
If your Chicken 65 doesn’t turn out crispy, there might be excess moisture on the chicken. To fix this, ensure the chicken is well-coated in the rice flour mixture and fry small batches to avoid overcrowding. This helps achieve maximum crunchiness by allowing the hot oil to circulate freely around each piece.