Introduction
Chicken 65 is a popular and delectable South Indian dish that has won the hearts of food enthusiasts across the globe. Known for its fiery spices and irresistible flavor, this dish is perfect as a starter or snack. In this detailed recipe, we will guide you through the steps to create the perfect Chicken 65 at home, allowing you to savor the authentic taste in the comfort of your kitchen.
Ingredients (for 4 servings)
- 500g boneless chicken pieces
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 2 tablespoons cornflour
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon curry leaves, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Oil for deep frying
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Marination Process
- Prep the Chicken: Cut the boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces. Wash and drain excess water.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Ensure the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate for at least 1-2 hours, or you can refrigerate it overnight for enhanced flavor.
Coating Mixture
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine cornflour, all-purpose flour, cumin powder, coriander powder, and chopped curry leaves.
- Coat the Chicken: After marination, add the coating mixture to the marinated chicken. Mix well, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. The coating provides that irresistible crispy texture.
Frying Process
- Heat Oil: In a deep pan or kadai, heat oil for deep frying. Ensure the oil is hot enough for a crispy texture but not smoking.
- Fry the Chicken: Gently drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken pieces from the oil and place them on absorbent paper to drain excess oil.
Finishing Touches
- Enhance Flavor: Drizzle lemon juice over the fried chicken for that zesty kick. Toss the chicken to ensure the lemony goodness is evenly distributed.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top for a burst of freshness and color.
Serve and Enjoy
Your homemade Chicken 65 is now ready to be served! This tantalizing dish pairs perfectly with mint chutney or a side of onion rings. Serve it hot, and watch as the crispy exterior and succulent interior captivate your taste buds.
Conclusion
Chicken 65 is not just a dish; it’s a culinary adventure that brings the vibrant flavors of South India to your dining table. With its aromatic spices and crispy texture, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Chicken 65 at home, get ready to indulge in the savory delight that has become a timeless favorite in the world of Indian cuisine.
