Spicy Chicken 65 is a popular and flavorful Indian appetizer that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. This dish is known for its crispy texture and fiery flavor, making it the perfect starter for any meal or party. With a blend of spices, yogurt, and tender chicken pieces, this recipe offers a delightful taste experience that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something spicy, this Chicken 65 recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients
- 500 grams of boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for deep frying
- Curry leaves for garnish
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to ensure that all the chicken pieces are coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for the best flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and all-purpose flour together. This mixture will give the chicken its crispy texture when fried. After the chicken has marinated, take each piece and coat it evenly with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a deep frying pan or kadhai, heat enough oil over medium heat for deep frying. To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the coated chicken into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken and drain it on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once all the chicken is fried, garnish with fresh curry leaves and coriander leaves. Serve hot with a side of mint chutney or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious start to your meal.
FAQs
What is Chicken 65?
Chicken 65 is a spicy, deep-fried chicken dish that originated in South India. It is known for its bold flavors and crispy texture, making it a popular appetizer or snack.
Can I bake Chicken 65 instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake Chicken 65 for a healthier version. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
What can I serve with Chicken 65?
Chicken 65 pairs well with mint chutney, yogurt sauce, or any spicy dipping sauce. It can also be served with a side salad or as part of a larger Indian meal.
Can I use chicken with bones for this recipe?
While boneless chicken is commonly used for Chicken 65, you can use bone-in pieces as well. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
How can I make Chicken 65 less spicy?
To reduce the spiciness, you can decrease the amount of red chili powder in the marinade. You can also serve it with a cooling yogurt sauce to balance the heat.