Introduction:

 

Ah, Chicken 65, a dish that holds a special place in my culinary journey. Let me take you back to a bustling street in Chennai, where the tantalizing aroma of spices filled the air, drawing me closer to a humble food stall. It was there, amidst the chaos of the market, that I first encountered the irresistible allure of Chicken 65. The crispy, golden-brown exterior, infused with a medley of spices, beckoned me to take a bite. From that moment on, I was hooked. Chicken 65 became more than just a dish—it became a culinary obsession, a quest to recreate that perfect blend of flavors in my own kitchen. And now, dear friends, I'm delighted to share my rendition of this beloved recipe with you.

 

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Ingredients of Chicken 65

 

• 500 gms Chicken with bone, diced
• 1 tsp Salt, or to taste
• 1 tsp Red Chilli Powder
• 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tsp Garam Masala Powder
• 1 Lemon
• 1 tbsp Ginger Garlic Paste
• 1 tsp Black Pepper Powder
• 1 tbsp Corn Flour
• 1 Egg
• ½ cup Rice Flour

For the Masala:

• 2 tbsp Curd
• 2 tsp Rice Flour
• 2 tsp Chilli Paste
• 1 tsp Chilli Powder
• 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
• 1 tsp Salt

For Tossing:

• 1 tbsp Coconut Oil
• 1 Whole Red Chilli
• 1 tsp Chopped Garlic
• 1 tsp Chopped Ginger
• 2 Green Chillies, slit
• 1 tbsp Curry Leaves
• 1 tsp Black Pepper Powder
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tsp Chilli Paste

 

Instructions of Chicken 65

 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine diced chicken with salt, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, and coriander powder.

Step 2: Add Flavorings
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken. Add ginger garlic paste and mix well.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Add black pepper powder, corn flour, one beaten egg, and rice flour to the chicken mixture. Sprinkle some water to ensure the flour coats the chicken evenly.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet. Deep fry the chicken in hot oil until crispy and fully cooked. Drain the fried chicken on a paper towel and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Masala Paste
In a small bowl, mix together curd, chilli paste, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, salt, and rice flour to create the masala paste.

Step 6: Toss the Chicken in Masala
In a hot wok, add coconut oil. Toss in the whole red chilli, chopped garlic, chopped ginger, slit green chillies, curry leaves, black pepper, salt, 2 tablespoons of the prepared masala paste, and red chilli paste.

Step 7: Final Tossing
Add the crispy fried chicken to the wok and toss it well to coat the chicken evenly with the masala mixture.

Step 8: Serve
Serve the Chicken 65 hot and enjoy its spicy, flavorful goodness.

 

 

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About the Recipe:

 

Chicken 65 is a South Indian delicacy renowned for its fiery flavor and irresistible crunch. This iconic dish is believed to have originated in Chennai, where it quickly gained popularity for its bold spices and mouthwatering taste. The main ingredient, succulent chicken pieces, is marinated in a vibrant blend of spices, including chili powder, turmeric, and curry leaves, before being deep-fried to crispy perfection. The addition of egg in the marinade adds an extra layer of richness and texture, making each bite a symphony of flavors. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, Chicken 65 is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

1. Spice it Up: Don't shy away from the spices—embrace the bold flavors of chili powder, turmeric, and ginger-garlic paste to elevate the taste of your Chicken 65.
2. Perfect Marinade: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to ensure maximum flavor absorption.
3. Frying Technique: When frying the chicken, maintain a consistent oil temperature to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside.
4. Tempering Technique: The final tempering of curry leaves, green chilies, and garlic adds a burst of freshness and aroma to the dish. Be sure not to skip this step!
5. Garnish with Style: Serve your Chicken 65 garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, sliced onions, and lemon wedges for a vibrant and inviting presentation.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

Pair your Chicken 65 with refreshing accompaniments to balance out its bold flavors and heat. Here are a few suggestions to complement this spicy delight:

 

• Cooling Beverages: Serve alongside a tall glass of lassi, a refreshing mango smoothie, or a crisp, chilled beer to quench your thirst.
• Creamy Dips: Pair with mint yogurt sauce, tangy tamarind chutney, or creamy garlic aioli for a delectable dipping experience.
• Crunchy Side Dishes: Balance out the richness of Chicken 65 with crunchy cucumber salad, crispy papadums, or golden-brown onion bhajis.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken 65:

 

1. What is Chicken 65?
   • Chicken 65 is a spicy South Indian dish made with marinated chicken pieces, deep-fried to crispy perfection, and tempered with curry leaves and green chilies.
2. What spices are used in Chicken 65?
   • The marinade typically includes chili powder, turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, and other spices like cumin and coriander for added flavor.
3. Can I make Chicken 65 without egg?
   • While the addition of egg helps to bind the marinade and adds richness, you can omit it if preferred. However, the texture may be slightly different.
4. How long should I marinate the chicken for Chicken 65?
   • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, but for best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
5. Is Chicken 65 spicy?
   • Yes, Chicken 65 is known for its spicy flavor profile. Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies according to your preference for heat.
6. Can I bake Chicken 65 instead of frying it?
   • While traditionally deep-fried, you can bake Chicken 65 in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.
7. What is the purpose of tempering in Chicken 65?
   • Tempering with curry leaves, green chilies, and garlic adds a final layer of flavor and aroma to the dish, enhancing its overall taste.
8. Can I use boneless chicken for Chicken 65?
   • Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breast meat for Chicken 65. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
9. What can I serve with Chicken 65?
   • Chicken 65 pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, including rice, naan bread, or as a standalone appetizer with dipping sauces.
10. Is Chicken 65 gluten-free?
    • The recipe itself is gluten-free, but be cautious of any additional ingredients or coatings that may contain gluten. Always check labels for allergen information.

 

There you have it—everything you need to know to master the art of making Chicken 65 like a pro. Happy cooking!

 

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