Introduction:
Chicken 65, a popular South Indian appetizer, is renowned for its tantalizing blend of spices, crispy texture, and succulent pieces of chicken. Originating from Chennai, this dish has gained widespread popularity across the Indian subcontinent and beyond. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the art of preparing Chicken 65 in authentic South Indian style, revealing the secret behind its irresistible flavor and crispy exterior.
- Gather Your Ingredients: To prepare Chicken 65, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Red chili powder
- Turmeric powder
- Coriander powder
- Garam masala
- Cornflour or rice flour
- Curd (yogurt)
- Curry leaves
- Green chilies
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Oil for deep frying
- Optional: food coloring (red or orange) for vibrant color
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Add a tablespoon of yogurt to tenderize the chicken and ensure the spices coat each piece evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix cornflour or rice flour with a pinch of salt and a dash of red chili powder for added heat. The flour coating helps create a crispy exterior while locking in the juices of the chicken.
- Fry to Perfection: Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadhai over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces, ensuring they are not overcrowded in the pan. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally for even cooking. Remove the chicken from the oil and drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Prepare the Tempering: In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil and add curry leaves and slit green chilies. Sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn the leaves. This tempering adds a burst of flavor and aroma to the Chicken 65.
- Toss in the Chicken: Once the tempering is ready, add the fried chicken pieces to the pan and toss them gently to coat them with the aromatic tempering. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a tangy kick and garnish with chopped coriander leaves for freshness.
- Serve Hot and Enjoy: Transfer the Chicken 65 to a serving platter and serve hot with sliced onions, lemon wedges, and mint chutney. The crispy exterior and tender, flavorful chicken make it a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion.
Conclusion: Preparing Chicken 65 in authentic South Indian style is a culinary adventure that celebrates the vibrant flavors and rich heritage of the region. With the right blend of spices, tender chicken, and crispy coating, you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen and delight your family and friends with its irresistible taste. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and embark on a gastronomic journey that pays homage to the culinary legacy of South India.