Chicken 65

Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate
A spicy and crispy South Indian chicken starter tossed in a flavorful gravy and finished with aromatic tempering.
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Chicken 65 is one of India’s most iconic and flavorful appetizers — beloved for its crispy texture, spicy marinade, and aromatic tempering. Originally created in South India, Chicken 65 has become popular in restaurants and street food stalls across the country and abroad. Its fiery flavors and bold colors make it the perfect starter for any gathering, bringing family and friends together to enjoy bites packed with punchy spices. This version includes a delicious yogurt-based gravy and aromatic tarka, adding layers of flavor that will make your taste buds dance. Click on the link below to access the full Instagram Recipe!

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 30 mins Total Time 1 hr 20 mins
Calories: 300–350
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Chicken 65 is a restaurant-style fried chicken dish marinated with spices, yogurt, and herbs. It’s fried until golden and then tossed in a tangy yogurt-chili sauce with garlic, green chilies, and curry leaves. This appetizer is a crowd favorite — perfect for parties or weekend dinners!

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade:

Gravy:

For Tarka (Tempering):

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, add chicken, garlic paste, yogurt, black pepper, chili flakes, paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder, coriander powder, salt, egg, cornstarch, red food color (optional), oil, and lemon juice.
  3. Mix well so the chicken is coated evenly.
  4. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
  2. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in batches.
  3. Fry until the pieces are crispy and cooked through.
  4. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Gravy

  1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, chili sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, red food color (optional), black pepper, and salt.

Cook the Gravy

  1. In a large pan or wok, pour the prepared gravy mixture.
  2. Heat on medium, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Make the Tempering (Tarka)

  1. In a small pan, heat oil.
  2. Add chopped garlic, green chilies, dried red chilies, and curry leaves.
  3. Sauté for a minute or two until fragrant.

Combine Everything

  1. Add the fried chicken pieces to the gravy.
  2. Pour the tempering over the chicken.
  3. Toss well so everything is evenly coated.

Serve Hot

  1. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with extra curry leaves or chilies if you like, and enjoy this spicy, crispy Chicken 65 while it’s fresh and hot!

Nutrition Facts


Amount Per Serving
Calories 350kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
Sugars 5g
Protein 25g50%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: chicken 65, Indian appetizer, spicy chicken, fried chicken, party starter
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or air fry until crispy for a lighter version.

How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce the chili flakes and skip the red food color if desired — you’ll still have great flavor!

What can I serve Chicken 65 with?

It’s delicious on its own or with fried rice, noodles, or as a starter before a full Indian meal.

 

Can I make it ahead of time?

Marinate the chicken a day ahead for more flavor. Fry and toss with the gravy just before serving for best texture.

Why is it called Chicken 65?

The origin of the name is debated! Some say it was the 65th dish on a restaurant menu, others claim it was invented in 1965.

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