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!

Chicken 65
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
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Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
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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.
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Mix well so the chicken is coated evenly.
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Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Fry the Chicken
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Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
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Once hot, add the marinated chicken in batches.
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Fry until the pieces are crispy and cooked through.
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Remove and drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Gravy
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In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, chili sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, red food color (optional), black pepper, and salt.
Cook the Gravy
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In a large pan or wok, pour the prepared gravy mixture.
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Heat on medium, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Make the Tempering (Tarka)
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In a small pan, heat oil.
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Add chopped garlic, green chilies, dried red chilies, and curry leaves.
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Sauté for a minute or two until fragrant.
Combine Everything
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Add the fried chicken pieces to the gravy.
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Pour the tempering over the chicken.
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Toss well so everything is evenly coated.
Serve Hot
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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.
