Crispy Chicken 65 is a vibrant and zesty dish known for its unique flavors and origins in the southern part of India. Packed with spices and a tantalizing crunch, this recipe offers a feast for the senses, blending traditional Indian culinary techniques with a modern twist. Here’s how you can bring this restaurant-style Chicken 65 into your own kitchen, ensuring each bite is as delectable as it is memorable.
Ingredients
To make authentic Crispy Chicken 65, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken breast, 500 grams (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons
- Ginger-garlic paste, 1 tablespoon
- Red chili powder, 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt, to taste
- Curry leaves, 10-12
- Green chilies, 3 (slit)
- Mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon
- Cornstarch, 3 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon
- Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon
- Red food coloring, a pinch (optional)
- Cooking oil, for deep frying
- Fresh cilantro, 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, salt, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly.
- Add the cornstarch and all-purpose flour to ensure the chicken is well-coated.
- If desired, add a pinch of red food coloring for that iconic vibrant color.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
- Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 3: Seasoning the Fried Chicken
- In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of oil.
- Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
- Toss in the curry leaves and green chilies, frying briefly until aromatic.
- Add the fried chicken back into the pan and toss everything together for an extra minute.
Tips and Variations
- Achieving Crispiness: The trick to getting crispy chicken lies in the use of cornstarch and proper heat control while frying. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to avoid sogginess.
- Variations: For a saucier version, you can quickly whip up a gravy by sautéing some onions, additional ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, and a bit of tomato paste before adding water to reach your desired consistency. Toss the fried chicken in this gravy just before serving.
- Substitutions: If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or another gluten-free alternative.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 150g):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g (2g saturated)
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sodium: 580mg
Crispy Chicken 65 is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of India. Whether you’re serving it dry as a snack with slices of onion and lemon wedges or as a hearty meal with rice and gravy, Chicken 65 remains a versatile and irresistible option. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the levels of spices and the cooking methods to tailor it to your liking.