The key to a juicy and flavorful Chicken 65 is in the marinade. Here’s how to get it just right:

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook uniformly and are easier to eat.

Add the Spices: In a mixing bowl, combine ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and coriander powder. These spices provide that deep, rich flavor and vibrant color.

Flavor Base: Add yogurt and a splash of lemon juice to tenderize the chicken while giving it a tangy kick.

Salt and Rest: Season with salt and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let it marinate for 1-2 hours for maximum flavor. This allows the spices to infuse deeply into the meat.

Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to coat it for that signature crispy crust:

Flour Coating: In a separate bowl, combine rice flour and cornflour. This is your secret to an extra-crispy texture. Gently toss the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.

Shake Off Excess: Shake off any excess flour, as too much coating can cause clumps when frying.

Now comes the fun part—frying the chicken to perfection:

Heat the Oil: Heat enough vegetable oil or sunflower oil in a deep frying pan to submerge the chicken pieces. The oil should be hot but not smoking—around 350°F (175°C) works best.

Fry in Batches: Carefully drop the chicken pieces into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for about 3-4 minutes until they turn golden and crispy.

Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Finally, let’s add some finishing touches to elevate your Chicken 65:

Fried Aromatics: In the same pan, heat a little oil and add curry leaves, dried red chilies, and garlic to fry them until crispy. These aromatics not only add flavor but also enhance the dish’s fragrance.

Toss the Chicken: Add the fried chicken back to the pan, tossing it gently with the aromatics until evenly coated.

Your crispy Chicken 65 is now ready to be served! You can garnish it with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it alongside your favorite dipping sauce or a tangy raita to balance the spice.