Are you craving a delicious, flavorful, and incredibly easy Indian dish? Look no further! This Chicken 65 recipe is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant addition to your weekend meal plan. It's a popular South Indian starter known for its fiery kick and addictive crispy texture. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly simple, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks looking for a healthy and delicious meal. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (or more, to taste)
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp black pepper powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, black pepper powder, and salt. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. Marinating is key to achieving tender and flavorful chicken.
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Heat the Oil: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the hot oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
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Add Lemon Juice: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the lemon juice. This adds a bright, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the spices.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. This dish is excellent as an appetizer, a main course with rice or naan, or even as part of a larger Indian feast.
Tips for the Best Chicken 65:
- Don't Skip the Marinating: Marinating the chicken in yogurt tenderizes the meat and allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ginger, garlic, and cilantro will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Include chopped onions, bell peppers, or peas for added texture and nutrition. Add these vegetables along with the chicken during the cooking process.
- Make it Dry: For an extra dry and crispy texture, increase the cooking time slightly and reduce the amount of oil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Chicken 65 recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s a great example of how delicious and easy homemade cooking can be. Enjoy this flavorful journey into the world of easy Indian food recipes. This healthy and quick dinner idea is sure to become a family favorite!