365Telugu.com online news, March 13th, 2025: Chicken 65 is an iconic and spicy appetizer that has made its mark in the culinary world, especially in South India. It is renowned for its unique blend of spices and crispy texture. But there’s more to Chicken 65 than just its mouth-watering taste. Here are 10 interesting, lesser-known facts about this delicious dish:
The Origin of Chicken 65
Chicken 65 was first introduced in 1965 at Hotel Buhari in Chennai, India. It was created by the restaurant’s chef, who wanted to make a spicy chicken dish that would be perfect as an appetizer. The dish became so popular that it was named after the year of its creation — 1965. Hence, Chicken 65 was born!
Why the Name “65”?
The number “65” in the name of this dish has sparked many debates over the years. While most people think it’s simply because it was created in 1965, others claim that “65” refers to the number of ingredients used in the recipe or even the number of days it was marinated. However, the most widely accepted explanation is that it represents the year the dish was first introduced.
A Spice Lover’s Paradise
Chicken 65 is not just famous for its crispy texture, but also its complex and flavorful spice blend. It includes a variety of ingredients such as chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, garlic, garam masala, cinnamon, cardamom, black pepper, fennel seeds, mustard seeds, salt, lemon juice, yogurt, vinegar, tamarind paste, curry leaves, and sometimes even food coloring. The combination of these spices gives the dish its signature bold flavor.
Nutritional Powerhouse
A serving of Chicken 65 offers a high protein content, typically ranging between 20 to 25 grams of protein per serving. With around 10 to 25 grams of fat, it’s a flavorful treat that packs in essential nutrients. However, due to its deep-fried preparation, it is also high in calories, making it more of an indulgent snack or appetizer.
Perfect Pairing with Biryani
Although Chicken 65 is delicious on its own, it’s often served alongside Biryani. The spiciness of the chicken complements the rich, fragrant flavors of the Biryani, making for a satisfying combination. This pairing has become so popular that many restaurants feature it as part of their special meal deals.
Vegetarian Variants
The popularity of Chicken 65 has led to the creation of vegetarian versions, such as “Paneer 65” and “Gobhi 65” (cauliflower 65). These versions use paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or cauliflower as a substitute for chicken while retaining the same delicious and spicy flavor profile. These vegetarian variants have become favorites among non-meat eaters.
Deep-Fried Perfection
The classic method of cooking Chicken 65 involves deep-frying marinated chicken pieces until they are crisp and golden. The crispy coating adds to the appeal, while the juicy inside balances out the texture. The dish’s deep-fried nature makes it irresistible for those craving something spicy and crunchy.
Fusion with Indo-Chinese Flavors
Chicken 65 has its roots in South Indian cuisine but is often thought to have been influenced by Chinese culinary techniques. It’s a prime example of Indo-Chinese fusion cuisine, which blends traditional Indian spices with Chinese-style cooking methods. This unique combination gives Chicken 65 its bold and complex flavor profile.
Menu Evolution
After the success of Chicken 65, Hotel Buhari didn’t stop there. They introduced other variations like Chicken 78, Chicken 82, and Chicken 90. Each of these dishes was named after the year it was added to the menu. Chicken 65, however, remains the most popular and is still the dish that defines the restaurant’s reputation.
Global Reach
What started as a regional delicacy in South India has now gained international recognition. Chicken 65 has found its place on menus across the globe, inspiring countless adaptations. Its spicy and savory nature appeals to food lovers worldwide, making it a must-try for anyone exploring Indian cuisine.