Chicken 65 Air Fryer Recipe: Crispy, Spicy, and Guilt-Free!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Craving a crispy, spicy, and flavorful chicken snack without deep-frying? Chicken 65 in an air fryer is your perfect solution! This classic Indian dish, known for its bold spices and crunchy texture, gets a healthier twist with air frying. You’ll enjoy all the flavors and crispiness of traditional Indian chicken starters without the excess oil. Whether you’re a fan of chicken 65 Indian food or just looking for a new recipe, this air fryer version will be a game changer.
What is Chicken 65?
Chicken 65 is a popular South Indian dish made with bite-sized pieces of marinated chicken, deep-fried to golden perfection. It’s often served as a starter or appetizer in Indian restaurants. Traditionally, it’s deep-fried, but with an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispiness with minimal oil.
Why Make Chicken 65 in an Air Fryer?
- Healthier Alternative: Significantly less oil than deep-frying.
- Crispy Perfection: Achieves a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside juicy.
- Quick & Easy: Cooks faster than conventional methods.
- Less Mess: No splattering oil or deep-frying hassle.
Ingredients Needed
To make air fryer Chicken 65, gather the following ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 500g boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tbsp yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp rice flour (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tbsp oil (for coating)
- Salt to taste
- Curry leaves (for garnish)
- Green chilies (optional for extra spice)
For the Air Frying Process:
- Cooking spray or a light brush of oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin powder, salt, and oil.
- Add cornstarch and rice flour to the mixture to give the chicken a crispy coating.
- Add the chicken pieces and mix well, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
- Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (preferably overnight for maximum flavor).
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to ensure even cooking.
- Once golden brown and crispy, remove and set aside.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch
- In a small pan, heat a little oil and sauté curry leaves and green chilies for extra flavor.
- Toss the crispy chicken 65 in the tempered curry leaves before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with mint chutney or garlic mayo dip.
- Pair with naan, paratha, or steamed rice.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken 65
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in batches for even crispiness.
- Adjust spice levels: Increase or reduce red chili powder based on preference.
- Marinate longer: Enhances flavor absorption.
- Use rice flour: Adds an extra crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Adjust the cooking time to 18-20 minutes to ensure thorough cooking.
What can I substitute for rice flour?
Cornstarch alone works, but rice flour enhances crispiness.
Is Chicken 65 very spicy?
It has a moderate spice level, but you can adjust by reducing the chili powder.
Can I make Chicken 65 in the oven instead?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.
Conclusion
Making Chicken 65 in an air fryer is a game-changer! You get a healthy, crispy, and flavorful dish without the extra oil. Whether you’re preparing this for a party or a quick snack, this method makes cooking Indian chicken starters effortless. Try this today, and don’t forget to share your experience!
