Indian cuisine continues to hog the limelight on global platforms. For instance, one of India’s most prized dishes, Chicken 65, has moved into the top 10 best–fried chicken list in the world as per Taste Atlas’s updated lists for December 2024. It reached a third position and continued to hold this position at the global arena.
Chicken 65: A South Indian Delight
Known for its deep-fried texture and bold flavours, Chicken 65 originated from South India, long a staple in street food and home kitchens. The Taste Atlas describes the dish as “deep-fried chicken marinated in ginger, lemon, red chiles, and a variety of other spices,” which gives it the taste. Although its exact origin is disputed, the most popular source traces the dish back to Tamil Nadu in the 1960s.
This recognition isn’t new for Chicken 65, as it also ranked 10th in Taste Atlas’ 2023 list of the best fried chicken dishes. However, the 2024 ranking sees it rise significantly, reflecting its growing international appeal.
Asian Fried Chicken Dominates the List
The latest list curated by Taste Atlas is dominated by fried chicken dishes from across Asia, with Korean Fried Chicken (Chikin) taking the top spot, followed by Karaage, a Japanese fried chicken. Ayam Goreng, which was previously number one, now holds the fifth position. Other popular Asian dishes that made it to the top 10 include Chinese Crispy Fried Chicken (Zhaziji), Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, and Indonesian Ayam Penyet.
A Global Appreciation for Indian Cuisine
The rise of Chicken 65 in global food rankings underscores the growing appreciation for Indian cuisine, particularly South Indian dishes, outside of India. Its recent surge in popularity highlights the increasing recognition of Indian street food as an international culinary delight.
This ranking follows Taste Atlas’ recent release of its 50 Best Bean Dishes list, which also garnered attention among Indian food enthusiasts, with Rajma securing the 14th position in November 2024.
With Chicken 65 continuing to win hearts around the world, Indian cuisine is undoubtedly taking its place at the global food table.
Quick and Easy Chicken 65 Recipe
Chicken 65 is a crispy, spicy South Indian dish that’s perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 600g boneless chicken (or 1kg bone-in)
- 1½ tsp red chili powder, ¼ tsp turmeric, 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste, 4 tbsp yogurt, 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 sprigs curry leaves, 4-6 green chilies (for tempering)
- 4 tbsp cornstarch, 2 tbsp rice flour, 1 egg white (for coating)
Steps:
- Marinate: Mix chicken with salt, spices, ginger garlic paste, yogurt, and lemon juice. Refrigerate for 1-36 hours.
- Coat: Add cornstarch, rice flour, and egg or yogurt to the chicken. Mix until coated.
- Fry: Heat oil in a deep pan. Fry chicken for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Tempering (optional): Fry garlic, curry leaves, and green chilies. Mix with chili paste and toss with chicken.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh curry leaves and green chilies. Serve hot with rice or as an appetizer.
