Chicken 65 is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, particularly in the South Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The dish is made with bite-sized pieces of chicken that are marinated in a blend of spices and then deep-fried. In this article, we will explore the origins of the name Chicken 65 and the various theories surrounding it.

Origins of the Name

There are several theories about the origins of the name Chicken 65. One popular theory is that the dish was created in 1965 at the Buhari Hotel in Chennai, India. According to this theory, the dish was added to the menu in celebration of India’s 1965 war with Pakistan.

Another theory is that the name Chicken 65 comes from the number of days that the chicken is marinated in the spices before being cooked. This theory suggests that the dish was originally made with 65 different spices, although this is unlikely as the dish typically uses a much smaller number of spices.

Yet another theory is that the name Chicken 65 comes from the fact that the dish was the 65th item on a menu at a restaurant in Chennai. This theory is less commonly accepted than the others.

Theories Surrounding the Spices

Regardless of the origin of the name, the spices used in Chicken 65 are an important part of the dish. The specific blend of spices can vary depending on the region and the recipe used.

Some recipes call for a blend of spices that includes cumin, coriander, chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala. Others include additional spices such as ginger, garlic, and fennel seeds.

The spices used in Chicken 65 are believed to have several health benefits. For example, turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties, while cumin and coriander are believed to aid digestion.

Variations of the Dish

While Chicken 65 is typically made with chicken, there are variations of the dish that use other meats, such as mutton or fish. Vegetarian versions of the dish can also be made using paneer, a type of Indian cheese.

There are also variations of the dish that are served as appetizers, such as Chicken 65 poppers or Chicken 65 sliders.

Conclusion

Chicken 65 is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, particularly in the South Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The origins of the name are unclear, but several theories exist. Regardless of the origin of the name, the dish is made with a blend of spices that are believed to have health benefits. Variations of the dish exist, including versions made with other meats or vegetarian ingredients, as well as appetizer versions such as poppers or sliders.