What are Chicken 65 Tenders?

Chicken 65 Tenders are the perfect combination of crispy and tender chicken, marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, and then fried to perfection. This recipe takes the traditional Chicken 65 to the next level by using chicken tenders, making it easy to eat and even more delicious! Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a show-stopping appetizer for your next dinner party, these tenders will hit the spot every single time.

Why I love this dish…

Let me take you back to the first time I had Chicken 65. I was at a friend’s party, and they served this crispy, golden chicken that was packed with flavor. I was hooked from the first bite! The spicy kick, the crispy exterior, and the juicy tenderness of the chicken, it was love at first taste. Since then, I’ve experimented with different ways to make it, and using chicken tenders has become my favorite. Not only do they cook faster, but the texture is just perfect.

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Key Flavor Components

The key to perfect Chicken 65 Tenders is in the spices and the marination. The ginger-garlic paste gives the chicken that aromatic base, while the red chili powder and turmeric give it that signature vibrant color and subtle heat. The garam masala, coriander powder, and cumin powder round out the flavor profile, bringing that rich Indian spice blend that makes Chicken 65 so unique. To top it off, a splash of lemon juice adds a tangy zing that really ties everything together. It’s crispy, spicy, aromatic, and completely addictive!

Jump to Recipe

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Ingredients List (4 Servings)

For the Marinade:

• 750g boneless chicken tenders (about 4 servings)
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tbsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 2 tbsp rice flour
• 4 tbsp corn flour
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• A handful of fresh curry leaves, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp oil (for marination)

For Frying:

• Oil for deep frying

For Tempering:

• 1-2 tbsp oil
• 5-6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• A few sprigs of curry leaves
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Method for Egg Butter Masala

Marinate the Chicken
Start by gathering all your marinade ingredients: ginger garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, coriander powder, cumin powder, rice flour, corn flour, salt, lemon juice, chopped curry leaves, and oil. In a large mixing bowl, combine everything and give it a good mix. Add the chicken tenders and make sure each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (but overnight is even better for maximum flavor).

Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is nice and hot, carefully drop in your marinated chicken tenders. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-6 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy. Remove the tenders from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.

Prepare the Tempering
In a separate pan, heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown. Then, add the slit green chilies and curry leaves, and cook for another minute. Sprinkle in the red chili powder and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together for a fragrant, spicy tempering.

Combine and Serve
Add your freshly fried chicken tenders to the tempering mixture and toss everything together, making sure the chicken is coated in the aromatic spices. Serve hot, garnished with extra curry leaves and a squeeze of lemon for that tangy punch.

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FAQ

Q: Can I make this healthier?
A: Yes! You can air fry the chicken tenders instead of deep frying. This will reduce the oil content while still keeping them crispy.

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
A: Absolutely! You can use chicken breast, all you have to do is slice them up the long way, but tenders are ideal for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy.

Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to keep the crispy texture.

Q: Can I make this spicier?
A: Yes, feel free to add more red chili powder or toss in extra green chilis or toss the chicken in a spicy sauce of your choice for an extra kick.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~587 kcal
• Protein: ~31g
• Fat: ~15g
• Carbs: ~15g
• Fiber: ~3g

Link to watch the video: https://www.instagram.com/amateurprochef/

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