This Air Fryer Chicken 65 delivers everything you love about the iconic South Indian dish — spicy, crispy, tangy — without the deep frying. Perfect as a snack, starter, or side, it’s a bold-flavored favorite with a healthier twist.
Yields: 2-3 servings
Prep time: 30 minutes (including marination)
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Why You’ll Love It:
- Deep-fried flavor without the oil
- Packed with bold, spicy, tangy flavor
- Perfect party snack, appetizer, or rice pairing
- Gluten-free option with gram flour or cornstarch
- Can be made in advance and reheated
Ingredients:
- 250g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tbsp yogurt (plain, thick)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp cornflour
- 1 tbsp rice flour
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp cooking oil, for brushing
For Tempering (Optional):
- 1 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 sprig of curry leaves
- 1-2 dried red chilies, broken into pieces
- 1/2 tsp mustard seeds
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Marinade.
- In a bowl, add the chicken pieces, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, black pepper powder, yogurt, lemon juice, cornflour, rice flour, and salt.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients Well.
- Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that each piece of chicken is well coated with the marinade.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer.
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Arrange Chicken in the Air Fryer Basket.
- Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. You may need to cook in batches.
Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken.
- Air fry for 10 minutes. Then, open the basket and lightly brush the chicken pieces with the remaining oil. Flip the chicken pieces.
Step 7: Continue Air Frying.
- Continue air frying for another 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).
Step 8: Prepare Tempering (Optional).
- While the chicken is cooking (or after), prepare the tempering. In a small pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add curry leaves and dried red chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
Step 9: Serve.
- Transfer the air-fried chicken to a serving plate. Pour the tempering (if using) over the chicken. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves or lemon wedges if desired. Serve hot as a snack or appetizer.
💡 Pro Tips
✔ Extra crispy? Add 1 tbsp rice flour to the marinade.
✔ No yogurt? Use buttermilk or 1 tbsp vinegar + 2 tbsp cream.
✔ Less spicy? Reduce chili powder and add 1 tsp honey for balance.
🍽 Serving Ideas
- As an appetizer: Skewer with bell peppers and serve with raita.
- Bowl style: Over turmeric rice with cucumber salad.
- Hyderabad twist: Toss in red food color + extra chili oil for classic “65” vibes.
📊 Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: ~280 | Protein: 30g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 8g
Enjoy your delicious homemade Air Fryer Chicken 65!
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