Halal Certified
What Is Chicken 65? The Story Behind the Name
Quick answer: Chicken 65 is a spicy, deep-fried chicken starter from South India, marinated in chilli, ginger, garlic and spices and served dry. The name is most often traced to Chennai’s Buhari Hotel, which introduced it in 1965. At Chilli N Chopsticks in Downtown Kitchener, Chicken 65 is $16.99 and halal certified.
Where the name "65" comes from
Nobody agrees completely. The most common story is that the dish first appeared on the menu at the Buhari Hotel in Chennai in 1965. Other popular stories say it used 65 chillies, 65-day-old chicken, or was item 65 on a menu. The Buhari story is the one most food writers repeat.
What it tastes like
Bite-size pieces of chicken are marinated, fried until crisp and red, and often finished with curry leaves and green chilli. It’s spicy, tangy and very moreish, and it’s served without sauce, so it stays crunchy. It’s a bar snack and party starter across South India.
The same style made with cauliflower is Gobi 65, $14.49 on our menu.
Chicken 65 vs other chicken starters
- Chicken 65, $16.99: spicy, dry, South Indian style.
- Chicken Lollipop (8 pcs), $15.99: frenched wings, crispy.
- Chicken Wings (8 pcs), $14.99, honey garlic or chilli sauce.
- Honey Garlic Chicken, $14.99.
Order Chicken 65 in Kitchener
Good with a cold Corona or a Masala Banta soda. Ask for your spice level.
Order online for pickup, get delivery on Uber Eats or DoorDash, or book a table at 183 King St E, Downtown Kitchener. Open 7 days: Sunday to Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
FAQ
What is Chicken 65?
A spicy deep-fried chicken starter from South India, marinated with chilli, ginger, garlic and spices and served dry.
Why is it called Chicken 65?
The most common explanation is that it was introduced at the Buhari Hotel in Chennai in 1965.
Is Chicken 65 very spicy?
It is a spicy dish, but you can ask for mild, medium or extra spicy.
Is your Chicken 65 halal?
Yes. Chilli N Chopsticks is halal certified.
Still have a question? Message us on Instagram @chillichopsticks_kitchener or call 519-208-9775.
