Indian cuisine has once again claimed a prominent spot on the global culinary map, as Taste Atlas, the renowned food and travel guide, ranked Chicken 65 third in its updated list of the Best Fried Chicken Dishes in December 2024. This marks a significant jump for the beloved dish, which previously held the tenth position in August 2023.
Described as a “deep-fried chicken marinated in ginger, lemon, red chilies, and an array of spices,” Chicken 65 is celebrated for its bold, fiery flavors and delightfully crispy texture. The dish, believed to have originated in Tamil Nadu in the 1960s, was first introduced at the famous Buhari Hotel in Chennai. While its exact origins remain debated, popular theories include the use of 65 chilies in the recipe or its debut as the 65th menu item. Regardless of its name’s roots, Chicken 65 has become an iconic Indian dish, loved for its perfect balance of heat, zest, and spice.
The updated rankings highlight the dominance of Asian cuisines in the world of fried chicken. Korea’s Chikin (Korean Fried Chicken), celebrated for its crispy, double-fried coating and savory-sweet sauces, took the top spot, while Japan’s Karaage, featuring bite-sized pieces of marinated chicken coated in potato starch and deep-fried, claimed second place. Indonesia’s Ayam Goreng, known for its rich spice blend and golden, crisp crust, secured fifth place. Other standout entries included Taiwan’s Popcorn Chicken, China’s Zhaziji, and Indonesia’s Ayam Penyet, reaffirming Asia’s culinary prowess.
Chicken 65’s recognition underscores the growing appeal of Indian cuisine globally. Indian dishes are increasingly being celebrated for their complex flavors, rich history, and versatility. This is not the first time India has shone in Taste Atlas rankings—just last month, rajma (kidney beans cooked in a spiced tomato-based gravy) ranked 14th in their 50 Best Bean Dishes list.
The inclusion of Chicken 65 in the global top three is a testament to how regional Indian dishes resonate with diverse palates across the world. It also showcases the ingenuity of Indian culinary traditions, which transform humble ingredients into masterpieces. For food enthusiasts, Chicken 65 serves as a flavorful ambassador of India’s vibrant and dynamic food culture, reaffirming its status as a must-try dish on the international stage.