Kerala Chicken Fry, also known as Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu, is a traditional Malabar-style dish bursting with flavors and textures. Marinated in yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, and special Kerala garam masala, this chicken is shallow-fried to crispy perfection. Garnished with fried curry leaves, onions, and green chilies, this dish is perfect to serve with rice or flatbreads.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Kerala Chicken Fry is a perfect blend of crispy chicken with a spicy kick, making it a crowd favorite at family dinners or special occasions. The marination helps the spices penetrate deep into the chicken, ensuring that each bite is flavorful and aromatic. One of the secrets to this dish is the use of coconut oil for frying, which adds a distinct flavor and richness to the dish. Additionally, the crunchy garnish of fried onions, green chilies, and curry leaves enhances the overall experience, providing an exciting contrast to the tender chicken.
This dish is a great example of Kerala’s rich culinary heritage, where simple ingredients come together to create something incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that can be adjusted to your taste by increasing or decreasing the spiciness.
Prep and Cook Time
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 35 minutes |
Full Ingredients List
- Chicken pieces (2 whole chickens, skinned) – 1.8 kg
- Hung yogurt or Greek yogurt – 1 cup
- Lime juice – 2 tbsp
- Kashmiri chili powder – 3 tbsp
- Turmeric powder – 1 tbsp
- Malabar-style garam masala – 1 ¼ tbsp
- Ginger-garlic paste – 4 tbsp
- Coconut oil for shallow frying
- Onions (red, sliced into rings) – 2 medium-sized
- Mild long green chilies (chopped) – 2
- Curry leaves – 3 tbsp
- Salt – to taste
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5 grams |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Fat | 20 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
How to Make Kerala Chicken Fry: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lime juice, Kashmiri chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, and salt.
- Rub the mixture generously onto the chicken pieces. Make a few slashes in the flesh to ensure the spices penetrate well.
- Cover and refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 5 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Step 2: Prepare for Frying
- Heat coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying.
- Take out the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before frying.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- In batches, add the marinated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry on medium heat until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy on one side.
- Turn the chicken pieces and fry the other side. Each batch should take about 5 minutes per side.
- Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Garnish
- In the same pan, add onion rings, green chilies, and curry leaves to the remaining oil. Fry for just 10 seconds until the onions slightly absorb the flavors.
- Quickly remove the garnish from the pan and set aside.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Arrange the fried chicken on a serving platter and top with the fried onions, chilies, and curry leaves.
- Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or paratha for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Kerala Chicken Fry
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use freshly ground garam masala for the best results. The aroma of fresh spices elevates the dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and a crispy outer layer.
- Control the Heat: Maintain a medium flame while frying to prevent the chicken from burning before it’s cooked inside.
- Use Coconut Oil: Coconut oil adds a distinct and authentic flavor, so avoid substituting it with other oils.
Serving Suggestions
This Kerala Chicken Fry is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes:
- Steamed Rice: Serve alongside hot steamed rice for a simple yet delicious meal.
- Roti or Paratha: The crispy chicken complements flatbreads like roti or paratha perfectly.
- Dipping Sauces: Pair it with a tangy mint chutney or yogurt dip for added freshness.
- With Appetizers: Serve as a snack with drinks or as part of an elaborate Indian feast.
Variations of Kerala Chicken Fry
- Spicier Version: Add extra green chilies or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
- Dry Masala Chicken Fry: For a drier, more robust version, add a teaspoon of coriander powder and reduce the yogurt quantity.
- With Coconut Milk: For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk to the marinade. This adds richness without overwhelming the spices.
Health Benefits of Kerala Chicken Fry
- Rich in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, helping to build and repair body tissues.
- Anti-inflammatory Spices: Spices like turmeric and garam masala contain anti-inflammatory properties that promote overall health.
- High in Iron: The use of curry leaves and onions provides a good dose of iron, helping to improve blood circulation.
Conclusion
Kerala Chicken Fry is a crispy, flavorful dish that’s bound to impress with its perfect balance of spices and textures. The use of coconut oil, fresh spices, and aromatic curry leaves makes this dish truly authentic and deeply satisfying. Whether you serve it as a main course or a snack, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
If you’re looking to explore Kerala’s rich culinary heritage, this chicken fry is a must-try. The recipe is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. Pair it with rice, flatbreads, or even as a standalone snack—this dish will never disappoint!
