10 Best Chicken Dishes in Chennai You Must Try
Best chicken dishes in chennai - sulthans biryani

Introduction

Chennai, is known for its rich culture and delicious food. The city is famous for its traditional South Indian cuisine and unique blend of spices and flavours with that you ca find the best chicken dishes in chennai Among the many delicious dishes that Chennai has to offer, chicken dishes are a must-try. From biryani to tikka, there is something for everyone. This article will share the top 10 chicken dishes you must try in Chennai. So grab a fork and knife. Let’s dive in!

A quick view of the list

  • Chicken 65 – a popular spicy, deep-fried chicken dish originating from Chennai
  • Chicken Biryani – a traditional dish made with long-grain rice, chicken and spices
  • Chicken Tikka Masala – a creamy, tomato-based dish with tender chunks of chicken
  • Chicken Chettinad – a spicy, flavorful dish from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu
  • Chicken Korma – a rich, creamy dish made with yoghurt, cream and spices
  • Chicken Vindaloo – a fiery dish made with a spicy paste of chilli peppers and vinegar
  • Chicken Mughlai – a dish featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce with nuts and raisins
  • Chicken Saaru – a traditional South Indian dish made with tamarind and a variety of spices
  • Chicken Roast – a dish made with marinated chicken that is roasted to perfection
  • Chicken Fried Rice– a popular dish made with cooked rice, chicken and various vegetables and spices.

Chicken 65 

chicken 65 - chicken dishes in chennai
chicken tikka masala – chicken dishes in chennai

This is a popular spicy, deep-fried chicken dish that originated in Chennai, India. The dish is known for its fiery red colour and its complex mix of flavours and spices.

The dish is traditionally made with boneless chicken pieces marinated in yoghurt, ginger, garlic, red chilli powder and other spices. The marinated chicken is then deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. 

Curry leaves, which give the meal a distinctive and aromatic flavour is one of the dish’s distinctive characteristics. The dish is frequently accompanied by a squeeze of lime juice and topped with chopped cilantro and onions. 

There is disagreement over the moniker Chicken 65’s etymology. Some suggest that the dish’s name was inspired by the year it was invented, while others assert that it was named for the number of chicken parts it included. Regardless of where it came from, Chicken 65 is a typical dish in South Indian cooking and is sold by many street vendors and restaurants in Chennai.

Chicken Biryani

Chicken biryani - chicken dishes in chennai
Chicken biryani – chicken dishes in chennai

Chennai enjoys the classic cuisine of chicken biryani, which is enjoyed throughout India. Long-grain rice, chicken and several spices are used to make it. 

Making the rice is the first step in making the dish. Usually, basmati rice is soaked in water for a while before cooking. Marinate the chicken, yoghurt, ginger, garlic and various spices including turmeric, cumin, coriander and garam masala. The marinated chicken is then cooked with onions and tomatoes in a separate saucepan. 

Once the rice and chicken are cooked, they are layered together in a pot and cooked on low heat for a while, allowing the flavours to meld together. The dish is often garnished with fried onions, raisins, cashews and cilantro before being served.

The dish is usually served with raita, a yoghurt-based condiment, and a variety of chutneys such as mint, tamarind or coriander chutney. Biryani is a very versatile dish and is often enjoyed in many different ways, like a meal on its own or as a side dish.

Also Check : History of chicken Biryani and its orgin

Chicken Tikka Masala

chicken tikka masala - chicken dishes in chennai
chicken tikka masala – chicken dishes in chennai

A classic meal originating in India and now loved worldwide is chicken tikka masala. It is a meal with delicate chicken bits and a creamy tomato base.  

The dish is made by marinating chicken in a mixture of yoghurt, ginger, garlic and a variety of spices, such as cumin, coriander and garam masala. The marinated chicken is then skewered and grilled or broiled to create tender and flavorful chunks of chicken.

Once the chicken is cooked, it is added to a sauce made from tomatoes, cream and various spices such as cumin, coriander and garam masala. The sauce is simmered until thickened and the chicken is heated through. The dish is often garnished with fresh cilantro before being served.

Several side dishes including raita or chutneys like mint, tamarind or coriander chutney can be consumed with Chicken Tikka Masala, often served with rice or naan bread.

Although the dish’s origins are up for debate, it is generally accepted that the Indian subcontinent is where it first appeared.

Chicken Chettinad

chicken chetinad - chicken dishes in chennai
chicken chetinad – chicken dishes in chennai

Chicken Chettinad is a hot, delicious dish from Tamil Nadu, India’s Chettinad district. It is renowned for its unique spice mixture and savoury rich flavour.

To make the dish, the chicken is marinated in a mixture of yoghurt, ginger, garlic and other spices including coriander, cumin, fennel, cinnamon and peppercorns. Onions, tomatoes and a range of other vegetables including eggplant, okra and drumsticks are cooked alongside the marinated chicken next.

The use of freshly ground Chettinad masala, a mixture of spices that includes red chillies, coriander, cumin, fennel and black pepper is one of the essential components in Chicken Chettinad. The dish’s distinctive and complex flavour is a result of this. 

Chicken Korma

chicken korma - chicken dishes in chennai
chicken korma – chicken dishes in chennai

Chicken Korma is typically served with rice or naan bread. It can be enjoyed with side dishes such as raita or chutneys like mint, tamarind or coriander chutney.

Rich, creamy chicken korma is a typical dish in Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Tender chicken bits, yoghurt, cream and spices are used to make it.

To prepare the dish, the chicken must be first marinated in a mixture of yoghurt, ginger, garlic and other spices including cumin, coriander and garam masala. 

The marinated chicken is then cooked in a yoghurt-and-cream sauce with many additional ingredients including tomatoes, onions and a range of nuts and seeds including sesame, almond and cashew seeds.

After that, the meal is boiled at a low temperature until the sauce thickens and the chicken is well-cooked. Before serving, the meal is frequently topped with fresh cilantro and nuts.

Chicken Vindaloo

Chicken Vindaloo - chicken dishes in chennai
Chicken Vindaloo – chicken dishes in chennai

The hot meal known as chicken vindaloo, created in the Indian state of Goa, is a favourite throughout India including Chennai. It is a hot and sour dish with hot chilli pepper and vinegar paste.

Steamed rice and fresh cilantro are frequently served with the dish. It can be consumed with other side dishes, raita and chutneys like mint, tamarind or coriander chutney.

Chicken Vindaloo is a delectable dish that is a must-try in Chennai and other parts of India but it is not for the faint hearted due to its spiciness.

Chicken Mughlai 


Chicken Mughlai - chicken dishes in chennai
Chicken Mughlai – chicken dishes in chennai

Popular in Indian and Pakistani cuisine, Chicken Mughlai is a dish that dates back to the Mughal Empire. With a mix of nuts and raisins, this dish is rich, creamy and cooked with tender chicken bits.

Adding a variety of nuts including almonds, cashews and pistachios give Chicken Mughlai its rich, creamy texture and flavour. This is one of the dish’s main ingredients. Additionally raisins are frequently used as a garnish since they offer the food a wonderful texture and sweetness.

Chicken Mughlai can be consumed with various side dishes including raita and chutneys like mint, tamarind or coriander chutney and is often served with rice or naan bread.

Chicken Saaru

chicken saaru - chicken dishes in chennai
chicken saaru – chicken dishes in chennai

Originating from the southern Indian state of Karnataka, Chicken Saaru is a flavorful and satisfying dish traditionally served with rice. It is made by simmering chicken with tamarind juice, spices and coconut milk. The spices used include mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves and red chilli powder giving the dish a unique, tangy flavour.

Tamarind, a tropical fruit known for its sour taste, is a crucial ingredient in Chicken Saaru and adds a tangy flavour. The addition of coconut milk provides a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.

Widespread in southern India, Chicken Saaru can be found in various restaurants and street food vendors. It is a perfect dish for those who enjoy spicy food and a great way to add heat to your meal. It is commonly served with rice and makes a great main course for lunch and dinner. It is a must-try for anyone visiting the region.

Chicken Roast

Chicken roast - chicken dishes in chennai
Chicken roast – chicken dishes in chennai

Chicken Roast is a popular dish made by marinating chicken in a mixture of spices and then roasting it in the oven. The marinade typically includes ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chilli powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. The chicken is then roasted at a high temperature until it is cooked and golden brown. 

The result is a delicious, flavorful dish perfect for a hearty meal. Chicken Roast is usually served with rice or naan bread and can be garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges. It’s a popular dish among non-vegetarians; it can be enjoyed as a main course for lunch or dinner.

Chicken Fried Rice 

Chicken fried rice - chicken dishes in chennai

Chicken Fried Rice is a widely enjoyed dish created by stir-frying cooked rice with chicken, vegetables and a blend of seasonings. The dish can be prepared with either white or brown rice and is seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce and sesame oil. The chicken is often diced and cooked with garlic and ginger before being added to the fried rice. 

Vegetables such as carrots, peas and bell peppers are frequently included to give the dish added texture and flavour.

The dish is usually cooked in a wok or large skillet and is stir-fried over high heat to ensure the rice is crispy and evenly coated with the sauce. It is garnished with green onions, chopped cilantro and sometimes a fried egg on top.

Chicken Fried Rice is famous in Chinese restaurants and street food vendors. It is considered comfort food and a great quick and easy meal option. It can be a main course or a side dish to an Asian-inspired meal.

Conclusion

From the popular chicken biryani to the lesser-known chicken tikka, there are a variety of flavours and spices to explore. We hope this article has helped you discover some of the best chicken dishes the city has to offer and where to find them. 

Remember to try a few different dishes and find your own personal favourite. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, the chicken dishes in Chennai are sure to delight your taste buds. Happy eating!

FAQs 

  • Which is the famous chicken dish of Chennai?

One of the famous chicken dishes of Chennai is “Chettinad Chicken” it is a spicy and flavorful dish that originates from the Chettinad region of Tamil Nadu, India. 

  • What is a 7-course meal?

An hors d’oeuvre, soup, appetiser, salad, main meal, dessert and mignardise are all included in a seven-course dinner menu.

  • Which is the tastiest biryani in Chennai?

One of the tastiest Biryani is Sulthans Biryani, with a unique biryani flavour that no others have. With a wide range of starter dishes, this will be the best choice for your party menu. 

  • What is Chennai famous for?

Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in the southern part of the nation thanks to its ancient temples, dynamic arts scene, natural wonders and thriving culinary scene.

  • What are the nine pieces of chicken?

The nine pieces of chicken are:

  • 2 wings
  • 2 drumsticks
  • 2 thighs
  • 3 breast pieces