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When it comes to favourite non-vegetarian dishes among people, chicken often takes the top spot for its comforting and delicious appeal. But when you're planning the perfect dinner, everyone knows it isn’t complete without the ideal dish on the table. That’s where Tamil Nadu comes in with its hearty meals.
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Famous for its vibrant and diverse cuisine, the state offers a wide variety of chicken dishes that are both flavourful and satisfying. Whether fiery and spicy or mildly tangy, each dish has its own unique taste and preparation style. So, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cosy meal at home, these seven Tamil Nadu chicken dishes will make for the perfect dinner treat. Let’s explore these must-try dishes from the region.
Chettinad Kozhi Rasam
A popular dish from the Chettinad region, Chettinad kozhi rasam is a tangy and spicy chicken soup that is both comforting and packed with flavour. Made using fresh ground spices like black pepper, cumin, and coriander, along with garlic and tamarind, this dish is a perfect appetiser or light meal. The tender pieces of chicken in the tangy broth make for a delightful combination. This dish is often served with steamed rice, and its bold flavours make it a favourite among spice lovers.
Chicken Pallipalayam
Chicken pallipalayam is a simple yet flavourful chicken fry from the Pallipalayam region of Tamil Nadu. It is made using minimal ingredients like dried red chillies, coconut, and shallots. What makes this dish stand out is its rustic flavour, derived from the slow cooking of the chicken in coconut oil and the use of traditional spices. The dish has a nice balance of heat and sweetness, thanks to the coconut and red chillies. It’s usually served with rice or parottas.
Kozhi Kulambu
A quintessential Tamil Nadu chicken curry, kozhi kulambu is a flavourful dish that is typically served with steamed rice. The curry is made using a blend of spices, tomatoes, and coconut, giving it a rich, creamy texture. The tender chicken pieces soak up the spices, creating a deeply satisfying dish that’s perfect for dinner. This dish is a staple in many Tamil households, and its comforting flavour makes it a great choice for a cosy night in.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Nanjil Nadu Kozhi Curry
Hailing from the Nagercoil region in the southern part of Tamil Nadu, nanjil nadu kozhi curry is a coconut-based chicken curry with a distinct flavour. The curry is prepared using fresh spices and ground coconut paste, which gives it a creamy and aromatic taste. The addition of curry leaves and tamarind gives the dish a subtle tang, making it a comforting and delicious dinner option. It pairs well with rice, idiyappam, or even dosas.
Chicken 65
One of the most famous chicken dishes from Tamil Nadu, chicken 65 is a deep-fried spicy chicken dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s flavoured with red chilli powder, garlic, ginger, and a hint of lemon juice, creating a burst of flavour with every bite. While it is often served as an appetiser, it can also be enjoyed as a main dish with a side of naan or roti. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any dinner setting.
Image Credits: Freepik
Kongu Nadu Kozhi Varuval
Kongu Nadu kozhi varuval is a dry chicken fry from the Kongu region of Tamil Nadu. This dish is known for its use of freshly ground masalas like coriander, cumin, and fennel seeds. The chicken is slow-cooked in a blend of spices and coconut, which gives it a rich and spicy flavour. The use of curry leaves and garlic enhances the taste, making it a perfect dish for a cosy dinner. It’s often served with rice or chapatis, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Madurai Kozhi Salna
Madurai kozhi salna is a popular street food in Tamil Nadu, especially in the city of Madurai. It is a flavourful chicken curry with a thick, spicy gravy made from a mix of spices, coconut, and tomatoes. This dish is typically served with flaky parottas or biryani, making it a favourite dinner option. The slow cooking of the chicken in the masala allows the flavours to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty dish.
