Ingredients

For Spicy Fried Chicken

• Chicken (boneless): 250 gm, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Buttermilk: 1 cup
• Salt: 1 tsp (or to taste)
• Red chili powder: 1 tsp
• Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
• Dry coriander powder: 1 tsp
• Red chili flakes: 1 tsp
• Black pepper powder: 1/2 tsp
• Turmeric powder: 1/4 tsp
• Cumin powder: 1/2 tsp
• Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
• Oil: for frying
• French fries: as required
• Capsicum: 1, cut into strips for garnish

For Cheese Sauce

• Butter: 1 tbsp
• All-purpose flour (maida): 1 tbsp
• Milk: 1 cup
• Salt: 1/4 tsp (or to taste)
• Red chili powder: 1/2 tsp
• Cheddar cheese (optional): grated, 2 tbsp
• Mozzarella cheese: grated, 2 tbsp
• Cream: 2 tbsp

Steps to Make It

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, add buttermilk, salt, red chili powder, garlic powder, coriander powder, red chili flakes, black pepper powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and lemon juice.
2. Mix the ingredients well, then add the boneless chicken pieces.
3. Coat the chicken thoroughly, cover the bowl, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For more flavor, let it marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, add the all-purpose flour. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the flour is lightly golden and fragrant.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Add salt and red chili powder, stirring until the mixture thickens and reaches a smooth consistency.
5. Stir in grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Add cream and continue stirring until the sauce is velvety. Set aside, keeping it warm.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a deep pan or frying pot over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken pieces into the oil in batches.
3. Fry the chicken until golden and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per batch.
4. Remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Serve the fried chicken alongside freshly fried French fries and capsicum strips.
2. Drizzle or serve with the cheese sauce on the side for dipping.
3. Optionally, garnish with extra chili flakes or chopped fresh herbs for a vibrant touch

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Protein: 27 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fat: 37 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Calcium: 300 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can. However, cooking time will increase as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

2. How can I make this dish less spicy?
You can reduce or omit the red chili powder and chili flakes. If you want a milder flavor without compromising taste, add a bit more cheese sauce or serve with a yogurt-based dip to balance the heat.

3. Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cheese sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk to return it to the desired consistency.

4. Is there a substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken slightly, then use as directed.

5. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and slightly crisp on the edges.

Tips for Perfect Results

• Use Cold Butter in Cheese Sauce: For a smoother sauce, use cold butter as it helps control the cooking temperature of the flour and prevents the sauce from becoming too thick too quickly.
• Pat Dry Chicken Before Marinating: Ensure the chicken is pat dry before marinating, as excess moisture can dilute the marinade.
• Monitor Oil Temperature for Frying: Keep the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to avoid burning the chicken and ensure even cooking.
• Serve Cheese Sauce Fresh: Cheese sauce thickens as it cools. Serve it immediately after preparing for the best texture.

Storage Tips

• Chicken: Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness.
• Cheese Sauce: Store any remaining cheese sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low, adding milk if needed.
• French Fries: Fries are best enjoyed fresh, as they tend to lose crispiness when stored. If necessary, store in an airtight container and reheat in an air fryer or oven to restore texture.

Conclusion

This Spicy Fried Chicken with Cheese Sauce and French Fries is a delicious way to indulge in crispy, flavorful chicken paired with a rich cheese sauce. The balance of spices, creamy sauce, and crunchy fries creates a memorable dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With simple ingredients and flexible preparation methods, this recipe is perfect for a cozy meal or sharing with friends and family at gatherings. Enjoy this delicious dish hot, with your favorite sides, for a guaranteed hit!