Kerala Chicken Fry (Kozhi Varuthathu) Recipe

Serves: 2–3
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Skill Level: Easy

Kerala Chicken Fry, also known as Kozhi Varuthathu, is a classic South Indian dish famous for its crisp texture and bold, aromatic flavour. Using our Kerala Chicken Fry Spice Mix, this recipe creates beautifully spiced chicken pieces with a golden, crunchy finish — perfect as a starter, side or main dish.

Shopping List

  • Chicken breast – 500 g, medium diced
  • Ginger paste – 1 tsp
  • Garlic paste – 1 tsp
  • Lemon – a few drops
  • Kerala Chicken Fry Spice Mix – whole pack
  • Oil for deep frying (sunflower or vegetable oil recommended)
  • Salt – to taste

Cooking Method

  1. Marinate the chicken
    Combine the diced chicken with:

Kerala Chicken Fry Spice Mix

  1. 1 tsp ginger paste

  2. 1 tsp garlic paste

  3. A few drops of lemon

  4. Salt to taste
    Mix thoroughly.

  1. Leave to marinate for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results.
  2. Heat the oil
    Heat approximately 1 inch of sunflower or vegetable oil in a deep pan.
    Oil should be hot but not smoking.
  3. Fry the chicken
    Add the marinated chicken pieces and fry on medium heat.
    Cook until the outside is golden brown and crisp.
    This should take 8–10 minutes, depending on piece size.
  4. Drain and serve
    Remove the chicken and drain on kitchen paper.
    Serve hot with lemon wedges or fresh coriander.

Recipe Notes

  • Naturally gluten free and nut free
  • Marinating overnight enhances flavour
  • For extra heat, add chopped green chillies to the marinade
  • Pairs well with Kerala Pilav or Sambar