Calling all chicken fans: Barbeque Nation’s Kukkad Carnival is open now till July 10

Hyderabad: Barbeque Nation has rolled out its latest themed food festival — Kukkad Carnival — a dedicated celebration of chicken dishes, running across its outlets until July 10. Designed for non-vegetarian enthusiasts who enjoy variety within a single protein, the spread combines familiar favourites with some new experiments across soup, starters, mains and dessert.

While Barbeque Nation is already known for its unlimited grills and extensive buffet, this festival gives chicken a singular spotlight.

What to Try: Starter Picks

If you’re the type to linger over starters, the Chicken Kheema Pav is worth your attention — rich, flavourful and balanced by the buttery pav. The Stuffed Chicken Cheese Tikki walks the line between hearty and indulgent, while the Chilli Sweet Chicken Wings offer a sweet-spicy crunch that could easily be the most crowd-pleasing bite at the table.

Another recommended pick: the Hara Masala Tawa Chicken — green masala-coated chunks seared on the tawa, served hot and herbaceous.

You can start off with a bowl of Chicken Marag, a mild soup with Hyderabadi roots, especially popular among those looking for something warm and light before the heavier items roll in.

Main Course: Ghee Roast to Changezi

Unlike many buffet-style menus, the main course here isn’t just an afterthought. The Tandoori Ghee Roast Chicken Biryani is a standout, layered with flavour, though it may be more spiced than mild eaters expect.

For a more comforting dish, the Chicken Haleem — a rare sight in regular restaurant buffets — offers a soft, porridge-like texture, subtly spiced and suitable for both first-timers and Haleem regulars. Murgh Changezi and Dum Ka Murgh round out the mains with their creamy, North Indian-style gravies.

End with a Kulfi

Dessert isn’t skipped at the carnival — the Honey Almond & Dates Kulfi is a well-crafted, mildly sweet ending that doesn’t overwhelm. If you prefer something fruitier, the Kesar Pista Kulfi or even a basic Fruit Custard are solid options to balance out the meaty meal.

A few tips before you go

• The festival is included in the regular buffet, so you can explore the usual grills and vegetarian options too.

• Arrive early or make a reservation, especially on weekends — festival menus tend to draw bigger crowds.

• If you’re trying to limit fried food, ask for grilled portions of the chicken dishes where possible.

Whether you’re someone who enjoys exploring Indian chicken recipes across regions or just looking for a protein-rich indulgence, Kukkad Carnival is built to offer variety without excess.

Festival dates: Available at all Barbeque Nation outlets until July 10, 2025.

Cuisine focus: Chicken-centric dishes, Indian-style, buffet format.

Meal type: Dine-in only, unlimited buffet.