Go Back
+ servings
Japanese Fried Chicken

Crispy Japanese Fried Chicken: A Flavorful Homemade Delight

Enjoy Crispy Japanese Fried Chicken, known as Karaage, a delightfully flavorful dish combining crispy textures and rich umami in every bite.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: APPETIZERS
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 500 grams Chicken thighs Substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup Soy sauce Tamari works for gluten-free needs.
  • 2 tablespoons Sake Can be swapped with dry white wine or rice vinegar.
  • 1 tablespoon Grated ginger Use fresh for best results.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Can be minced or substituted with garlic powder.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame oil Vegetable oil is a suitable alternative.
For the Coating
  • 1/2 cup Potato starch (or cornstarch) Essential for achieving the crispy outer layer.
  • 1/2 cup All-purpose flour Choose gluten-free flour as a substitute if desired.
For Frying and Serving
  • 2 cups Vegetable oil Opt for oils with high smoke points like canola.
  • 1 whole Lemon wedges Feel free to omit if not garnishing.
  • 1/4 cup Japanese mayo Optional dipping sauce.

Equipment

  • medium bowl
  • Deep pan or wok
  • Thermometer
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil.
  2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine potato starch and all-purpose flour.
  4. In a deep pan or wok, heat enough vegetable oil to submerge the chicken to about 170°C (340°F).
  5. Take marinated chicken pieces out of the fridge and lightly coat each with the starch-flour mixture.
  6. In batches, carefully place the chicken into the hot oil and fry for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Once fried, remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve hot with lemon wedges for freshness, or a side of Japanese mayo for dipping. Optional to serve alongside steamed rice or in a bento box.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!