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Delicious Karaage: Crispy Japanese Fried Chicken


  • Author: Alioui
  • Total Time: 45 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: serves 4

Description

Imagine biting into a piece of chicken that is so delightfully crispy on the outside but reveals an incredibly juicy and flavorful inside with each bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp sake (Japanese rice wine)
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • ¼ cup potato starch (or cornstarch)
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Optional: Japanese mayo for dipping

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sake, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. This will be the aromatic base that infuses the chicken with flavor, giving the dish its distinctive taste.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can let the chicken marinate for up to four hours.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the potato starch and all-purpose flour. This mixture will provide the chicken with its signature crispy exterior. Set aside until the chicken is ready to be coated.
  4. Fill a deep pan or wok with vegetable oil, allowing the oil to reach a depth that will adequately submerge the chicken pieces. Heat the oil to 170°C (340°F), using a thermometer to monitor the temperature to prevent over or undercooking.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Roll each piece in the flour-starch mix, shaking off any excess coating. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.
  6. Carefully place chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the chicken onto paper towels to drain excess oil.

Notes

Ensure oil temperature is consistent to avoid greasy chicken. Pat chicken dry before coating to achieve a better adhesion of the flour mixture.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

Nutrition

  • Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
  • Sodium: Depending on soy sauce choice
  • Protein: 22g per serving