Crispy Japanese Fried Chicken (Chicken Karaage)
Savor the irresistible crunch and juicy flavor of Crispy Japanese Fried Chicken, or Chicken Karaage. This popular dish features tender chicken marinated in a delightful blend of soy sauce, sake, and ginger, then coated in a crispy starch for an unforgettable texture. Perfect for any meal, this recipe brings authentic Japanese flavors right to your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sake or cooking sake
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup potato starch or cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying (enough to cover chicken halfway)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional: add wasabi)
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sake, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- 2. Prepare for Frying: Pat the marinated chicken dry with paper towels. Dredge each piece in potato starch until fully coated.
- 3. Heat the Oil: In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil to about 350°F (175°C).
- 4. Frying: Carefully add chicken in batches and fry for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 5. Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 pieces (150g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg