Crispy Japanese Fried Chicken
Crispy Japanese fried chicken, known as Karaage, offers a delightful crunch paired with juicy, flavorful meat, making it a favorite comfort food for many.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs Cuts yield juicier results.
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sake or apple juice Sake enhances flavor; apple juice is a substitute.
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 cup potato starch or cornstarch Coating for crispiness.
- to taste salt and pepper For seasoning.
- as needed lemon wedges for serving Optional garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
- In another bowl, combine soy sauce, sake or apple juice, grated ginger, and minced garlic, then stir well.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, covering it thoroughly. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Drain the excess liquid from the marinated chicken to help achieve a crispy finish.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken, and toss it lightly to enhance flavor.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in potato starch or cornstarch until fully coated.
Cooking
- Heat about two inches of oil in a pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
- Test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Carefully add pieces of chicken to the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Repeat the frying process for the remaining chicken pieces.
Serving
- Serve hot, optionally with steamed rice and a fresh salad, or as a finger food with dipping sauces.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!
Notes
To achieve maximum crispiness, let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels after cooking. Experiment with different marinades and coatings for new flavor experiences.