Japanese Fried Chicken (Karaage Chicken)

Japanese Fried Chicken (Karaage Chicken)

2 servings
Recipe Video Above. One of the most popular Japanese dishes, not only within Japan but abroad, Karaage Chicken is pretty easy to make as long as you don't mind deep frying. Just marinate the chicken, toss in flour, and deep fry. Simple as that. The key is double frying so that the chicken becomes crunchy outside and juicy inside.Don't forget to see the section 'MEAL IDEAS' below the recipe card! It gives you a list of dishes that I have already posted and this recipe that can make up a complete meal. I hope it is of help to you.

Ingredients

  • 350g/12.3oz chicken thigh fillets)

    , cut into large bite size pieces (Note 1

  • 20g/0.7oz corn flour

    / cornstarch

  • Vegetable oil for deep frying
  • soy sauce
    1 tbsp
  • cooking sake
    1 tbsp
  • mirin

    Note 2

    ½ tsp
  • ginger

    including juice

    2 tsp
  • Shredded lettuce or cabbage
  • parsley
    1 sprig

Directions

  1. 1

    Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towel. Put the chicken and the Marinade ingredients into a ziplock bag or a bowl.

  2. 2

    Massage the bag well ensuring that all pieces are coated with the marinade. Marinate for 30 minutes to an hour.

  3. 3

    Heat enough oil in a deep pot or pan to 160°C/320°F (note 3). The depth of the oil should be about 3-4cm/1¼-1½”.

  4. 4

    Meanwhile, drain excess marinade from the chicken, place the chicken pieces on paper towels to remove excess liquid, and put them in a bowl.

  5. 5

    Sprinkle over the corn flour and turn chicken to coat every piece with corn flour.

  6. 6

    Fry chicken in batches. Add several chicken pieces to the oil one by one and fry for about 2.5-3 minutes (note 4). You may want to move the chicken pieces around as they tend to stick to the bottom of the pot/pan.

  7. 7

    Take the chicken pieces out of the oil and rest for at least 3-4 minutes (note 5) on paper towels. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces.

  8. 8

    Skim any flour crumbs from the oil if there are any and increase the temperature of the oil to 190-200°C/374-392°F (note 3).

  9. 9

    Put the chicken pieces back into the oil in batches and fry for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until golden brown and crunchy. Repeat with remaining chicken pieces.

  10. 10

    Serve immediately with shredded lettuce and parsley for decoration if using.

Japanese Fried Chicken (Karaage Chicken)

Japanese Fried Chicken (Karaage Chicken)

25 min2 servings523 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving that irresistible crunch of authentic Japanese fried chicken, perfectly juicy on the inside? This Japanese Fried Chicken, or Karaage Chicken, recipe brings a beloved dish right to your kitchen, focusing on incredible flavor and texture.

The secret to Karaage's legendary crunch and tender interior lies in the double-frying technique. This method ensures an incredibly crispy exterior that lasts, while sealing in all the savory juices from the simple yet potent marinade of soy sauce, sake, mirin, and fresh ginger. It’s a simple process that yields restaurant-quality results.

You'll bite into golden-brown pieces of chicken thigh, each one exploding with savory umami and a hint of ginger. The texture contrast—a satisfying crispness giving way to moist, flavorful meat—is truly what makes Karaage a worldwide favorite. This main course offers a delightful culinary experience that's surprisingly easy to achieve at home, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With a yield of 2 servings at 523 calories each, it’s a satisfying and flavorful meal.

While the classic marinade offers a perfect balance of flavors, you can easily adjust the amount of freshly grated ginger to your preference if you enjoy a stronger zing. The recipe calls for specific chicken thigh fillets, which are key to achieving the signature juicy texture. Serve your Karaage with a generous side of shredded lettuce or cabbage for a refreshing contrast, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous note.

This Japanese Fried Chicken is a fantastic centerpiece for a casual meal or a more festive gathering. Pair it with simple sides like rice, or enjoy it as part of a larger Japanese-inspired spread for a complete and satisfying dining experience.

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