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Chicken Karaage: A Japanese Delight
Experience the delightful crunch and savory flavor of Chicken Karaage, a beloved Japanese dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds with every bite. This recipe offers a perfect blend of tender chicken marinated in a flavorful mix of spices and coated in a crispy batter. Ideal for any occasion, this dish will surely become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:

- 1/2 kg boneless chicken thigh fillets
Marinade:
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 tablespoons Japanese soy sauce (regular soy sauce can be substituted)
- A pinch of salt
- Seasoning to taste
- A small amount of finely chopped ginger (optional, if desired)
Dry Coating:
- 10 tablespoons cornstarch
- 5 tablespoons sago flour (or tapioca flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into approximately 3-4 cm squares. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and add all the marinade ingredients: garlic, palm sugar, egg, black pepper, white pepper, soy sauce, salt, seasoning, and ginger (if using). Mix well, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator for 1-3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
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Prepare the Dry Coating:
- In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch, sago flour (or tapioca flour), and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform dry coating mixture.
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Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. One piece at a time, dredge the chicken pieces in the dry coating mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well and forms a nice, even layer.
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Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the pan. Fry the chicken until it turns a golden brown and achieves a crispy texture. This should take a few minutes per side. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can affect the frying process.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve the Chicken Karaage hot, garnished with a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Marination Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for the full 3 hours will impart a deeper flavor, making the dish even more delicious.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving the ideal crispiness without burning the coating. Medium-low heat is recommended to ensure even cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: Chicken Karaage pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice, a fresh salad, or a dipping sauce such as mayonnaise or a tangy ponzu sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
Enjoy this traditional Japanese Chicken Karaage, perfect for family dinners, parties, or as a delicious snack. This recipe is sure to impress with its crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. Happy cooking!