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Savory Japanese Fried Chicken

Juicy Savory Japanese Fried Chicken That Beats Fast Food

Experience the joy of savory Japanese fried chicken, or karaage, with a juicy interior and crispy exterior, enhanced by a rich marinade.
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Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Marinade
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Substitute with gluten-free tamari for a soy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Sake Can be replaced with white wine or omitted.
  • 1 tablespoon Grated Ginger Fresh ginger is best; ground ginger can be a substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced is preferred; garlic powder can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Can swap with neutral oil like canola.
Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts but may be drier.
Coating
  • 1/2 cup Potato Starch Gluten-free; can swap with cornstarch.
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour Can alternatively use gluten-free flour blend.
For Frying
  • 2 cups Vegetable Oil Recommended for frying; can use canola or peanut oil.
Optional Garnishes
  • 1 whole Lemon Wedges Recommended for a fresh burst.
  • 1 tablespoon Japanese Mayo Optional for dipping.

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Deep Pan or Wok
  • Thermometer
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, sake, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Whisk until well mixed.
  2. Add the boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix potato starch and all-purpose flour together. Remove chicken from marinade and coat each piece evenly.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok to 170°C (340°F). Maintain the right temperature while frying.
  5. Carefully place the coated chicken in small batches into the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
  6. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken onto paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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