Crispy Japanese Karaage (Fried Chicken)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Crispy Japanese Karaage (Fried Chicken).

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious chicken dish, grab a medium bowl and mix together the grated garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sake, mirin, sesame oil, black pepper, cayenne pepper, sugar, and salt.

2. Step 2

   This flavorful blend will serve as your marinade.

3. Step 3

   Once everything is well combined, add the chicken pieces, making sure they’re fully coated in this aromatic mixture.

4. Step 4

   Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or up to ten hours if you want to really deepen those flavors.

5. Step 5

   Next, it’s time to set up your dredging station.

6. Step 6

   Place a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet to catch any drips, and pour some potato starch into a wide, shallow bowl.

7. Step 7

   This will give your chicken that perfect crispy coating.

8. Step 8

   When you’re ready, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge.

9. Step 9

   Give it a good stir to ensure each piece is well-coated in the marinade again.

10. Step 10

    Now, dredge 2 to 3 pieces of chicken at a time in the potato starch, making sure they’re evenly covered.

11. Step 11

    Shake off any excess starch and place the coated chicken on the wire rack.

12. Step 12

    Repeat this process until all the chicken is coated.

13. Step 13

    Once you’ve finished coating, gently tap the rack to remove any loose starch.

14. Step 14

    For the best results, pop the baking sheet with the rack into the refrigerator for about 15 to 30 minutes.

15. Step 15

    This little trick helps the coating stick better when frying.

16. Step 16

    Now, let’s get frying! Heat canola oil in a deep fryer or a large pot until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

17. Step 17

    Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches, being mindful not to overcrowd the pot.

18. Step 18

    Fry the chicken, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.

19. Step 19

    Once done, transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

20. Step 20

    Repeat this with the remaining chicken, and soon you’ll have a batch of crispy, flavorful chicken ready to enjoy!.