Japanese Fried Chicken Recipe: How To Make It Taste Authentic

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Japanese-style fried chicken, a delectable culinary creation that tantalizes taste buds with its crispy exterior and juicy interior. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to master this irresistible dish.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup sake (optional)
• 1/4 cup mirin (optional)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the chicken into 8-10 pieces (breasts, thighs, drumsticks, wings).
• Rinse the chicken with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Make the Batter

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, soy sauce, sake (if using), and mirin (if using).

3. Marinate the Chicken

• Add the chicken pieces to the batter mixture and stir to coat.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

4. Double Coat the Chicken

• Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess batter.
• Dip the chicken pieces back into the flour mixture and press to coat.
• Dip the chicken pieces back into the batter mixture and press to coat again.

5. Fry the Chicken

• Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Drain and Season

• Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels.
• Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the fried chicken Japanese hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken Japanese

• For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken in the flour mixture.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Avoid overcrowding the pot or fryer when frying the chicken.
• Let the fried chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken Japanese: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
• Garlic Fried Chicken Japanese: Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the batter mixture.
• Ginger Fried Chicken Japanese: Add 1 tablespoon of grated ginger to the batter mixture.
• Sweet and Sour Fried Chicken Japanese: Serve the chicken with a sweet and sour sauce made from pineapple juice, vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar.

Dipping Sauces

• Tonkatsu Sauce: A thick and savory sauce made from tomatoes, onions, carrots, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Soy Sauce: A classic dipping sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Mayonnaise: A creamy and tangy sauce that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Yuzu Kosho: A Japanese condiment made from yuzu citrus and green chili peppers.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the fried chicken Japanese with steamed rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables.
• Use the chicken as a topping for a ramen bowl.
• Create a bento box with the fried chicken, rice, and other Japanese side dishes.

The Art of Karaage

Karaage is the Japanese term for fried chicken. It is typically made with bite-sized pieces of chicken that are marinated in a soy sauce-based marinade and then coated in a flour mixture before being fried. Karaage is a popular dish in Japan and is often served as an appetizer or main course.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I use boneless chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts. However, the cooking time may be slightly shorter.

Q: What is sake?
A: Sake is a Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. It is similar to wine and can be used to add flavor to marinades and sauces.

Q: Can I use olive oil to fry the chicken?
A: Olive oil has a low smoke point, so it is not recommended for frying chicken. Use vegetable oil or canola oil instead.

Q: How do I store leftover fried chicken Japanese?
A: Leftover fried chicken Japanese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Q: What are some other Japanese-inspired chicken dishes?
A: Other popular Japanese-inspired chicken dishes include teriyaki chicken, yakitori, and oyakodon.