Easy Chicken Karaage, Japanese Restaurant-Style

Nearly every country has its version of fried chicken. Taiwan is known for its XXL chicken chops, Thailand has the Hat Yai fried chicken, and the Philippines takes pride in Chickenjoy. Puerto Rico joins with chicharron de pollo. And who doesn't know about America's buffalo wings? But don't forget Japan, the land of deep-fried, golden chicken karaage.

Many overlook these chicken cutlets, especially when served beside sushi, ramen, and tempura. What's so special about these bites anyway? Maybe if you study how to make chicken karaage, you'll learn to appreciate the dish more. Try this recipe inspired by versions from Japanese restaurants and see for yourself!

35 min.
4 People
Easy
Average

Ingredients

1/3 kg chicken breast fillets, cut into 3-inch pieces
3 tbsp sake or rice wine
1 tbsp Knorr Liquid Seasoning
2 tsp minced garlic
2 tsp minced ginger
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cassava starch or cornstarch
oil, for frying
lemon wedges, for garnish

For the mayo dip:

1/2 cup Lady’s Choice Real Mayonnaise
1 tbsp Knorr Liquid Seasoning
pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

For the gravy:

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken stock
1 tbsp Knorr Liquid Seasoning
pinch of ground pepper

Cooking Method

Combine chicken, sake, Knorr Liquid Seasoning, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Meanwhile, make the dip: Combine all ingredients in a bowl; set aside. To make the gravy, melt butter in a pan. Whisk in flour and pour in stock. Add Knorr Liquid Seasoning and pepper. Simmer until thick.
Take chicken out of the fridge and drain any liquid. In a shallow dish, mix flour and cornstarch. Roll chicken in the mixture until coated on all sides.
Heat oil in a deep pot over high flame. Deep-fry chicken in batches until golden. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve hot with mayo dip or gravy on the side.

Unlike other fried chicken varieties, this Japanese treat cooks in a few minutes. And because the recipe calls for leaner breast fillets, it's healthier than most options. Even kids will enjoy this as baon! Once the family tries it, they'll beg you to make restaurant-style chicken karaage more often. No need to order takeout anymore!