Easy Oven-Baked Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken)

Ingredients

• 800 g boneless chicken thigh (with skin, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 4 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil (optional)
• 3 garlic (cloves, grated)
• ginger (small piece, grated)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 0.5 cup flour (for coating)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for the pan and drizzling)
• lemon (for serving (optional))

Steps

1. 1

   Cut the boneless chicken thighs into uniform bite-sized pieces.

2. 2

   In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 4 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil (if using), 3 grated garlic cloves, a small piece of grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon of sugar.

3. 3

   Mix the ingredients well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

4. 4

   Preheat your oven to 250°C (480°F).

5. 5

   Thoroughly coat each piece of marinated chicken in flour.

6. 6

   Add some oil to a baking pan or oven-safe skillet. Place the floured chicken pieces on top in a single layer, then drizzle a little more oil over the chicken.

7. 7

   Bake in the preheated oven for 6 minutes.

8. 8

   Flip the chicken pieces over and continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the exterior is crispy and golden brown.

9. 9

   Serve hot, optionally with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top.

Notes

While traditionally deep-fried, this oven method significantly reduces fat intake while maintaining a crispy texture. For the best flavor, use chicken thighs with the skin on.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• Japanese
• fried chicken
• oven-baked
• easy
• high-protein