Chicken Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken)

Step 1

In a medium sized bowl, mix the soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic and ginger together.

Step 2

Add the diced chicken pieces to the marinade and then mix thoroughly until the chicken is coated.

Step 3

Cover and chill for 30 minutes or up to 24+ hours.  I've even marinated this up to 2 days and it was fantastic.

Step 4

Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and set aside.

Step 5

In a small bowl, add the corn starch.

Step 6

Toss the chicken into the corn starch until all are breaded.

Step 7

Discard the remaining marinade.

Step 8

As I mentioned, I used an air fryer for this recipe but you can always fry the chicken in a skillet with 1 1/2" of canola or olive oil, just be sure not to crowd the chicken.  Cook until browned on all sides (about 5-6 minutes total per batch); drain on a paper towel to remove any excess oil.

Step 9

If you're using an air fryer, preheat it for 8-10 minutes at 400

Step 10

When ready, spray your air fryer basket with olive oil spray.

Step 11

Add the chicken in a single layer, spraying the chicken with olive oil spray, and then air fry at 400 for about 3-4 minutes, then shake or turn the chicken over and fry again for another 3-4 minutes until brown and crispy.