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Chicken Tempura

Crispy Chicken Tempura: A Homemade Delight You’ll Love

Crispy Chicken Tempura brings back childhood memories with its crunchy batter and juicy chicken.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 20 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Substitution: Chicken thighs can be used, but adjust cooking time.
  • 1 clove Garlic Use freshly grated for best taste.
  • 1 piece Ginger Freshly grated is ideal.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Substitution: Tamari for gluten-free.
  • 2 tablespoons Sake or Water Sake enhances flavor; otherwise, use water.
  • to taste Pepper
For the Batter
  • 2 cups Neutral Oil Choose oils with a high smoke point.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitution: Gluten-free flour can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch Essential for texture; cannot be substituted.
  • 1 piece Egg Ensure it is at fridge temperature.
  • 1 cup Sparkling Water Can substitute with chilled still water.
For the Dipping Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Ponzu Sauce Substitution: Soy sauce mixed with lemon juice if unavailable.

Equipment

  • Deep pan or fryer
  • Whisk
  • Thermometer
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Tempura
  1. Begin by pounding the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness of about ¼ - ⅓ inch and cut them into strips measuring approximately 1x3 inches.
  2. Combine freshly grated garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sake, and pepper in a bowl to create a marinade. Add the chicken strips and let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Pour enough neutral oil into a large deep pan or fryer to reach a depth of about 2 inches and heat to 350°F (180°C).
  4. In a bowl over ice, whisk together cornstarch and all-purpose flour, then slowly whisk in the egg and chilled sparkling water until smooth.
  5. Remove excess marinade from the chicken, dip each piece into the batter, allowing excess to drip off before frying.
  6. Fry 3-4 battered chicken pieces in the hot oil for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Serve immediately with ponzu dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure all batter ingredients are chilled for ultra-crispy texture. Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature, and drain properly on a wire rack.

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