Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this Chicken Tempura recipe brings restaurant-style flavor to your home kitchen! Perfect as an appetizer or a bento box addition, these light and airy chicken tenders are coated in a delicate tempura batter and deep-fried to golden perfection.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken & Seasoning
- For the Tempura Batter
- For Garnish
- How to Make Chicken Tempura
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Step 3: Make the Tempura Batter
- Step 4: Heat the Oil
- Step 5: Coat the Chicken
- Step 6: Fry
- Step 7: Drain
- Step 8: Serve
- How to Serve Chicken Tempura
- With Dipping Sauces
- As Part of a Bento Box
- On a Salad
- How to Perfect Chicken Tempura
- Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tempura
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Chicken Tempura
- Reheating Chicken Tempura
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Chicken Tempura?
- Can I use other meats for tempura?
- How do I know when my tempura is done frying?
- Can I make tempura batter ahead of time?
- What dipping sauces pair well with Chicken Tempura?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making Chicken Tempura at home is a breeze.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic infuses the chicken with mouthwatering taste.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, in a bento box, or as a main dish with rice; it fits any occasion perfectly!
- Light and Crispy Texture: The tempura batter creates a light crunch that complements the juicy chicken inside.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings or family dinners, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start preparing your Chicken Tempura, gather the essential tools. Having the right equipment will help you achieve perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Deep fryer or Dutch oven
- Meat tenderizer
- Mixing bowls
- Slotted spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep fryer or Dutch oven: Essential for even frying at the right temperature, ensuring that your Chicken Tempura is crispy.
- Meat tenderizer: Helps to ensure even cooking by pounding the chicken to a uniform thickness.
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Seasoning:
For the Chicken & Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon finely minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon finely minced garlic
For the Tempura Batter
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup cake flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup ice-cold water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Chicken Tempura
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Use a meat tenderizer to pound the chicken breast to an even thickness. Cut the chicken into thin, even strips.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine chicken strips with salt, pepper, soy sauce, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Mix well and let sit while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Make the Tempura Batter
In a separate large bowl, sift together cake flour, cornstarch, and baking soda. Add the beaten egg and gradually pour in the ice-cold water. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix—lumps are okay.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken strip into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Step 6: Fry
Working in batches, carefully place a few strips into the hot oil. Fry for about 4 minutes, flipping halfway through until the tempura is crispy and golden brown.
Step 7: Drain
Remove the fried chicken with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 8: Serve
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as soy sauce, spicy mayo, or sweet chili sauce. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Tempura!
How to Serve Chicken Tempura
Chicken Tempura is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple snack or an elegant meal, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.
With Dipping Sauces
- Soy Sauce: A classic choice that complements the dish’s flavors perfectly.
- Spicy Mayo: Adds a creamy and zesty kick; mix mayonnaise with sriracha for an easy version.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Provides a delightful sweetness that balances the savory chicken.
As Part of a Bento Box
- Rice: Serve with steamed rice for a filling meal. Add sesame seeds for extra flavor.
- Pickled Vegetables: These add tanginess and crunch, enhancing your bento experience.
- Fresh Fruit: Slices of watermelon or oranges give a refreshing contrast to the fried chicken.
On a Salad
- Mixed Greens: Place crispy Chicken Tempura on top of a bed of fresh greens for a light meal.
- Cucumber Salad: The coolness of cucumbers pairs well with the hot tempura, creating a delightful balance.
How to Perfect Chicken Tempura
Perfecting Chicken Tempura requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time.
- Use Ice-Cold Water: This is crucial for achieving that light and crispy batter. Cold water helps create steam while frying, giving you the desired texture.
- Do Not Overmix the Batter: Lumps in the batter are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough tempura instead of light and airy results.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. If it’s too cool, the tempura will absorb excess oil; too hot, and it will burn.
- Work in Batches: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry small batches to keep everything crispy.
- Drain Excess Oil Properly: Use paper towels to absorb excess oil after frying. This step is essential for keeping your tempura crispy.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Tempura
Pairing side dishes with Chicken Tempura can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Miso Soup: A warm and savory soup that complements the flavors of tempura beautifully.
- Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods add protein and balance out the meal.
- Japanese Rice: Simple steamed rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up any sauces.
- Noodle Salad: Chilled noodle salads offer a refreshing contrast, particularly during warmer months.
- Sesame Broccoli: Lightly sautéed broccoli with sesame seeds adds crunch and nutrition to your plate.
- Tempura Vegetables: Go all out with additional tempura vegetables like sweet potatoes or zucchini for variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Chicken Tempura, avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in the outcome.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing the tempura batter too much can lead to a dense coating. Stir gently until just combined for a light texture.
- Using warm oil: Frying in oil that isn’t hot enough can result in greasy chicken. Ensure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) before adding the chicken.
- Not seasoning the chicken: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland tempura. Marinate your chicken strips with salt, pepper, and soy sauce for better flavor.
- Crowding the pan: Adding too many chicken strips at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches for optimal results.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not using ice-cold water when making the batter can affect its crispiness. Keep your water cold to achieve the best texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Chicken Tempura can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing it to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Chicken Tempura
- For longer storage, freeze Chicken Tempura for up to 2 months.
- Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
Reheating Chicken Tempura
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place Chicken Tempura on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through, but note this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and cook the Chicken Tempura for about 3-4 minutes on each side until heated and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Tempura?
Chicken Tempura is a Japanese dish featuring battered and deep-fried chicken strips. It’s known for its crispy exterior and tender meat inside.
Can I use other meats for tempura?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can use shrimp, fish, or vegetables as well.
How do I know when my tempura is done frying?
Your Chicken Tempura should be golden brown and crispy after about 4 minutes of frying. Always check that it’s cooked through.
Can I make tempura batter ahead of time?
While it’s best to use tempura batter immediately for optimal crispness, you can prepare it an hour ahead and keep it chilled.
What dipping sauces pair well with Chicken Tempura?
Popular choices include soy sauce, spicy mayo, or sweet chili sauce. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Tempura recipe delivers delightful crunch and flavor that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether served as an appetizer or part of a main dish, its versatility allows for plenty of customization—add your preferred dipping sauces or try different seasonings. Give this recipe a go; you won’t be disappointed!
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📖 Recipe Card
PrintCrispy Chicken Tempura
Crispy Chicken Tempura is a delightful Japanese dish that brings the flavors of the restaurant right to your kitchen. This recipe features tender chicken strips coated in a light, airy tempura batter and fried to golden perfection. Whether served as an appetizer or part of a bento box, this dish offers an irresistible crunch on the outside with juicy meat inside. It’s perfect for gatherings or enjoying a cozy night in. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauces like soy sauce, spicy mayo, or sweet chili for an added flavor boost. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make Chicken Tempura!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup cake flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup ice-cold water
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Pound chicken breast to an even thickness and cut into thin strips.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Let marinate.
- In a bowl, sift flour and cornstarch; add baking soda. Mix in beaten egg and ice-cold water until just combined.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each chicken strip into the batter to coat thoroughly.
- Fry in batches for about 4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm with dipping sauces.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
