Crispy and Delicious Chicken Tempura Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup mirin
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1/2 cup grated daikon radish
  • 1 tablespoon chopped scallions

Steps and instructions

  1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and cold water together.
  4. Add the egg mixture into the flour mixture and stir until it forms a smooth batter.
  5. Dip the chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
  6. Roll the battered chicken pieces in the breadcrumbs.
  7. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  8. Deep fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  9. While the chicken is frying, make the dipping sauce by combining soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and grated ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
  10. Remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool. Once cooled, mix in the grated daikon radish and chopped scallions.
  11. Serve the hot chicken tempura with the dipping sauce on the side.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - For cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
  • Knife - To slice the chicken breasts and prepare the ingredients.
  • Large bowl - To mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
  • Whisk - To combine the eggs and cold water in a separate bowl.
  • Deep fryer or large saucepan - For deep frying the chicken tempura.
  • Tongs - To flip and remove the chicken pieces from the oil.
  • Paper towels - To drain the fried chicken tempura.
  • Small saucepan - To make the dipping sauce.
  • Stove - To heat and simmer the dipping sauce ingredients.

Recipe variations

  • Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a lighter and crunchier crust.
  • Replace all-purpose flour with rice flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
  • Try using different meats such as shrimp, fish, or thinly sliced pork instead of chicken.
  • Add spices or herbs to the flour mixture for extra flavor, such as paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs.
  • Experiment with different dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a spicy mayo.
  • Add grated Parmesan cheese or grated coconut to the breadcrumbs for a unique twist.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with sliced vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers.
  • Incorporate seasonings like curry powder, cayenne pepper, or Chinese five-spice powder into the batter for a flavor variation.
  • For a healthier version, try baking the coated chicken at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) until crispy instead of deep frying.
  • Experiment with different marinades or brines for the chicken before coating it in batter.

Recipe overview

This Chicken Tempura recipe is a delicious twist on a traditional Japanese dish. Instead of using seafood, we're using chicken, which is coated in a light, airy batter and breadcrumbs before being deep-fried to golden, crispy perfection. Served with a flavorful dipping sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sugar, ginger, daikon radish, and scallions, this dish is sure to impress at your next dinner party or family meal. The preparation involves making a simple batter, frying the chicken, and preparing a savory sauce. It's a relatively simple process, but the results are absolutely worth it. Enjoy this satisfying, crunchy, and delightful chicken tempura.

Common questions

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
    Yes, you can use chicken thighs as a substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. Can I use gluten-free flour?
    Yes, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make the batter gluten-free.
  3. Can I bake the chicken instead of deep frying?
    While deep frying gives the chicken tempura its signature crispy texture, you can bake the chicken in the oven for a healthier alternative. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and bake the chicken for about 20 minutes, or until it is cooked through and golden brown.
  4. What can I serve with chicken tempura?
    Chicken tempura pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side salad. You can also serve it with a dipping sauce, like soy sauce or sweet chili sauce.
  5. Can I make the dipping sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the dipping sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a stir before serving.
  6. Can I freeze the leftover chicken tempura?
    While it is best to consume chicken tempura immediately for optimal texture, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface for cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  • Knife - A sharp knife to cut the chicken into pieces.
  • Large bowl - A bowl to mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
  • Whisk - A utensil for whisking the eggs and cold water together.
  • Deep fryer or large saucepan - A cooking vessel for deep frying the chicken tempura.
  • Tongs - Utensils for flipping and removing the chicken from the oil.
  • Paper towels - To drain the fried chicken and absorb excess oil.
  • Small saucepan - A pan for making the dipping sauce.
  • Stirring spoon - A utensil for stirring the dipping sauce ingredients.
  • Serving platter - A dish for presenting the hot chicken tempura.

Origin stories

Tempura, including the chicken variation, has a long and interesting history. Originally introduced to Japan by Portuguese Jesuit missionaries in the 16th century, Tempura was initially a way to respect the Catholic practice of avoiding meat on certain days. The Portuguese word "temporas" refers to these religious days, and it's how Tempura got its name. Though initially an adaptation of a foreign practice, Tempura became uniquely Japanese with the refinement of its batter and frying technique over centuries. Today, Tempura is widely enjoyed all around world, not only on meat-free days, but as a delicious anytime dish.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.