Japanese Karaage

Japanese karaage is a popular dish of bite-sized, deep-fried chicken marinated in a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sometimes sake or mirin, then coated in potato starch or cornstarch for an extra-crispy finish. Originating from Japan, it's a staple in home cooking, bento boxes, and izakaya pubs, often served with a squeeze of lemon and a side of cabbage.

🍳 View the full Japanese Karaage recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Karaage is high in protein from the chicken but also contains significant fat due to deep-frying, with a moderate amount of carbs from the starch coating. A typical serving (about 100g) provides around 250-300 calories, along with key nutrients like iron, B vitamins, and some zinc.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	350 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	550 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Potassium	300 mg
Phosphorus	200 mg
Zinc	2 mg
Niacin (B3)	8 mg
Vitamin B6	0.4 mg
Vitamin B12	0.3 mcg
Selenium	15 mcg

Per 1 serving (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, karaage reflects Japan's adaptation of Chinese frying techniques into a uniquely Japanese comfort food, often enjoyed as a casual snack or part of a balanced meal. Nutritionally, the use of potato starch instead of flour creates a lighter, crispier texture that helps the chicken stay juicy inside, making it a beloved choice for both children and adults.