Hawaiian Fried Chicken
This crispy Hawaiian Fried Chicken features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in garlic, soy sauce, and ginger, double-fried to golden perfection, and coated in a savory-sweet garlic soy glaze. Perfectly crunchy, full of flavor, and ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Bring the taste of the islands to your kitchen tonight!
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce shoyu
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
- Vegetable or canola oil for frying, approx. 4 cups
- For the Garlic Soy Glaze Dipping Sauce:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce optional, for heat
- Pinch of chili flakes optional
- Optional Garnish:
- Sliced green onions
- Furikake seasoning toasted sesame seeds, or thinly sliced nori
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, white pepper, minced garlic, and ginger. Mix thoroughly.
- Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, and salt.
- Place beaten eggs in a separate bowl.
- Dip chicken pieces first into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally back into the flour mixture. This double coating ensures maximum crispiness.
- Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat about 3–4 inches of oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F.
- Fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
- For extra crispiness, rest the chicken for 5 minutes, then briefly fry again for 1–2 minutes.
- Step 4: Make Garlic Soy Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, sugar, garlic, sesame oil, Sriracha (if using), and chili flakes.
- Simmer gently until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes). Remove from heat.
- Step 5: Serve
- Toss fried chicken pieces in the glaze or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with sliced green onions, furikake, sesame seeds, or nori strips.
- Serve hot alongside steamed rice and macaroni salad for an authentic Hawaiian-style meal.
Notes
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat leftover chicken in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5–10 minutes, until crispy and warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may cause sogginess.