Hawaiian Mochiko Chicken is a flavorful and crispy fried chicken dish that combines tender pieces of marinated chicken with a light and crunchy coating made from mochiko (sweet rice flour). This popular Hawaiian dish is known for its sweet and savory marinade, which typically includes soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger, giving the chicken a delicious umami-rich flavor. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course, mochiko chicken is a beloved local favorite in Hawaii. It’s best served hot with rice and a side of mac salad, making it a tasty and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mochiko (sweet rice flour)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, ginger, eggs, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir in the mochiko and cornstarch to create a thick marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and let it come to room temperature for a few minutes. Working in batches, carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and serve: Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with rice and your favorite dipping sauces, garnished with green onions if desired.
This Hawaiian Mochiko Chicken is crispy, flavorful, and irresistibly good, making it a must-try dish that brings a taste of the islands to your table!
