Get ready to transform your kitchen into a tropical paradise with this irresistible Air Fryer Mochiko Chicken that'll make your taste buds dance! Imagine perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces with a delightful Hawaiian twist, cooked to perfection in just minutes. This recipe takes the traditional mochiko chicken and elevates it with the convenience of an air fryer, creating a dish that's not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 500 grams chicken thighs, cut into pieces
- 1 cup mochiko flour
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger powder
- Oil spray for air frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mochiko flour, soy sauce, sugar, garlic powder, and ginger powder to create a smooth marinade.
- Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, approximately 2-inch chunks, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade, thoroughly coating each piece. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Remove marinated chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes.
- Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Work in batches if necessary.
- Spray chicken lightly with oil to help achieve crispy exterior.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Check internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from air fryer and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or side salad.
Tips
- Marinate Patience is Key: For the most flavorful results, let the chicken marinate overnight. This allows the mochiko flour and seasonings to fully penetrate the meat.
- Room Temperature Matters: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and a more consistent texture.
- Don't Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the air fryer basket prevents proper air circulation and can result in uneven cooking.
- Oil Spray Trick: A light spray of oil on the chicken helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Serving Suggestion: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 130mg
