Dinner

Crispy Chicken Tempura Recipe

Name: Crispy Chicken Tempura Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into strips; 2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 5 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1 cup cold sparkling water; Vegetable oil, for frying; Preferred dipping sauce (optional)

ByClara Bennett September 23, 2026September 23, 2026

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Introduction

Chicken Tempura is a light and crispy Japanese-style fried chicken that’s perfect for a tasty snack or appetizer. The batter is airy thanks to sparkling water, giving the chicken a delicate crunch that’s hard to resist. It’s quick to prepare and a great way to bring a bit of Japanese flavor to your kitchen.

A white round plate with ridged edges holds a pile of golden-brown fried chicken strips that look crispy and crunchy, arranged loosely around a small white round bowl filled with bright red dipping sauce placed on the right side of the plate, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breasts
2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
5 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup cold sparkling water
Vegetable oil for frying
Preferred dipping sauce (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the chicken breasts into strips and place them in a bowl. Add soy sauce, salt, and black pepper, then toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate while you prepare the batter.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, and baking soda. Add the beaten egg and cold sparkling water, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
Step 3: Optionally, dust the marinated chicken lightly with extra flour to help the batter adhere better. Dip each chicken strip into the batter, letting the excess drip off.
Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the battered chicken in small batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until the batter is golden and crisp and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Remove the fried chicken and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use ice-cold sparkling water to make the batter extra crispy and light.
Try adding a pinch of garlic powder or ginger to the flour mixture for additional flavor.
Serve with classic tempura dipping sauce or a spicy mayo for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tempura in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the batter soggy.