What is Mochiko Chicken?
Mochiko Chicken is a beloved Hawaiian dish that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. The secret? Mochiko flour, a sweet rice flour that gives the chicken its signature crunch and subtle sweetness. It’s a staple at local plate lunch spots and family gatherings across the islands.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup mochiko flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
Let’s Get Cooking!
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add to the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow dish, mix mochiko flour and cornstarch.
- Coat the chicken: Remove chicken pieces from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the mochiko-cornstarch mixture, ensuring even coating.
- Fry to perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Keep it warm: Place fried chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Keep warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish frying the remaining batches.
Ono Side Dishes
No Hawaiian-inspired family dinner is complete without these classic sides:
- Steamed Rice: Fluffy white rice is the perfect canvas for soaking up the flavors of the Mochiko Chicken.
- Hawaiian Coleslaw: Mix shredded cabbage, carrots, and pineapple chunks with a creamy dressing for a tropical twist on classic coleslaw.
- Mac Salad: Boil elbow macaroni, then toss with mayonnaise, grated carrots, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for that authentic Hawaiian plate lunch feel.
- Grilled Pineapple: Brush pineapple rings with a mixture of honey and lime juice, then grill for 2-3 minutes per side for a caramelized treat.
Serving Up Aloha
Arrange the golden Mochiko Chicken on a large platter, surrounded by your colorful side dishes. The contrast of the crispy chicken against the vibrant sides will have your family’s mouths watering before they even take a bite!
As you gather around the table, imagine the warm Hawaiian breeze and the sound of waves lapping at the shore. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a mini vacation for your taste buds!
Pro tip: Serve with small bowls of additional soy sauce and sriracha on the side for those who like an extra kick.
Mochiko Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and family. As you enjoy this crispy, savory delight with your loved ones, you’re not just sharing food – you’re creating memories that will last a lifetime.
So, are you ready to bring a taste of aloha to your dinner table? Grab your apron, crank up some Hawaiian tunes, and let’s get cooking!
