Crispy Chicken Nanban with Tangy Tartar Sauce
Chef RV Manabat adapted by JojoM
Chef RV’s Chicken Nanban — juicy Japanese fried chicken coated in sweet-savory namban sauce and topped with creamy chunky tartar. A family favorite!
Crispy Chicken Nanban with Tangy Tartar Sauce 🍗🥚
If you love Japanese fried chicken with a twist, Chicken Nanban is about to become your new favorite! Originating from Miyazaki, this dish is all about contrasts — crispy double-fried chicken glazed in a sweet-savory soy-based namban sauce, then topped with a creamy, chunky tartar sauce. Chef RV’s version brings restaurant-level flavor right to your kitchen.
What Makes Chicken Nanban Special? ✨
Unlike karaage, Chicken Nanban takes fried chicken to another level. After frying, the chicken is dipped or coated in a sweet soy glaze that balances saltiness with just enough sweetness. What truly makes it unique is the tartar sauce — Japanese-style, chunky with hard-boiled eggs, spring onions, and creamy mayo. The result? Crispy, tangy, creamy, and umami-packed bites that are irresistible.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Nanban 🔥
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
- Use cassava or potato starch for maximum crunch.
- Double fry just before serving — this ensures a crackling crust while keeping the inside juicy.
- Keep the tartar chunky, not smooth — that’s the authentic Japanese touch.
Serving Suggestions 🍚🥗
Chicken Nanban shines as a main dish with steamed rice, but you can also serve it with a side of potato salad or shredded cabbage to balance the richness. It’s a dish that works for both everyday family dinners and special gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
- Combines the best of Japanese fried chicken and creamy sauces.
- Easy enough for home cooks, yet elevated enough for dinner parties.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser — kids love the crunch, adults love the balance of flavors.
Bring Japan to your table with this crispy, tangy, and creamy delight. Once you try Chef RV’s Chicken Nanban, it just might replace your usual fried chicken night! 🍴
Crispy Chicken Nanban with Tangy Tartar Sauce
Chef RV Manabat adapted by JojoMChef RV’s Chicken Nanban — juicy Japanese fried chicken coated in sweet-savory namban sauce and topped with creamy chunky tartar. A family favorite!
Chef's Tips
Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
Use cassava or potato starch for the crispiest coating.
Double fry just before serving to keep chicken crunchy.
Keep tartar sauce chunky for authentic Japanese style.
Tools Used
Mixing Bowl
Saucepan
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Ingredients
Chicken
Tartar Sauce
Namban Sauce
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- 1
Mix chicken with ginger, salt, pepper, dashi, cornstarch, and egg.
- 2
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight.
Fry the Chicken
- 1
Dredge chicken in cassava or potato starch before frying.
- 2
Fry in hot oil until golden brown.
- 3
Drain excess oil and set aside.
- 4
Double fry just before serving for extra crunch.
Make the Tartar Sauce
- 1
Mash hard-boiled eggs with a potato masher for chunky texture.
- 2
Stir in mayonnaise, shallots, spring onions, salt, and pepper.
- 3
Add a pinch of sugar if desired.
Make the Namban Sauce
- 1
Simmer soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in a saucepan until sugar dissolves.
- 2
Add black pepper and adjust taste for balance.
Assemble & Serve
- 1
Toss fried chicken lightly in namban sauce or drizzle on top.
- 2
Serve hot with tartar sauce on the side.
- 3
Pair with steamed rice or potato salad.
Comments & Reviews
Mika
6/22/2025
This turned out super crispy! The tartar sauce really made it special.
Jerome
7/11/2025
Double frying was a game changer—crunchy outside, juicy inside.
Aya
8/2/2025
Reminds me of the Chicken Nanban I had in Miyazaki. Delicious!
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 portion (with sauce and tartar)
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
