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!
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.
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.
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.
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! 🍴
Chef RV’s Chicken Nanban — juicy Japanese fried chicken coated in sweet-savory namban sauce and topped with creamy chunky tartar. A family favorite!

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.
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Mix chicken with ginger, salt, pepper, dashi, cornstarch, and egg.
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight.
Dredge chicken in cassava or potato starch before frying.
Fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Drain excess oil and set aside.
Double fry just before serving for extra crunch.
Mash hard-boiled eggs with a potato masher for chunky texture.
Stir in mayonnaise, shallots, spring onions, salt, and pepper.
Add a pinch of sugar if desired.
Simmer soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in a saucepan until sugar dissolves.
Add black pepper and adjust taste for balance.
Toss fried chicken lightly in namban sauce or drizzle on top.
Serve hot with tartar sauce on the side.
Pair with steamed rice or potato salad.
8/2/2025
Reminds me of the Chicken Nanban I had in Miyazaki. Delicious!
7/11/2025
Double frying was a game changer—crunchy outside, juicy inside.
6/22/2025
This turned out super crispy! The tartar sauce really made it special.
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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.
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Jalalsamfit (adapted by JojoM)