Dinner

Crispy Japanese-Style Chicken Burgers Recipe

ByNoah Steele November 10, 2025November 10, 2025

Introduction

These crispy Japanese-style chicken burgers are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Marinated in a flavorful blend of mirin, soy, garlic, and ginger, the chicken thighs are coated and fried to golden perfection. Served with a zesty mayonnaise and fresh lettuce, they make a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Four sandwiches sit on a worn white wooden board set on a white marbled texture. Each sandwich has a sprinkled sesame seed soft white bun on top. Inside, the first layer is bright green leafy lettuce, followed by a creamy light sauce visible beneath the lettuce. The main filling is crispy fried golden-brown chicken pieces that look crunchy and thick. On the left side of the board is a small white bowl filled with a white creamy sauce, with a white spoon resting inside it. The bundle of sandwiches looks fresh and inviting, with some small bits of lettuce scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp mirin
3 garlic cloves, crushed

1 tbsp soy sauce
Thumb-sized piece ginger, peeled and finely grated

100g mayonnaise
8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips

100g cornflour
Sunflower oil, for frying
4 large or 8 small soft burger rolls

2 Baby Gem lettuces, shredded

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the mirin, crushed garlic, soy sauce, and grated ginger in a bowl to create the marinade.
Step 2: Combine 1 tablespoon of the marinade with the mayonnaise, then cover and chill.

Step 3: Place the chicken strips in a large bowl, pour over the remaining marinade, and let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes, or refrigerate longer if possible for deeper flavor.
Step 4: Spread the cornflour on a plate and roll the marinated chicken pieces in it until evenly coated.
Step 5: Heat 2cm of sunflower oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Carefully add one-third of the chicken pieces and fry for about 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is crisp and cooked through.

Step 6: Remove the cooked chicken from the oil and set aside on kitchen paper to drain. Repeat frying with the remaining chicken.
Step 7: Serve the crispy chicken in the burger rolls topped with the chilled mayonnaise and shredded lettuce.

Tips & Variations

For an extra kick, add a little sriracha or chili sauce to the mayonnaise.

Use chicken breast strips if you prefer a leaner option, though thighs tend to stay juicier.
Try adding pickled cucumber or red onion for crunch and tang.
If you don’t have cornflour, potato starch or plain flour can be used as a coating alternative.

Storage

Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. Assemble burgers fresh before serving for the best texture.