A Japanese Classic You Can Make at Home
If you’re a fan of crispy, golden-fried chicken with a deliciously juicy center, then Chicken Katsu is a must-try dish. This Japanese favorite is beloved for its light and crunchy panko coating paired with a tangy tonkatsu sauce. Whether you serve it with steamed rice, shredded cabbage, or in a sandwich, this simple recipe brings authentic Japanese flavors right to your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Katsu
✔ Crispy Perfection – The panko coating gives it an irresistible crunch. ✔ Easy & Quick – Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a perfect weeknight meal. ✔ Versatile & Delicious – Enjoy it with rice, curry, or in a sandwich. ✔ Authentic Japanese Flavor – A restaurant-quality dish you can make at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
Tonkatsu sauce (for serving)
Steamed rice and shredded cabbage (optional sides)
How to Make Chicken Katsu
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Flatten the chicken – Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of ½ inch.
Season well – Sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Set up the breading station – Place flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.
Bread the chicken – First, dredge each piece in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure full coverage.
Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat the oil – In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the chicken – Carefully place the breaded chicken in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Drain & rest – Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 4: Slice & Serve
Cut into strips – Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes, then slice into even pieces.
Drizzle with tonkatsu sauce – Serve with steamed rice and shredded cabbage for a traditional touch.
Tips for the Best Chicken Katsu
✅ Use panko breadcrumbs – They create a lighter, crispier coating than regular breadcrumbs. ✅ Keep oil at the right temperature – Too hot, and the coating burns; too cool, and the chicken absorbs excess oil. ✅ Double-coat for extra crunch – Dip the chicken in egg and panko a second time for a thicker, crispier crust.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken Katsu with Japanese curry, miso soup, or a fresh cucumber salad. You can also use it as a filling for a katsu sandwich, layered with cabbage and tonkatsu sauce.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Katsu is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of Japan straight to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a homemade Japanese meal, this crispy delight is always a hit!
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Japan at home!