Easy Chicken Katsu Recipe

Name: Easy Chicken Katsu Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; All-purpose flour; Eggs; Panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil (for frying); Low-sodium soy sauce (for serving)

Recipe By:

Emily Harrison

Posted:

March 4, 2025

Updated:

March 4, 2025

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Have you ever craved something both crunchy and tender? Chicken Katsu perfectly blends these textures into one delicious dish. Imagine a succulent piece of chicken breast coated in golden breadcrumbs, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. The savory aroma fills the air as it cooks, teasing your taste buds with hints of garlic and soy sauce.

This dish is not only a delight to the senses but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a main course with rice and vegetables or slice it up for a tasty sandwich. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, Chicken Katsu promises to impress your guests while being easy enough to prepare on a weeknight. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Katsu

Quick and Easy Preparation: You can whip up this dish in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Deliciously Versatile: Whether served with rice or tucked into a sandwich, Chicken Katsu adapts beautifully to various meals and occasions.
Crispy Texture: The double-breading technique results in an irresistibly crunchy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the juicy chicken inside.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Chicken Katsu

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: For best results, choose fresh chicken breasts that are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking.
All-Purpose Flour: This will help the egg wash adhere better to the chicken, creating that perfect crunchy coating.
Eggs: Beaten eggs serve as the binding agent that holds the breadcrumbs onto the chicken.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs create an extra crispy texture that elevates your dish.
Vegetable Oil: Use enough oil for frying; aim for about half an inch deep in your pan for optimal frying conditions.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still achieving rich flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Katsu

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Pan

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the oil heats up, place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them gently until they are about half an inch thick.

Step 3: Breading Station Setup

Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Season each component with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken first in flour, then dip in eggs before coating generously with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 5: Frying the Chicken

Carefully place each breaded piece into the hot oil. Cook until golden brown on both sides—approximately three to four minutes per side.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F or 74°C), transfer your Chicken Katsu to paper towels to drain excess oil before slicing.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For maximum crunchiness, always opt for panko instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Pound Evenly: Ensure your chicken is evenly pounded so it cooks uniformly without drying out.
Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; this ensures juicy perfection inside.

Mistakes to avoid

Skipping the Marination Step: One common mistake people make when preparing Chicken Katsu is skipping the marination step. Marinating the chicken not only enhances its flavor but also helps in tenderizing the meat. A simple marinade of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger can elevate your dish significantly. If you rush this step, your Chicken Katsu may end up bland and less enjoyable. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marination for the best results.
Using the Wrong Cut of Chicken: Many home cooks mistakenly use chicken breasts or thighs interchangeably for their Chicken Katsu. While both cuts are delicious, they have different textures and cooking times. For crispy results, opt for boneless chicken thighs which are juicier and less likely to dry out during frying. Using chicken breasts can lead to a drier texture if not cooked properly.
Not Prepping the Breading Ingredients Properly: Another frequent error is not preparing the breading station correctly. To achieve that perfect crunch, set up three separate bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and another for panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each ingredient is seasoned well. This allows the breading process to adhere properly to the chicken, resulting in a beautifully crispy exterior after frying.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Katsu is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, the fluffy texture of steamed rice complements the crispy chicken perfectly. Drizzle some tonkatsu sauce over the rice to enhance the flavors.
Shredded Cabbage Salad: A refreshing cabbage salad adds a crunchy contrast to the rich katsu. Toss shredded cabbage with a light vinaigrette for a bright side dish.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup rounds out the meal nicely. The savory broth provides comfort while balancing the flavors of the Chicken Katsu.

FAQs

What is Chicken Katsu?

Chicken Katsu is a popular Japanese dish made from breaded and deep-fried chicken cutlets. The chicken is typically coated in panko breadcrumbs, which give it a light and crispy texture. It is often served with tonkatsu sauce, a sweet and tangy condiment that enhances the dish’s flavor profile. Enjoyed by many, Chicken Katsu can be served over rice or alongside salads.

How do I make Chicken Katsu crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispiness in Chicken Katsu, ensure you use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko adds an airy crunch that elevates the dish. Also, frying the chicken at the right temperature—around 350°F—ensures even cooking and reduces oil absorption. Lastly, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to maintain heat levels.

Can I bake Chicken Katsu instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake Chicken Katsu for a healthier version! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with cooking oil to help achieve that golden color. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway for even browning.

What should I serve with Chicken Katsu?

You can serve Chicken Katsu with various sides to complement its flavors. Popular choices include steamed rice, miso soup, or pickled vegetables. For a lighter option, pair it with a simple green salad or coleslaw dressed in sesame vinaigrette.

Conclusion for Chicken Katsu

In summary, Chicken Katsu is an easy-to-make yet delicious dish that brings together crispy breaded chicken and savory tonkatsu sauce. With serving suggestions like steamed rice and fresh salads, this meal offers both comfort and variety. Whether you fry or bake your chicken cutlet, you’ll enjoy a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will impress your family and friends alike. Try making this popular Japanese favorite at home today and savor each bite!