Crispy Chicken Katsu with Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce

Name: Crispy Chicken Katsu with Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts (pounded to 1 cm thickness); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs (beaten); 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp mirin

40 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Delicious Japanese-style chicken katsu served with a tangy homemade tonkatsu sauce, perfect over rice with shredded cabbage.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Chicken katsu is a beloved Japanese dish that marries the succulent taste of chicken with the satisfying crunch of panko breadcrumbs. Originating from Japan, this dish has become a favourite in many households around the world. The magic of chicken katsu lies in its simplicity and its ability to pair well with a variety of sides. Whether served over rice or alongside shredded cabbage, the crispy exterior and juicy interior make it a dish that pleases both children and adults alike. The homemade tonkatsu sauce adds a tangy, umami-rich flavour that perfectly complements the fried chicken.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken breasts to an even 1 cm thickness using a meat mallet.

Pro tip: This ensures even cooking.

Set Up Breading Station

In separate dishes, place flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.

Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then dip in eggs, and coat with panko. Press panko firmly to adhere.

Pro tip: Ensure even coating for maximum crispiness.

Heat Oil

Heat 2 cm of oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C).

Pro tip: Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature.

Fry Chicken

Fry each piece for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when probed in the thickest part.

Rest and Serve

Place fried chicken on a wire rack to drain and rest for 5 minutes.

Pro tip: This keeps the chicken crispy.

Prepare Tonkatsu Sauce

Mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and mirin in a bowl until smooth.

Pro tip: Prepare ahead to deepen flavours.

Serve

Slice chicken katsu and serve over rice with shredded cabbage. Drizzle with tonkatsu sauce.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a meat mallet to ensure even thickness of chicken for uniform cooking.
Preheat your oil to the correct temperature for optimal crispiness.
Rest the fried chicken on a wire rack to maintain crispiness.
Make the tonkatsu sauce in advance to allow flavours to meld.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chicken katsu?

Chicken katsu is a Japanese dish consisting of breaded and fried chicken cutlets, typically served with tonkatsu sauce.

How do you make katsu sauce?

Mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and mirin for a homemade tonkatsu sauce.

How long to cook chicken katsu?

Fry each chicken cutlet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

What temperature should chicken katsu be cooked to?

Chicken katsu should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when probed in the thickest part.

Can I make chicken katsu in advance?

Yes, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to a day before frying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken katsu hot over a bed of fluffy white rice, accompanied by shredded cabbage for a refreshing crunch. Drizzle with the homemade tonkatsu sauce for an added layer of flavour. To make ahead, you can prepare the chicken by breading it and storing it in the fridge for up to a day before frying. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.