Crispy Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce is a beloved Japanese comfort food featuring golden, breaded chicken cutlets fried to perfection. Juicy on the inside and delightfully crunchy on the outside, it’s served with a bold, tangy-sweet sauce and fresh lime wedges. This dish is both satisfying and simple, making it a great weeknight dinner or a special treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal ingredients. The panko crust ensures a light, crisp bite, while the chicken stays moist and tender. The homemade tonkatsu sauce adds a savory-sweet depth that complements the richness of the fried cutlet. It’s an approachable way to bring Japanese flavors to your table and makes an excellent main dish that pleases both kids and adults alike.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• salt and pepper
• all-purpose flour
• large eggs
• panko breadcrumbs
• vegetable oil
• lime wedges

For Tonkatsu Sauce:

• ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• soy sauce
• mirin (or rice vinegar + pinch of sugar)
• Dijon mustard
• garlic powder

directions

1. Pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare a breading station with three shallow dishes: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third.
3. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat thoroughly in panko, pressing the crumbs onto the surface to adhere.
4. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain.
6. While the chicken cooks, whisk together the tonkatsu sauce ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
7. Slice the chicken into strips. Serve hot with a generous side of tonkatsu sauce and lime wedges for squeezing.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use pork: Substitute pork cutlets for an authentic Japanese tonkatsu version.
• Spice it up: Add a bit of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the flour or tonkatsu sauce for extra heat.
• Bake instead of fry: For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway.
• Serve with rice or cabbage: Traditional accompaniments include steamed white rice or finely shredded cabbage with a drizzle of sesame dressing.
• Try different sauces: Katsu pairs well with Japanese curry or a wasabi mayo dip for variation.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until crisp and heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy texture.
The tonkatsu sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to a week.

FAQs

What’s the difference between katsu and tonkatsu?

“Katsu” refers to a breaded and fried cutlet, typically made from chicken or pork. “Tonkatsu” specifically means pork cutlet and also refers to the signature sauce often served with it.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are more flavorful and remain juicy when fried. They work well in this recipe.

What is panko, and can I substitute it?

Panko is Japanese-style breadcrumb known for its light, airy texture. You can substitute with regular breadcrumbs, but the result will be less crispy.

Is tonkatsu sauce the same as BBQ sauce?

Not exactly. Tonkatsu sauce is sweeter and tangier with a distinct umami flavor from ingredients like Worcestershire and soy sauce.

Can I make tonkatsu sauce ahead of time?

Yes, tonkatsu sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 week when stored in an airtight container.

What oil is best for frying katsu?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I freeze chicken katsu?

Yes. Freeze the breaded (but uncooked) chicken on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

How do I ensure even cooking?

Pound the chicken to an even thickness to help it cook uniformly and avoid overcooking thinner parts.

What sides go well with chicken katsu?

Serve with steamed rice, shredded cabbage, miso soup, or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced meal.

Is this dish suitable for kids?

Yes, chicken katsu is mild in flavor and typically well-received by children. You can omit the garlic powder or adjust the sauce to make it more kid-friendly.

Conclusion

Crispy Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the best of texture and taste. Its golden panko crust and savory dipping sauce make it a standout meal that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re new to Japanese cuisine or looking for a new dinner staple, this recipe delivers every time.

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