Golden Fried Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce

Golden Fried Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce is a crispy, comforting, and flavor-packed Japanese classic. Tender chicken cutlets are breaded in crunchy panko and fried to golden perfection, then topped with a tangy-sweet homemade tonkatsu sauce. Whether served with rice, shredded cabbage, or tucked into a sandwich, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and juicy: The chicken stays tender inside with a perfectly golden, crunchy coating.
• Easy to make at home: With a few pantry staples and simple steps, you’ll master this takeout favorite.
• Versatile meal: Serve with rice, noodles, or in a sandwich—it’s delicious every way.
• Kid- and crowd-friendly: Familiar, flavorful, and satisfying for everyone at the table.
• Homemade tonkatsu sauce: Sweet, salty, and tangy—better than anything from a bottle.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken katsu:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Neutral oil, for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the tonkatsu sauce:

• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Mirin (optional)
• Grated ginger
• Minced garlic

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken:
   Pound the chicken breasts to about ½ inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Set up the dredging station:
   Place flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in three separate shallow dishes.
3. Bread the chicken:
   Dredge each cutlet in flour, then egg, then press firmly into panko to coat completely.
4. Fry:
   Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
5. Make the tonkatsu sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, ginger, and garlic until smooth.
6. Serve:
   Slice katsu into strips and drizzle with tonkatsu sauce. Serve with shredded cabbage, steamed rice, and optional lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy katsu: Layer sliced cheese between two thin cutlets before breading.
• Spicy twist: Add chili powder or cayenne to the flour for extra heat.
• Pork katsu: Substitute pork loin for the chicken for a traditional tonkatsu.
• Air fryer version: Spray the breaded chicken with oil and air fry at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Katsu sando: Sandwich sliced katsu between milk bread with shredded cabbage and extra sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze breaded (uncooked) or cooked katsu on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F or in an air fryer until hot and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work great and are even juicier.

What is tonkatsu sauce made of?

A mix of ketchup, Worcestershire, soy sauce, brown sugar, and optional mirin, garlic, and ginger.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, bake at 425°F for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, or use an air fryer.

What’s the best oil for frying katsu?

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

How do I get the breading extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and press them in firmly when coating the chicken.

Can I make the sauce ahead?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.

Is this gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can use gluten-free flour, soy sauce, and breadcrumbs.

What sides go with chicken katsu?

Shredded cabbage, white rice, pickled vegetables, or miso soup are classic sides.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Do I need a thermometer?

It helps! Cook chicken to 165°F internal temp and keep oil around 350°F for best frying results.

Conclusion

Golden Fried Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce is a crispy, comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. With juicy chicken, a crunchy coating, and bold, savory-sweet sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress on any occasion. Try it once, and it’ll earn a spot in your regular recipe rotation.

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