Introduction: What Is Chicken Katsu?
Chicken Katsu (γγγ³γ«γ) is a beloved Japanese dish consisting of a crispy, golden-brown breaded chicken cutlet. Simple yet satisfying, itβs a staple in Japanese home cooking and popular in restaurants worldwide. Accompanied by tonkatsu sauce and a side of shredded cabbage or rice, Chicken Katsu delivers an ideal mix of crispy texture, rich flavor, and juicy tenderness.
Whether youβre a fan of Japanese cuisine or just looking for a new way to enjoy chicken, this recipe will become one of your go-to favorites.
Table of Contents
Ingredients β What Youβll Need
For 2β4 servings:
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- Β½ teaspoon salt
- Β½ teaspoon black pepper
- Β½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (Japanese breadcrumbs)
- Oil for deep or shallow frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
- Tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Lemon wedges and shredded cabbage (optional, for serving)

How to Make Chicken Katsu β Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Gently cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create two thin, even cutlets. Gently pound them with a meat mallet to ensure even thickness, then season both sides with salt and pepper.Served with tonkatsu sauce and a side of shredded cabbage or rice, Chicken Katsu offers the perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and tenderness.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Set up your breading station by lining up three shallow bowls or plates side by side:
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- Beaten eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
Dredge each cutlet in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then coat thoroughly with panko.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden
Warm oil in a skillet over medium heat (around 360Β°F / 185Β°C). Cook the chicken cutlets for 5β10 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips. Serve warm alongside tonkatsu sauce, lemon wedges, and a side of shredded cabbage or steamed rice.

Health Benefits of Chicken Katsu (When Moderated)
Though fried, Chicken Katsu can be part of a balanced meal:
- High in Protein: Each cutlet is packed with lean protein from chicken breast.
- Customizable: Bake or air-fry for a lighter version.
- Cabbage Side Dish: Commonly paired with cabbage, which provides fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.Serve warm alongside tonkatsu sauce, lemon wedges, and a side of shredded cabbage or steamed rice..
- Controlled Portions: Easy to portion and pair with healthy sides.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving β 1 cutlet with sauce)
Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 400β500 kcal |
Protein | 25β30 g |
Carbohydrates | 20β30 g |
Fat | 20β25 g |
Sodium | 500β700 mg |
Values vary based on frying method and sauce quantity.
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Serving Suggestions
Chicken Katsu pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed white rice or Japanese curry
- Miso soup and pickled vegetables
- Cabbage salad with sesame dressing
- Bento box with rice, tamagoyaki, and edamame

Storage and Reheating
- Keep leftovers refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness (avoid microwave if possible).
- Freeze: Breaded but uncooked cutlets can be frozen and fried later.
Variations to Try
- Chicken Katsu Curry: Plate the crispy chicken over steamed rice and generously spoon Japanese curry sauce on top.
- Cheese Katsu: Add cheese between two thin cutlets before breading.
- Spicy Katsu: Mix chili flakes or sriracha into the tonkatsu sauce.
- Baked Katsu: Bake at 425Β°F (220Β°C) until crispy (about 25 minutes), flipping once.
Conclusion: Why Youβll Love Chicken Katsu
Crispy, juicy, and deeply satisfying, Chicken Katsu is a Japanese comfort food thatβs easy to make and always a hit. With a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can bring this restaurant-quality favorite to your kitchen table. Perfect for weeknight dinners, bento lunches, or meal prep!