Chicken Katsu Curry

Name: Chicken Katsu Curry
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil for frying; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening); Steamed rice; Chopped green onions (optional); Pickled ginger (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Chicken Katsu Curry is a delicious Japanese dish that combines crispy breaded chicken with a rich and flavorful curry sauce. It's a comforting meal that's perfect for any day of the week.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2025-12-21T01:26:01.951Z

This Chicken Katsu Curry recipe is inspired by traditional Japanese flavors, featuring a crispy chicken cutlet served over rice and smothered in a delectable curry sauce.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crispy chicken cutlet with a juicy interior
Savory curry sauce that complements the chicken perfectly
A comforting dish that brings a taste of Japan to your kitchen

      

The Perfect Crunch

One of the standout features of Chicken Katsu Curry is the irresistible crunch of the chicken cutlet. Achieving that perfect crispy texture is all about the panko breadcrumbs, which provide a light and airy coating. Unlike traditional breadcrumbs, panko is less dense, allowing for a beautifully crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist and juicy inside. This contrast of textures is what makes every bite so satisfying.

To ensure that your Chicken Katsu is as crispy as possible, make sure to press the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken breasts after coating them in flour and egg. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere better during frying, resulting in a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth curry sauce.

Rich and Flavorful Curry Sauce

The curry sauce is the heart of this dish, bringing a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the crispy chicken. Made from simple ingredients like onions, carrots, and garlic, the sauce develops its rich taste as it simmers. The addition of curry powder adds warmth and complexity, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to customize the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. This flexibility allows you to tailor the sauce to your liking, ensuring that every bite is just right for your palate.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Chicken Katsu Curry is an opportunity to elevate your dining experience. A generous portion of steamed rice acts as the perfect base, soaking up the delicious curry sauce and providing a neutral backdrop for the flavorful chicken. For added freshness, consider garnishing your dish with chopped green onions or a side of pickled ginger. These elements not only enhance the presentation but also add layers of flavor that complement the richness of the curry.

For a more complete meal, you might want to serve a simple side salad or steamed vegetables alongside your Chicken Katsu Curry. This can enhance the nutritional value of the dish and provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the curry.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Katsu

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Curry Sauce

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For Serving

Steamed rice
Chopped green onions (optional)
Pickled ginger (optional)

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before starting the cooking process for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Katsu

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.

Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Make the Curry Sauce

In the same skillet, add vegetable oil and sauté onions and carrots until soft. Add garlic and curry powder, cooking for an additional minute. Pour in chicken broth and soy sauce, then bring to a simmer.

Thicken the Sauce

Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Slice the chicken katsu and serve over steamed rice. Pour the curry sauce over the chicken and rice. Garnish with green onions and pickled ginger if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Katsu Curry!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly will ensure that they remain delicious for your next meal. Allow the chicken katsu to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. The curry sauce can be stored separately to prevent the chicken from getting soggy. Both components can be refrigerated for up to three days.

When reheating, it’s best to use the oven or an air fryer to restore the chicken's crispiness. Simply preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and reheat the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, checking to make sure it’s heated through without drying out.

Variations of Chicken Katsu Curry

While this recipe showcases the classic version of Chicken Katsu Curry, there are many variations you can explore. For instance, you can swap chicken for pork or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The cooking method remains the same, ensuring a satisfying crunch and flavorful sauce no matter the protein you choose.

Additionally, consider experimenting with different vegetables in the curry sauce. Adding bell peppers, peas, or even sweet potatoes can create a unique twist while enhancing the nutritional content of the dish. The versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own while still enjoying the comforting essence of Chicken Katsu Curry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Chicken Katsu Curry in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the curry sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use tofu or eggplant for a vegetarian option.

→ How spicy is the curry?

The curry is mild, but you can add chili powder or fresh chilies for extra heat.

→ Can I use store-bought curry sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought curry sauce for convenience, but homemade offers a fresher flavor.