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 chicken thighs; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil for frying; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 potatoes, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; Steamed rice; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A delightful Japanese dish that combines crispy chicken cutlets with a rich and flavorful curry sauce.

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-23T00:18:43.110Z

Chicken Katsu Curry is a comforting dish that perfectly balances the crunch of fried chicken with the warmth of curry sauce. It is a popular choice for families and a staple in Japanese cuisine.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy chicken cutlets add a satisfying crunch
Rich and aromatic curry sauce complements the chicken perfectly
Perfectly served over steamed rice for a complete meal

      

The Essence of Chicken Katsu Curry

Chicken Katsu Curry is a beloved staple in Japanese cuisine, blending the textures and flavors of crispy fried chicken with a savory curry sauce. The dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Its vibrant colors and enticing aroma are sure to whet your appetite before the first bite.

What sets Chicken Katsu apart from other fried chicken dishes is the use of panko breadcrumbs, which create an ultra-crispy coating that locks in moisture and flavor. The fusion of the crunchy texture with the creamy curry sauce enhances the overall dining experience, making every mouthful an adventure for your taste buds.

Customizing Your Katsu Curry

One of the great things about Chicken Katsu Curry is its versatility. You can easily customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the level of spiciness in the curry sauce. Consider incorporating seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or even add a kick with extra chili powder for those who prefer a spicier version.

Additionally, you can substitute chicken thighs with other proteins such as pork or tofu, making it accessible for various dietary preferences. This adaptability means that you can enjoy this comforting dish regardless of your lifestyle or preferences.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chicken Katsu Curry experience, consider serving it with a side of pickled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad. The acidity of pickles complements the richness of the curry, providing a balanced meal that tantalizes the palate. Furthermore, a light salad can add a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the crispy chicken and savory sauce.

For a truly authentic experience, use short-grain Japanese rice, which has a sticky texture that pairs perfectly with the curry sauce. Make sure to garnish your dish with chopped green onions or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a touch of flair.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Katsu

4 boneless chicken thighs
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

1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon honey

To Serve

Steamed rice
Chopped green onions for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.

Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside on paper towels to drain.

Make the Curry Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add garlic, carrots, and potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes. Stir in curry powder and cook for 1 minute.

Simmer the Sauce

Add chicken broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.

Serve

Slice the chicken katsu and serve over steamed rice, topped with the curry sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Katsu Curry!

Tips for Perfecting Your Katsu

To achieve the perfect chicken katsu, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is not hot, the chicken may absorb too much oil and become greasy. A good test is to drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it bubbles up immediately, the oil is ready for frying.

Also, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying the chicken. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure each cutlet gets an even, golden-brown crust. Allowing the chicken to rest on paper towels afterward helps absorb any excess oil, resulting in a crispy finish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, storing them correctly is crucial to maintaining flavor and texture. Place the chicken katsu and curry sauce in separate airtight containers. The katsu can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, while the curry sauce can last up to a week.

When reheating, consider using an oven for the katsu to restore its crispiness. Place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. For the curry, gently heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs are juicier and more flavorful.

→ Is this dish spicy?

No, Chicken Katsu Curry is generally mild, but you can adjust the curry powder to your taste.

→ Can I make the curry sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The curry sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Katsu Curry?

It pairs well with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a simple salad.