Chicken Katsu Curry

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

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A delightful fusion of crispy chicken and aromatic curry, Chicken Katsu Curry is a comforting dish that brings together Japanese flavors in a unique way.

Created by

Amelia Roberts

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:01:02.714Z

Chicken Katsu Curry is a beloved dish in Japan, combining two comfort foods into one delightful meal. The crispy chicken cutlet paired with a rich and flavorful curry sauce makes this dish a favorite among families and food lovers alike. Whether served over rice or with a side of vegetables, this dish is sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy, golden chicken with a tender interior
Rich and savory curry sauce that enhances the flavor
Easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner

      

The Origins of Chicken Katsu Curry

Chicken Katsu Curry is a beloved dish in Japan that combines the best of two culinary worlds: the crispy fried chicken known as 'katsu' and a rich, flavorful curry. This dish has been adapted and embraced by food lovers globally, often served in homes and restaurants alike. The origins of katsu are traced back to Western influences on Japanese cuisine, particularly in the late 19th century, when breaded and fried meat became popular.

The curry component is influenced by Indian and British curries, which were introduced to Japan in the late 1800s. Over time, Japanese curry has developed its own unique flavor profile, characterized by a mild, slightly sweet taste that complements the savory katsu perfectly. Together, these elements create a comforting meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

Perfecting the Crispy Chicken

Achieving the perfect crispy chicken katsu is all about the technique. Start by ensuring your chicken breasts are of even thickness, which allows for uniform cooking. Seasoning the chicken well before breading is crucial, as it enhances the overall flavor of the dish. The panko breadcrumbs provide an irresistible crunch, making each bite a delightful experience.

Frying the chicken at the right temperature is also vital. Too hot, and the breadcrumbs will burn before the chicken cooks through; too cool, and you'll end up with greasy, soggy katsu. Using a thermometer can help you maintain the ideal frying temperature, ensuring your chicken is golden brown and perfectly cooked every time.

Customizing Your Curry Sauce

The beauty of this Chicken Katsu Curry recipe lies in its versatility. While the basic curry sauce is rich and satisfying, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or even potatoes can enhance the texture and flavor profile of the sauce. Experimenting with different spices or adding a splash of coconut milk can create a unique twist that makes the dish your own.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider incorporating chili powder or fresh chili peppers into the curry. Balancing the sweetness of the honey with additional spices allows you to tailor the dish to your preference. Don't hesitate to make it your signature recipe by adjusting the ingredients to reflect your personal tastes.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Katsu

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

For the Curry Sauce

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

To Serve

Cooked rice
Chopped green onions (optional)

Gather all ingredients before starting your cooking process for a smooth experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each 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 let drain on paper towels.

Make the Curry Sauce

In the same skillet, add vegetable oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the carrots and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Stir in the curry powder and cook for 1 minute.

Combine and Thicken

Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey. Bring to a simmer and stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Slice the fried chicken and serve it over a bed of rice, topped with the curry sauce. Garnish with green onions if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Katsu Curry!

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Katsu Curry is best served over a steaming bed of fluffy rice. The rice not only complements the rich curry sauce but also helps to balance out the flavors. Whether you opt for white rice, brown rice, or even a fragrant jasmine rice, the choice is yours. Garnishing with chopped green onions adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

For a complete meal, consider serving a side of pickled vegetables or a simple salad. These additions provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty curry and can make your dining experience even more enjoyable. Pairing your meal with a light Japanese beer or green tea can also enhance the flavors.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing Chicken Katsu Curry is easy and convenient. Allow the chicken and curry to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. The chicken katsu can be stored separately from the curry sauce to maintain its crispiness. Properly stored, it will last in the refrigerator for up to three days.

When reheating, aim to keep the chicken crispy. Place the chicken in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore its crunch. The curry can be reheated on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. With these tips, you can enjoy this comforting dish even days after its initial preparation.

Meal Prep Tips

Chicken Katsu Curry is a fantastic option for meal prepping. You can prepare the chicken katsu and curry sauce in advance, storing them separately until you're ready to eat. This allows for quick assembly on busy weeknights. Consider cooking a larger batch of rice to have on hand throughout the week, making it even easier to enjoy this dish anytime.

For added convenience, you can freeze portions of the curry sauce and cooked chicken katsu. Just be mindful that the chicken may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating. However, the flavors will still be delightful, making it an excellent choice for those looking to save time in the kitchen without sacrificing taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and provide a juicier texture.

→ Is this dish spicy?

No, it has a mild flavor, but you can adjust the curry powder to your taste.

→ Can I make the curry sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Katsu Curry?

It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple salad.