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; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil, for frying; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 potatoes, diced; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 tablespoons cornstarch, mixed with water (for thickening); Steamed rice; Chopped green onions, for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Enjoy the delightful combination of crispy chicken and rich curry sauce in this Chicken Katsu Curry recipe.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2025-12-23T03:06:34.558Z

Chicken Katsu Curry is a beloved Japanese dish that combines the crunch of breaded chicken with a luscious curry sauce. It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for any night of the week!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy chicken cutlets that are juicy on the inside
Rich and savory curry sauce that elevates the dish
Perfect for serving with rice for a complete meal

      

A Flavorful Fusion of Textures

Chicken Katsu Curry is a perfect dish that balances the crispy texture of fried chicken with the smooth, hearty sauce of curry. The contrast of textures not only makes each bite an exciting experience but also ensures that the flavors meld beautifully. The juicy chicken cutlets soaked in curry sauce create a delightful sensation that is hard to resist.

The use of panko breadcrumbs is key in achieving that signature crunch of chicken katsu. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, panko is lighter and flakier, resulting in a crispier coating when fried. This texture enhances the overall enjoyment of the dish, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

An Easy Weeknight Meal

One of the best aspects of Chicken Katsu Curry is its simplicity. Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish can be prepared quickly, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in less than an hour.

Moreover, this dish is versatile. You can customize the curry sauce by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your family's preferences. This adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for those looking to minimize meal prep while still enjoying a hearty and delicious dinner.

Perfect Pairings

Chicken Katsu Curry is traditionally served with steamed rice, which acts as the ideal base for soaking up the rich curry sauce. The fluffy rice complements the dish beautifully, balancing out the flavors and adding an element of comfort. You can also consider serving it with a side of pickled vegetables for an extra crunch and acidity, which can enhance the overall meal experience.

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, a light salad with a citrus dressing can be a refreshing companion to the rich curry. The acidity from the citrus helps to cut through the richness of the dish, providing a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Katsu

4 boneless chicken thighs
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 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 potatoes, diced
2 tablespoons curry powder
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons cornstarch, mixed with water (for thickening)

For Serving

Steamed rice
Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

How to Make Chicken Katsu Curry

Prepare the Chicken Katsu

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

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and slice into strips.

Make the Curry Sauce

In a separate pot, sauté the onion until translucent. Add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for a few minutes.

Stir in the curry powder, then add the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Whisk in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Place a serving of steamed rice on each plate. Top with sliced chicken katsu and generously pour over the curry sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Katsu Curry!

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Katsu

To achieve the perfect chicken katsu, ensure that the chicken thighs are pounded to an even thickness before breading. This ensures that they cook evenly and remain juicy inside. Additionally, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; a drop of water should sizzle when it hits the oil. This prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil and keeps it crispy.

If you want to keep the chicken crispy longer, consider serving the katsu on a wire rack rather than directly on a plate after frying. This allows air circulation and helps maintain that delicious crunch until it's time to serve.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and curry sauce separately to keep the katsu crispy. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The curry sauce can also be stored in a separate container, and it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

When reheating, place the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness. The curry sauce can be warmed on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Just be careful not to overheat it to maintain the right consistency.

Variations to Try

While traditional Chicken Katsu Curry is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations to explore. You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option or even try using pork cutlets for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using eggplant or tofu, which can be breaded and fried similarly to the chicken.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, add some chili powder or fresh chilies to the curry sauce. This will give it an extra kick and make it even more exciting. Don't hesitate to experiment with spices and ingredients to create a version of this dish that suits your personal taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be less juicy.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

No, the curry powder used is mild. You can add chili powder for heat.

→ Can I make the curry sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the curry sauce can be made in advance and reheated before serving.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Katsu Curry?

It is commonly served with steamed rice and can be accompanied by pickled vegetables.