Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry

Name: Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken thighs; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; Oil for frying; 1 onion, diced; 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; Cooked rice; Chopped green onions (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the delicious fusion of crispy chicken katsu and rich, savory curry in this beloved Japanese dish. The tender, breaded chicken is served over a bed of fluffy rice, drenched in a velvety curry sauce that combines fragrant spices and wholesome vegetables. Perfect for a comforting meal any night of the week, this recipe brings authentic Japanese flavors right to your kitchen.

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2025-12-13T15:21:05.966Z

This dish is a staple in Japanese cuisine, loved by many for its comforting flavors and textures. Chicken katsu, a breaded and fried chicken cutlet, pairs wonderfully with a savory curry sauce, making it a popular choice for families and food enthusiasts alike.

The Joy of Chicken Katsu

Chicken katsu is a quintessential Japanese dish that showcases the perfect combination of crunchy texture and tender meat. Traditionally made with chicken, it is a popular choice for those looking for a hearty yet simple meal. The exterior is coated in panko breadcrumbs, giving it a light and crispy finish that elevates it to comfort food status. When paired with curry sauce, it transforms into a delightful fusion that tantalizes the taste buds.

Not only is chicken katsu delicious, but it is also incredibly versatile. You can serve it in various ways – over rice, in sandwiches, or even as part of a bento box. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, making it an instant favorite for both children and adults. The dish invites creativity, allowing you to experiment with different sauces and side dishes.

Understanding Japanese Curry

Japanese curry is distinct from other curries in its bold yet mild flavor profile, often featuring a thicker consistency and a slight sweetness. It is typically prepared with a mix of vegetables and spices, simmered until tender, creating a comforting and hearty sauce that complements the crispy chicken katsu beautifully. The addition of honey and Worcestershire sauce in this recipe adds depth and a touch of umami, resulting in a satisfying dish that warms the soul.

This curry sauce is perfect for making in larger batches, as it reheats wonderfully. Many families enjoy Japanese curry as a weekly staple, and it serves as an excellent base for adding different proteins such as pork or vegetables. With its rich flavor and enticing aroma, the curry sauce is sure to become a beloved component of your home cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your chicken katsu curry with fluffy white rice is a classic method, but don’t hesitate to experiment with alternative sides. Steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or even pickled vegetables can add a vibrant touch to your meal. Additionally, serving it alongside a light salad can provide a nice balance of flavors and textures, making your dining experience even more delightful.

For those looking to impress, consider adding garnishes such as chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an aesthetically pleasing finish. A drizzle of spicy mayonnaise or a sprinkle of chili flakes can give the dish a modern twist, appealing to both traditional and contemporary palates. This flexibility makes the chicken katsu curry an excellent option for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Katsu

4 boneless chicken thighs
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Oil for frying

For the Curry Sauce

1 onion, diced
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

For Serving

Cooked rice
Chopped green onions (optional)

Gather all your ingredients and get ready to make this delicious dish!

Instructions

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 oil in a pan and fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.

Make the Curry Sauce

In a separate pan, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes until the vegetables are tender.

Add curry powder and stir for 1 minute.

Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and honey. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until thickened.

Assemble the Dish

Slice the chicken katsu and serve it over a bed of rice.

Pour the hot curry sauce over the chicken and rice.

Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Japanese Chicken Katsu Curry!

Tips for Perfecting Chicken Katsu

To achieve the perfect chicken katsu, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. A good test is to sprinkle a few breadcrumbs in the oil; if they sizzle immediately, it’s ready. Cooking the chicken at the right temperature prevents it from becoming greasy while achieving that sought-after golden crust.

Using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts enhances the flavor and juiciness. Chicken thighs retain moisture better during cooking, resulting in a more succulent katsu that pairs wonderfully with the curry sauce. For an extra crunch, consider double-breading the chicken by dipping it in the egg and panko twice before frying.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken katsu and curry sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the crispiness of the chicken while preserving the flavor of the curry. Consume within three days for optimal freshness.

When reheating, consider using an oven to restore the chicken's crispiness. Heat the chicken katsu on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Reheat the curry sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking. This method ensures your meal tastes just as delightful as it did on the first day.

Making It Vegetarian

For a vegetarian twist on this recipe, swap out the chicken katsu for eggplant or tofu. Both options can be prepared in the same way, providing a similar crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the curry sauce. Just make sure to press and bread the tofu or eggplant slices adequately to achieve that satisfying crunch.

You can also enhance the curry with additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These additions not only boost the nutrition profile but also add different flavors and textures, creating a vibrant and colorful dish that everyone will enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs tend to be juicier.

→ Is this dish spicy?

It's not very spicy, but you can add chili powder for some heat.