Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce is a beloved Japanese comfort dish known for its crispy, golden panko crust and juicy, tender chicken inside. This dish takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something incredibly satisfying. The chicken is coated in light, airy breadcrumbs, fried until perfectly crisp, and served with a rich, tangy Tonkatsu sauce that ties all the flavors together.

Whether enjoyed with steamed rice, cabbage salad, or tucked into sandwiches, Chicken Katsu is a versatile classic that’s easy enough for weeknights yet delicious enough for entertaining. It’s a beautiful blend of crunch, flavor, and simplicity.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers an authentic Japanese restaurant taste right at home without complicated steps. The chicken turns out incredibly crispy yet never greasy, thanks to the panko coating. The Tonkatsu sauce adds a unique depth—sweet, savory, tangy, and slightly smoky. It’s comfort food that feels light, satisfying, and beautifully balanced. It’s also a recipe that works every time and can be paired with so many sides. The flavor is familiar yet special, making it a go-to dish when craving something both hearty and fresh.

Why This Dish Is a Must-Try

This dish is a must-try because it’s the perfect introduction to Japanese home-style cooking. Chicken Katsu offers an irresistible crunch, takes minimal prep, and cooks quickly. The ingredients are easy to find, and the technique is simple even for beginners.

It’s kid-friendly, adult-approved, and works for meal prep. The homemade Tonkatsu sauce elevates the entire experience, giving you that signature Japanese flavor you’d expect from a high-quality restaurant. If you enjoy crispy chicken dishes, this one is guaranteed to become a favorite.

Preparation and Cooking Details

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 480 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese

Ingredients

For the Chicken Katsu

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons water
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

For the Tonkatsu Sauce

3 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
½ teaspoon mustard (optional)

Optional Sides

Shredded cabbage
Steamed white rice
Lemon wedges

Cooking Directions Overview

Season the chicken, bread it using flour, egg, and panko, fry until golden, and serve with homemade Tonkatsu sauce and your preferred sides.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
2. Pound lightly to even thickness for consistent cooking.
3. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

1. Place flour in one shallow bowl.
2. Beat eggs with water in a second bowl.
3. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Dip into the egg mixture.
3. Coat generously in panko, pressing lightly to help the crumbs stick.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken Katsu

1. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 340–350°F (170–175°C).
2. Fry chicken cutlets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
3. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Let rest for 2 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Make the Tonkatsu Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, and mustard.
2. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Slice Chicken Katsu into strips.
2. Serve hot with Tonkatsu sauce drizzled over or on the side.

How to Serve Chicken Katsu

Serve Chicken Katsu sliced into strips with a generous drizzle of Tonkatsu sauce. Pair with steamed rice, miso soup, or a traditional shredded cabbage salad. A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors beautifully. It also tastes wonderful in sandwiches or served over rice bowls for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness.
Keep chicken cutlets thin for fast, even cooking.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
Let fried chicken rest on a rack to stay crisp.
For extra crunch, double-coat with egg and panko.
Use a thermometer if unsure about oil temperature.

Variations

Baked Chicken Katsu

Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter option.

Air-Fried Chicken Katsu

Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes, lightly misting with oil.

Spicy Chicken Katsu

Add chili flakes to panko or mix sriracha into the Tonkatsu sauce.

Katsu Curry

Serve over Japanese curry and rice for a comforting meal.

Katsu Sandwich

Place chicken in soft bread with cabbage and sauce for a Japanese-style sandwich.

Gluten-Free Katsu

Use rice flour and gluten-free panko.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

Store cooked Chicken Katsu in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Freezing

Freeze breaded but uncooked chicken for up to 2 months.
Freeze on a tray first, then transfer to bags.
Fry directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
Avoid freezing cooked Katsu as the coating may soften.

Special Equipment Needed

Cutting board
Meat mallet
Shallow bowls
Deep skillet or pot
Cooking thermometer (optional)
Wire rack for draining

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs (boneless) work well and stay very juicy.

Why is my Katsu not crispy?

Oil may be too cold or you may have overcrowded the pan.

Can I make Tonkatsu sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Is Katsu the same as fried chicken?

It’s similar but uses panko for a lighter, crispier texture.

Can I pan fry instead of deep frying?

Yes, shallow frying works perfectly.

Conclusion

Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce is a beautifully simple yet incredibly flavorful Japanese dish that brings restaurant-quality crispiness to your home kitchen. With its golden panko crust, juicy chicken interior, and tangy homemade sauce, it delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a reliable favorite. Whether served with rice, cabbage, or tucked in a sandwich, Chicken Katsu always delivers delicious results.