Are you looking for a tasty and easy-to-make Japanese dish? Look no further than chicken katsu, a popular Japanese dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make chicken katsu, as well as some tips to make it even more delicious. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make chicken katsu, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the sauce:
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- First, prepare the sauce by mixing the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and sugar in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts into thin, even pieces. Season them with salt and pepper.
- Set up three shallow dishes for breading: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the chicken in the beaten eggs, making sure it is completely coated.
- Finally, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing down lightly to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Serve the chicken katsu with the sauce on the side, and garnish with some sliced green onions if desired.
Tips
- For an extra-crispy crust, try double-coating the chicken in the breadcrumbs. After the first coating, dip the chicken in the egg again, and then coat it in the breadcrumbs a second time.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the homemade sauce and use store-bought tonkatsu sauce instead. It can be found in most Asian grocery stores.
- To make the chicken katsu even more flavorful, try adding some grated ginger or garlic to the egg mixture.
FAQs
- What is panko breadcrumbs?
- Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that are lighter and airier than traditional breadcrumbs. They are often used in Japanese cuisine for their crispy texture.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken thighs may take longer to cook through.
- Can I bake the chicken katsu instead of frying it?
- Yes, you can bake the chicken katsu instead of frying it for a healthier alternative. To do so, place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 400-degree oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- What other sauces can I serve with chicken katsu?
- In addition to the homemade sauce provided in this recipe, you can also serve chicken katsu with other dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even mayonnaise.
- Can I make chicken katsu ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make chicken katsu ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave when ready to serve. However, keep in mind that the breading may lose some of its crispiness if reheated in the microwave.
- Is chicken katsu a healthy dish?
- While chicken katsu is a tasty dish, it is not the healthiest option due to the deep-frying process. However, you can make it slightly healthier by baking it instead of frying it and using whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of panko breadcrumbs.
- Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use a different type of meat such as pork or fish for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- How can I prevent the breading from falling off the chicken?
- To prevent the breading from falling off the chicken, make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken and refrigerate the breaded chicken for at least 30 minutes before frying it. This will help the breading adhere better to the chicken.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chicken katsu is a delicious and easy-to-make Japanese dish that is perfect for a quick and tasty meal. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular dish in Japan and around the world. By following the simple instructions provided in this article, you’ll be able to make chicken katsu in no time. Don’t forget to try some of the tips and variations provided to make it even more delicious. Enjoy!