Japanese Chicken Cutlet Recipe

Looking for a delicious and crispy dish to add to your recipe repertoire? Look no further than this Japanese Chicken Cutlet recipe, also known as Chicken Katsu. This Japanese twist on the traditional Western-style chicken cutlet is loved for its crunchy texture and flavorful taste.

With simple ingredients like chicken, salt, pepper, flour, beaten egg, panko breadcrumbs, and oil for frying, you can easily recreate this popular Japanese fried chicken cutlet at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy Japanese chicken cutlet recipe is sure to impress.

Key Takeaways:

• Japanese Chicken Cutlet, also known as Chicken Katsu, is a delicious and crispy dish.
• It is made by coating chicken cutlets in panko breadcrumbs and deep-frying them.
• The dish is loved for its crunchy texture and flavorful taste.
• Chicken Katsu is a popular comfort food in Japan.
• You can easily make this Japanese Chicken Cutlet at home using simple ingredients.

What is Chicken Katsu?

Chicken Katsu is a popular Japanese dish that consists of chicken cutlets breaded in a mixture of flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. The chicken cutlets are then deep-fried until they turn golden and crispy. This dish bears resemblance to a chicken schnitzel but has its own unique Japanese twist. The highlight of Chicken Katsu is its delightful combination of a crunchy exterior and a tender and juicy interior. It’s often served with shredded cabbage and tonkatsu sauce, which adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish. Loved by people of all ages, Chicken Katsu has become a beloved comfort food in Japan.

Ingredients for Chicken Katsu

To make a delicious Chicken Katsu, you will need the following ingredients:

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

Optional:

• Shredded cabbage, for serving
• Tonkatsu sauce, for serving

How to Make Chicken Katsu

Follow this simple step-by-step guide to make delicious Chicken Katsu at home:

1. Start by preparing the chicken. Pound boneless chicken breasts or thighs to an even thickness, around ½ inch thick. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, to taste. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
3. Next, set up a breading station. Place all-purpose flour in a shallow dish, beaten eggs in another shallow dish, and panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
4. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring that it is evenly coated on all sides. Gently pat the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them adhere.
6. Heat oil in a large skillet or deep-fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side.
7. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
8. Repeat the breading and frying process for the remaining chicken pieces.

And there you have it, a homemade Chicken Katsu that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside!

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, you can make a simple tonkatsu sauce to serve with your Chicken Katsu. Just mix together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and a touch of honey or sugar.

Tips for Making Perfect Chicken Katsu

To ensure that your Chicken Katsu turns out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Chicken

The key to a flavorful and tender Chicken Katsu is using the right cut of chicken. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, as they are the most suitable cuts for this dish.

2. Pound the Chicken Evenly

Pounding the chicken evenly helps tenderize it and ensures that it cooks evenly. Place the chicken between two layers of plastic wrap and gently pound it with a meat mallet or a rolling pin until it is about 1/2-inch thick.

3. Season Generously

Seasoning the chicken properly is crucial to enhancing its flavor. Before coating the chicken in the breading, season it generously with salt and pepper. You can also add some garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.

4. Use Fresh Ingredients

To achieve the best results, use fresh ingredients for your Chicken Katsu recipe. This includes fresh panko breadcrumbs, high-quality cooking oil, and fresh eggs for the egg wash.

5. Double-Coat for Extra Crunch

If you want your Chicken Katsu to have an extra crispy coating, double-coat the chicken. Dip the pounded chicken first in flour, then in the beaten egg, and finally in the panko breadcrumbs.

6. Maintain the Correct Oil Temperature

When frying Chicken Katsu, it’s essential to maintain the correct oil temperature. Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C) before adding the breaded chicken. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a golden, crispy exterior.

7. Drain on a Wire Rack

After frying the Chicken Katsu, it’s important to drain it on a wire rack rather than on paper towels. This prevents the bottom of the chicken from becoming soggy, allowing it to retain its crispy texture.

Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to create Homemade Chicken Katsu that is crispy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Katsu

Chicken Katsu is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some popular serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

1. Traditional Style:

Serve your Chicken Katsu with a side of steamed rice, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of tonkatsu sauce. The combination of crispy chicken, fluffy rice, and crunchy cabbage creates a balanced and satisfying meal.

2. Katsu Curry:

Elevate your Chicken Katsu by serving it over a bed of Japanese curry. This fusion of crispy chicken cutlet and flavorful curry sauce offers a unique and delicious taste experience.

3. Katsu Sandwich:

Create a tasty sandwich by placing your Chicken Katsu between two slices of bread or a fluffy bun. Add some shredded cabbage, sliced tomatoes, and a dollop of mayo for a satisfying meal on the go.

4. Katsu Donburi:

Enjoy your Chicken Katsu on top of a bed of steamed rice, drizzled with sweet and savory donburi sauce. This hearty rice bowl is a popular option for lunch or dinner.

To further enhance the flavors, you can also add a sprinkle of furikake (Japanese seasoning), a squeeze of lemon juice, or a side of pickled vegetables.

These serving suggestions offer a glimpse into the versatility of Chicken Katsu, allowing you to explore different flavors and textures while savoring the deliciousness of this Japanese fried chicken cutlet.

Freezing and Reheating Chicken Katsu

If you have leftover Chicken Katsu or want to prepare a batch in advance, you can freeze it and enjoy it later. Freezing Chicken Katsu is a great way to save time and have a delicious meal ready whenever you want. Here are some tips to help you freeze and reheat Chicken Katsu:

Freezing Chicken Katsu

1. Allow the cooked Chicken Katsu to cool completely before freezing.
2. Place the cooled Chicken Katsu in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
4. Store the Chicken Katsu in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Frozen Chicken Katsu

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Chicken Katsu, follow these simple steps to reheat it:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the frozen Chicken Katsu on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Note: If you prefer a quicker method, you can also reheat the frozen Chicken Katsu in an air fryer or toaster oven according to their respective instructions.

Once reheated, serve the Chicken Katsu immediately with your favorite side dishes or condiments. The crispy texture and savory flavors will be just as delicious as when it was freshly made!

The Cult of Katsu – Roy Choi’s Chicken Katsu Recipe

Roy Choi, a renowned chef, believes that Chicken Katsu holds a special place in the culinary world. He considers it a dish that seems simple but has a transformative effect when executed perfectly. His Chicken Katsu recipe involves lightly pounding boneless chicken thighs, dredging them in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs, and frying them until golden and crispy. The result is a flavorful and satisfying chicken cutlet that is loved by many.

If you want to experience the magic of Roy Choi’s Chicken Katsu, try out this recipe at home. Follow the steps below to create a mouthwatering Japanese Chicken Cutlet:

1. Place boneless chicken thighs between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness.
2. In three separate bowls, place flour, beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dredge each chicken thigh in flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it in panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or a deep-fryer to 350°F (175°C).
5. Carefully place the breaded chicken thighs into the hot oil and fry them until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
6. Remove the chicken cutlets from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Serve the Chicken Katsu hot with steamed rice, shredded cabbage, and tonkatsu sauce.

This recipe captures the essence of Chicken Katsu, delivering a delectable dish that will satisfy your cravings. Roy Choi’s Chicken Katsu is a testament to the simplicity and brilliance of this Japanese classic.

Try Roy Choi’s Chicken Katsu recipe today and experience the cult-like devotion to this irresistible dish. You won’t be disappointed!

Conclusion

Japanese Chicken Cutlet, also known as Chicken Katsu, is a delicious and crispy dish that can easily be made at home. By following a simple recipe and using authentic Japanese ingredients like panko breadcrumbs and tonkatsu sauce, you can recreate the flavors of this popular Japanese fried chicken cutlet. Whether you serve it with shredded cabbage, in a curry, or as a sandwich, Chicken Katsu is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So why not try this homemade Japanese Chicken Cutlet recipe today and savor the crunchy goodness of this mouthwatering dish?

With its golden-brown crust and tender, juicy chicken, Chicken Katsu is a comfort food that brings a taste of Japan to your table. Making it from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the dish to your liking. The step-by-step guide and helpful tips provided in this article ensure that even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-worthy results. Whether you are a fan of Japanese cuisine or simply looking for a new twist on a classic chicken cutlet, Homemade Chicken Katsu is the perfect choice.

So, put on your apron and get ready to experience the irresistible flavors of Japanese Chicken Cutlet. From the first bite to the last, you’ll be transported to the bustling streets of Japan, where this beloved dish is a staple in every household. Enjoy the satisfying crunch, the succulent chicken, and the tantalizing aroma of Homemade Chicken Katsu. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, this crowd-pleasing recipe is sure to impress. Embrace the art of Japanese cooking and indulge in the mouthwatering delight of Chicken Katsu today!