Chicken Katsu Curry

Posted by by Sara 4 months Ago 84 Views

Chicken Katsu Curry is a beloved Japanese dish that combines crispy, golden-brown breaded chicken cutlets with a rich, savory, and slightly sweet Japanese curry sauce. This comforting meal is served over a bed of fluffy white rice, making it a perfect balance of crunch, spice, and heartiness.

What sets Japanese curry apart from other curries is its mild heat, thick consistency, and umami-rich flavors, thanks to a mix of curry powder, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness from honey or apples. Paired with crispy Chicken Katsu, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves a satisfying meal!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Chicken Katsu (Crispy Fried Chicken):

  • Boneless chicken breasts (or thighs), pounded to 1 cm thickness – 600g
  • Salt and black pepper – To taste
  • All-purpose flour – 80g
  • Eggs, beaten – 2
  • Panko breadcrumbs – 150g
  • Vegetable oil – For frying

For the Japanese Curry Sauce:

  • Butter – 2 tablespoons
  • Yellow onion, finely chopped – 1 large
  • Carrots, diced – 2 medium (200g)
  • Potatoes, diced – 2 medium (300g)
  • Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
  • Ginger, minced – 1 teaspoon
  • Curry powder (Japanese style, such as S&B) – 1 tablespoon
  • Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
  • Tomato paste – 1 tablespoon
  • Soy sauce – 1 tablespoon
  • Honey (or grated apple for sweetness) – 1 tablespoon
  • Chicken broth (or water) – 750ml
  • Curry roux (or a cornstarch slurry for thickening) – 2 blocks or 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For Serving:

  • Steamed white rice – 4 cups
  • Chopped green onions or parsley – For garnish
  • Fukujinzuke (Japanese pickles, optional) – For authentic taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Katsu

  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Set up a breading station with three bowls:
    • Bowl 1: Flour.
    • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
    • Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with panko, pressing the breadcrumbs in to adhere well.

2. Fry the Chicken Katsu

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pan to 175°C (350°F).
  2. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and slice into strips before serving.

3. Make the Japanese Curry Sauce

  1. In a medium pot, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft and caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. Add garlic, ginger, carrots, and potatoes, and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in curry powder, garam masala, and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and add soy sauce and honey (or grated apple). Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
  5. Add curry roux (or cornstarch slurry) and stir until the sauce thickens.

4. Assemble and Serve

  1. Place a portion of steamed rice on a plate.
  2. Arrange sliced Chicken Katsu on top.
  3. Pour Japanese curry sauce over the chicken and rice.
  4. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with fukujinzuke pickles (optional).

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 620 kcal
  • Protein: 38g
  • Carbohydrates: 75g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg

(Values are estimates and may vary based on portion size and ingredients.)

Tips & Tricks for the Best Chicken Katsu Curry

✔ Use Panko Breadcrumbs – They give the chicken its signature extra-crispy texture.

✔ Double Fry for Maximum Crunch – Fry the chicken once, let it rest, then fry it for another 1-2 minutes to get extra crispy.

✔ Caramelize the Onions – Let them cook slowly for a sweeter, richer curry flavor.

✔ Grated Apple for Authentic Sweetness – Many Japanese curry recipes use grated apple for natural sweetness.

✔ Make it Spicier – Add a bit of cayenne pepper or extra curry powder for more heat.

✔ Make It Ahead – The curry sauce tastes even better the next day, so it’s great for meal prep!

Serving Suggestions

🍚 With Extra Rice – Japanese curry pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine or short-grain rice.
🥢 With a Side Salad – A simple cabbage slaw with sesame dressing balances the richness.
🍜 With Udon or Ramen – Instead of rice, serve the curry over noodles for a delicious twist.
🍶 With Japanese Green Tea or Miso Soup – A light pairing to complete the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Crispy & Juicy Chicken – The panko coating makes every bite satisfying.
✅ Rich, Flavorful Curry Sauce – Thick, aromatic, and packed with umami.
✅ Comforting & Hearty – A full meal that fills you up and warms your soul.
✅ Easy to Customize – Adjust the spice, sweetness, or thickness to your taste.