Chicken Katsu Curry

Name: Chicken Katsu Curry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 cups panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil, for frying; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons curry powder; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt, to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A delicious fusion of crispy chicken cutlets and savory curry sauce, Chicken Katsu Curry is a comforting dish that brings the best of Japanese cuisine to your table.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2025-12-20T22:00:54.922Z

Chicken Katsu Curry is a beloved dish in Japan, known for its crispy texture and rich, flavorful sauce. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy panko breading, and aromatic curry creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy chicken with a savory, flavorful curry sauce
Comfort food that's perfect for family dinners
Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for guests

      

A Delicious Fusion of Flavors

Chicken Katsu Curry beautifully combines two beloved elements of Japanese cuisine: the crispy chicken cutlet known as katsu and a rich, comforting curry sauce. This dish offers an explosion of flavors, with the crunchiness of the chicken perfectly complementing the savory depth of the curry. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast that makes it a favorite among both children and adults alike.

The curry sauce is not only flavorful but also customizable. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, adding more curry powder for heat or incorporating vegetables for added texture. This flexibility allows you to create a dish that can cater to various palates, making it a great choice for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're preparing a cozy family meal or hosting friends for a special occasion, Chicken Katsu Curry fits the bill. Its inviting aroma and vibrant presentation make it a showstopper on any dinner table. You can easily impress your guests with this dish, showcasing your culinary skills while keeping the preparation simple and stress-free.

Additionally, Chicken Katsu Curry can be made ahead of time, with the sauce and chicken katsu stored separately until you're ready to serve. This makes it a practical option for busy weeknights or meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the comfort of homemade food without the last-minute rush.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your Chicken Katsu Curry experience, consider serving it with a side of steamed rice, which perfectly absorbs the rich curry sauce. You might also add pickled vegetables or a simple salad for a refreshing contrast. These sides not only elevate the meal but also add nutritional balance, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

For a beverage pairing, a light Japanese lager or a refreshing iced green tea can complement the flavors of the dish beautifully. These drinks provide a nice contrast to the savory notes of the curry while keeping the overall meal light and refreshing.

Ingredients

For Chicken Katsu

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

For Curry Sauce

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons curry powder
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
Salt, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.

Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and let drain on paper towels.

Make the Curry Sauce

In the same skillet, add vegetable oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add carrots and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in curry powder and cook for another minute.

Combine Sauce Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt to taste.

Serve

Slice the chicken katsu and serve over rice, topped with the warm curry sauce.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Chicken Katsu Curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the crispy texture of the chicken, it’s best to store the katsu and curry sauce separately. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the curry sauce on the stove and briefly pan-fry the chicken katsu to restore its crunchiness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the curry sauce for up to three months. Just remember to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw the sauce overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and enjoy the taste of this delicious dish even after several weeks!

Nutritional Information

Chicken Katsu Curry is a hearty meal that provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The chicken thighs offer a rich source of protein, while the panko breadcrumbs add a satisfying crunch. The curry sauce, packed with vegetables like onions and carrots, contributes essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

For those looking to make a healthier version, consider baking the chicken instead of frying. This reduces the amount of oil used and can lower the overall calorie count, making it a great option for those mindful of their dietary choices without compromising on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be less tender and juicy.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.

→ Can I prepare the curry sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The curry sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Katsu Curry?

It's commonly served with steamed rice and can be accompanied by pickled vegetables.