Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Golden Fried Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce is a Japanese comfort food favorite featuring juicy chicken cutlets coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. Served with a tangy-sweet Tonkatsu sauce, this dish is simple yet deeply satisfying—perfect with rice, shredded cabbage, or tucked into a sandwich.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)flour (for dredging)eggspanko breadcrumbs (Japanese-style)salt and peppervegetable oil (for frying)

Tonkatsu Sauce:
ketchupWorcestershire saucesoy saucemirin or rice vinegarbrown sugargarlic powder (optional)

directions

Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness, about ½ inch. Season with salt and pepper.

Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.

Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then egg, then coat thoroughly in panko.

In a large skillet, heat ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot.

Fry chicken cutlets 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

To make Tonkatsu sauce, whisk together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and garlic powder until smooth.

Slice chicken into strips and serve with Tonkatsu sauce, rice, and shredded cabbage.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use pork cutlets to make traditional Tonkatsu.
Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce.
Try baking or air frying for a lighter version.
Serve on a sandwich bun with shredded cabbage and sauce for a Katsu sando.
Add curry sauce for a Japanese Katsu curry.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) to keep the coating crispy.
Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs work great and stay very juicy.

What’s the difference between Katsu and Tonkatsu?
Katsu refers to breaded cutlets in general, while Tonkatsu specifically uses pork.

Can I freeze Chicken Katsu?
Yes, freeze after frying and cool completely. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Is Tonkatsu sauce the same as barbecue sauce?
No, it’s sweeter and tangier with a thinner consistency and Japanese flavor profile.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free panko and tamari in the sauce to adapt the recipe.

What should I serve with Chicken Katsu?
Steamed rice, shredded cabbage, miso soup, or pickled vegetables are great options.

Conclusion

Golden Fried Chicken Katsu with Tonkatsu Sauce is a crave-worthy combination of crisp texture and bold flavor. Whether served traditionally or in a modern twist, this easy dish brings authentic Japanese comfort food straight to your table with irresistible results.