Fried Chicken Katsu with Panko – Golden & Crunchy Goodness

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Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, Fried Chicken Katsu with Panko is a dish that never fails to impress. With its Japanese-inspired simplicity and bold crunch, it’s perfect for a comforting dinner or even a casual lunch that feels a little extra special. The golden crust paired with a drizzle of tonkatsu sauce or a side of rice and salad turns any mealtime into something memorable.

What makes this chicken katsu shine is the use of panko breadcrumbs. They create a light and airy crunch that traditional breadcrumbs just can’t match. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, leaving you wanting another piece before you’ve even finished the first.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Chicken Katsu with Panko

You’ll fall in love with this dish because it’s so easy to make while delivering restaurant-quality results. The combination of tender chicken cutlets and the irresistibly crisp coating is simply satisfying. Plus, you can serve it with so many sides, making it versatile for different tastes and occasions.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful after frying, but breasts will give you that classic katsu look and lighter taste. Either choice works beautifully with the crunchy panko crust.

Ingredients for the Fried Chicken Katsu with Panko

Chicken breasts or thighs are the heart of this dish, providing tender meat that holds up perfectly to frying. Salt and pepper season the chicken simply but effectively. All-purpose flour helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick, forming the base of the crispy crust. Eggs create the glue for the panko coating, ensuring an even and robust layer. And finally, panko breadcrumbs are the star ingredient, giving the chicken that signature crunch and golden color.

How To Make the Fried Chicken Katsu with Panko

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the chicken pieces to an even thickness, about ½ inch, to ensure they cook evenly. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station

In three separate shallow bowls, place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third. Coat each piece of chicken first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally press into the panko, making sure it’s fully covered.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour about ½ inch of neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat until shimmering. You can test if it’s ready by dropping in a breadcrumb—it should sizzle immediately.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the breaded chicken in the hot oil and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the coating is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the chicken katsu into strips and serve hot with your choice of sides and sauce.

Serving and Storing Fried Chicken Katsu with Panko

This recipe serves about 4 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or small gathering. Serve it immediately after frying to enjoy the maximum crunch and juiciness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to bring back that crispy texture—microwaving can make the crust soggy.

What to Serve With Fried Chicken Katsu with Panko?

Steamed White Rice

Fluffy rice is the perfect blank canvas for soaking up savory katsu sauce and balancing the richness of the fried chicken.

Cabbage Slaw

A refreshing, finely shredded cabbage salad with a light dressing adds crunch and acidity to cut through the fried goodness.

Miso Soup

A warm bowl of miso soup rounds out the meal with umami and comfort.

Pickled Vegetables

Tangy pickles add brightness and a little bite, complementing the crispy chicken.

Tonkatsu Sauce

Drizzle or dip your chicken into this sweet-savory Japanese sauce for a classic pairing.

Edamame

Lightly salted edamame provides a healthy, vibrant green side that pairs beautifully.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

For something heartier, roasted sweet potatoes bring a touch of sweetness that contrasts the savory crunch.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Fried Chicken Katsu with Panko, you’ll enjoy these other comforting chicken recipes too:

• Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs for a tangy and tender weeknight dish.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Linguine for a creamy, indulgent pasta dinner.
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli if you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.
• Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken when you want another irresistible crispy option.
• Sweet Baby Ray’s Crockpot Chicken for a set-it-and-forget-it slow-cooked favorite.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with chicken breasts or try thighs? Did you drizzle with sauce or keep it simple?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Conclusion

Golden, crunchy, and full of flavor, Fried Chicken Katsu with Panko is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. With its satisfying texture and versatility, it’s the perfect addition to your dinner rotation. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share your kitchen triumphs!

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