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Chicken Katsu Curry – Crispy, Comforting & Flavor-Packed

Chicken Katsu Curry combines two Japanese comfort food favorites — crispy breaded chicken cutlets and rich, fragrant curry sauce served over fluffy rice. This version keeps it simple yet authentic, balancing the sweetness of apple and honey with the savory depth of curry roux. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy dinner that feels like a treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 3 portions
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍗 Meats:
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
🍏 Fruits & Vegetables:
  • ¼ cup red apple grated or finely chopped
  • 1 large carrot sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 yellow onion thinly wedged
  • 1 large russet potato peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
🥚 Fresh Produce:
  • 1 egg beaten
🥫 Canned Goods:
  • 2 cups chicken broth
🥢 Condiments:
  • 2 oz Japanese curry roux
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
🍚 Pasta & Grains:
  • 2 cups cooked medium-grain rice U.S.-grown
🌿 Spices & Seasonings:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
🫒 Oils & Vinegars:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil plus more for frying
🥖 Breads & Pastries:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
💧 Liquids:
  • ½ cup water

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Medium pot for curry sauce
  • Small pot for cooking rice
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

Step 1 – Make the Curry Sauce
  1. Heat olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion, carrot, and potato; sauté for 5 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and grated apple; cook 1–2 minutes.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  6. Stir in curry roux, honey, soy sauce, and water.
  7. Simmer on low until sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
Step 2 – Prepare the Chicken Katsu
  1. Flatten chicken breasts to even thickness (about ½ inch) between plastic wrap.
  2. Season with salt and black pepper.
  3. Set up a breading station: flour in one bowl, beaten egg in another, panko in a third.
  4. Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3 – Cook the Katsu
  1. Heat enough oil in a large skillet to shallow fry over medium heat.
  2. Fry chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Drain on paper towels.
Step 4 – Serve
  1. Slice chicken into strips.
  2. Serve rice in bowls, ladle curry sauce over one side, and place chicken slices on top.
  3. Garnish with extra parsley or green onions if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store curry and chicken separately for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Curry sauce freezes well for up to 1 month; chicken is best fresh.
Reheating: Warm curry on the stovetop; re-crisp chicken in the oven or air fryer.
🥄 Variations
Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the curry.
Spicy Kick: Use a hot curry roux or add chili powder.
Oven-Baked Katsu: Bake breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko and flour.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, they stay juicy and flavorful.
What is curry roux?
A Japanese curry block made with spices and thickening agents.
Can I make my own curry sauce without roux?
Yes, use curry powder, flour, and butter to make a paste.
Do I have to fry the chicken?
No, you can bake or air fry it.
What rice works best?
Medium or short-grain rice for the classic Japanese texture.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth.
How do I keep the chicken crispy?
Serve immediately and avoid pouring sauce directly on it.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, perfect for meal prep or guests.
How thick should the curry be?
Smooth but pourable — adjust with broth or water.
Can I make the curry sauce ahead?
Yes, it reheats well the next day.
🏁 Conclusion
This Chicken Katsu Curry is a crispy, flavorful, and comforting Japanese favorite that’s easy to make at home. With golden panko-coated chicken, rich curry sauce, and fluffy rice, every bite is satisfying.