Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Katsu delivers the crispy, golden perfection of traditional Japanese katsu without deep frying. This healthier version uses less oil but still achieves a crunchy panko coating and juicy chicken center. Perfect for weeknight dinners, bento boxes, or pairing with curry, it’s a satisfying dish that comes together quickly and cleanly using your air fryer.

ingredients

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

boneless, skinless chicken breastssaltblack pepperall-purpose flourlarge eggsPanko breadcrumbsneutral cooking spraysesame seeds (optional for garnish)tonkatsu sauce (for serving)

directions

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.

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

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

Lightly spray both sides of the breaded chicken with cooking spray.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.

Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping.

Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing.

Serve with tonkatsu sauce and optional sesame seed garnish.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2-4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 10-12 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs for a juicier, more traditional katsu.

Add a dash of garlic powder or paprika to the flour for added flavor.

Serve with steamed rice and shredded cabbage for a full meal.

Swap tonkatsu sauce with sriracha mayo or sweet chili sauce for a twist.

Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.

FAQs

What is Chicken Katsu?

Chicken Katsu is a Japanese dish of breaded and fried chicken cutlet, typically served with tonkatsu sauce.

Can I use pork instead of chicken?

Yes, pork loin or cutlets can be used to make tonkatsu using the same method.

Why is my katsu not crispy?

Ensure your air fryer is preheated and don’t overcrowd the basket; this ensures even crisping.

Do I need to flip the chicken during cooking?

Yes, flipping halfway ensures both sides get evenly browned and crispy.

What dipping sauce pairs best?

Tonkatsu sauce is traditional, but spicy mayo or even barbecue sauce can work well.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before air frying.

Can I freeze cooked Chicken Katsu?

Yes, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

What can I serve with Chicken Katsu?

Steamed rice, cabbage salad, miso soup, or curry are all great options.

Is Air Fryer Chicken Katsu healthier?

Yes, it uses significantly less oil than deep-fried versions while still being crispy.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as you avoid dairy-based sauces.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Katsu offers the beloved crunch and savory bite of classic Japanese comfort food with a healthier twist. Quick to prepare and easier to clean up than deep frying, it’s a perfect go-to meal for busy nights or an impressive dish to serve guests. Give it a try and enjoy the crisp satisfaction with every bite.

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