What To Know
- This recipe utilizes a combination of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and eggs, creating a light and crispy crust that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
- Place the fried chicken cutlet on a bed of steamed rice and top with tonkatsu sauce and a fried egg.
- Use a combination of flour and cornstarch in the coating to create a crispy crust.
Chicken katsu, a beloved Japanese dish, is renowned for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, juicy interior. Traditionally prepared using panko breadcrumbs, this recipe offers a delectable twist by showcasing an alternative coating that yields equally exceptional results.
The Perfect Coating:
The key to a successful chicken katsu lies in the coating. This recipe utilizes a combination of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and eggs, creating a light and crispy crust that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
Ingredients:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets
- All-purpose flour
- Cornstarch
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Tonkatsu sauce
- Shredded cabbage
- Japanese mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Tenderize the chicken cutlets by gently pounding them with a meat mallet.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Create the Coating:
- In separate bowls, whisk together the flour and cornstarch, and beat the eggs.
- Dredge the chicken cutlets first in the flour mixture, then the eggs, and finally in the panko breadcrumbs (if using).
3. Fry the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Carefully place the coated chicken cutlets into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Drain the chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. Serve the Chicken Katsu:
- Arrange the fried chicken cutlets on a bed of shredded cabbage.
- Drizzle tonkatsu sauce over the chicken.
- Serve with Japanese mayonnaise (optional) and additional tonkatsu sauce for dipping.
Variations:
- Chicken Katsu Sandwich:
- Place the fried chicken cutlet between two slices of bread, along with shredded cabbage, tonkatsu sauce, and Japanese mayonnaise.
- Chicken Katsu Curry:
- Serve the fried chicken cutlet with a side of Japanese curry sauce.
- Chicken Katsu Donburi:
- Place the fried chicken cutlet on a bed of steamed rice and top with tonkatsu sauce and a fried egg.
Tips for Success:
- Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
- Tenderize the chicken cutlets to ensure they cook evenly and remain tender.
- Use a combination of flour and cornstarch in the coating to create a crispy crust.
- Fry the chicken cutlets in hot oil to achieve a golden brown color and crispy texture.
- Drain the chicken cutlets on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve the chicken katsu hot with tonkatsu sauce and shredded cabbage.
Alternatives to Panko Breadcrumbs:
- All-Purpose Flour:
- Use a combination of all-purpose flour and cornstarch to create a light and crispy coating.
- Cornstarch:
- Cornstarch alone can be used to achieve a crispy crust.
- Crushed Crackers:
- Use crushed crackers, such as Ritz or saltine crackers, for a flavorful coating.
- Potato Chips:
- Crush potato chips and use them as a coating for a unique and crunchy texture.
The Perfect Sides:
- Shredded Cabbage:
- Shredded cabbage is a classic side dish for chicken katsu.
- Japanese Rice:
- Serve chicken katsu with steamed Japanese rice for a complete meal.
- Miso Soup:
- Pair chicken katsu with a bowl of hot miso soup for a comforting and flavorful meal.
A Culinary Journey to Japan:
Chicken katsu is a beloved Japanese dish that has gained popularity worldwide. Its crispy coating and tender interior make it a delectable choice for a satisfying meal. Whether you choose to use panko breadcrumbs or an alternative coating, this recipe offers a delightful culinary experience that transports you to the streets of Japan.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. However, they may take slightly longer to cook.
2. What is tonkatsu sauce made of?
- Tonkatsu sauce is a thick, sweet, and savory sauce made from Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, and other ingredients.
3. Can I make chicken katsu in the oven instead of frying it?
- Yes, you can bake chicken katsu in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. What other dipping sauces can I use with chicken katsu?
- In addition to tonkatsu sauce, you can serve chicken katsu with Japanese mayonnaise, soy sauce, or a mixture of both.
5. Can I make chicken katsu ahead of time?
- Yes, you can cook chicken katsu ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or air fryer before serving.
