What To Know
- Pound the chicken breast flat using a meat mallet or a rolling pin.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour, then dip them in the egg, and finally coat them in the panko breadcrumbs.
- Tonkatsu sauce is a thick, sweet, and slightly tangy sauce made from a base of tomatoes, fruits, and vegetables.
Craving the irresistible flavors of Wagamama’s signature Chicken Katsu? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of creating this mouthwatering dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1/2 cup plain flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup tonkatsu sauce (available at Asian grocery stores)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
For Serving:
- Steamed rice
- Shredded cabbage
- Tonkatsu sauce (additional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the chicken breast flat using a meat mallet or a rolling pin.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Create the Crumb Coating
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour, then dip them in the egg, and finally coat them in the panko breadcrumbs.
3. Fry the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the coated chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain the chicken on paper towels.
4. Make the Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine tonkatsu sauce, water, honey, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
- Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Place steamed rice on a plate.
- Arrange the fried chicken pieces on top of the rice.
- Drizzle the tonkatsu sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with shredded cabbage and serve with additional tonkatsu sauce on the side.
Tips for Success
- Use a good quality tonkatsu sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken, or it will not cook evenly.
- Serve the chicken katsu immediately for the ultimate crispy experience.
Variations
- Spicy Chicken Katsu: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or sriracha to the panko breadcrumbs.
- Panko Crusted Chicken: Use only panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating.
- Baked Chicken Katsu: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chicken katsu with a side of miso soup or edamame beans.
- Add a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Top the chicken with a drizzle of Kewpie Japanese mayonnaise for extra richness.
“Katsu” It Up!
With this comprehensive guide, you can now create the delectable Chicken Katsu Wagamama at home and impress your family and friends with your culinary prowess. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary adventure that will satisfy your cravings for authentic Japanese flavors.
What You Need to Learn
1. What is tonkatsu sauce?
Tonkatsu sauce is a thick, sweet, and slightly tangy sauce made from a base of tomatoes, fruits, and vegetables.
2. Can I use other types of breadcrumbs for the coating?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko breadcrumbs will give you a lighter and crispier texture.
3. How do I make my chicken katsu extra crispy?
Double-coating the chicken in breadcrumbs will help create a thicker, crispier crust.
4. Can I freeze chicken katsu?
Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken katsu for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving.
5. What are some other toppings I can add to my chicken katsu?
Popular toppings include shredded cabbage, pickled ginger, and sesame seeds.
