This Chicken Katsu Curry is a much-loved masterpiece that blends Japanese comfort food heritage with the sophisticated, mildly spiced profile of the British curry house. It is the perfect balance of golden, crunchy protein and a velvety, warming sauce.
The Secret to a Professional-Grade Katsu Experience
Chicken Katsu Curry has become a modern staple across the UK, from high-end London bistros to popular takeaway spots. What sets a professional version apart is the meticulous contrast between the “Katsu” (the cutlet) and the “Curry” (the sauce). The chicken must be coated in authentic Panko breadcrumbs—which are larger and airier than standard crumbs—to ensure a shatteringly crisp exterior that stands up to the rich, pour-over sauce.
The sauce itself is a triumph of balance. Unlike the bold heat of a Madras or Vindaloo, a Chicken Katsu Curry sauce focuses on a gentle, fruity sweetness derived from caramelized aromatics like carrots and onions, rounded off with a touch of honey. It provides a smooth, sophisticated warmth that makes it a universal favorite for all palates.
Preparation & Mise en Place
To achieve the signature quality of a British eatery, follow these expert preparation tips:
- The Double-Coat Method: For maximum crunch, ensure your chicken is flattened to an even thickness. This ensures the meat cooks at the same rate as the breadcrumbs brown.
- The Sieve Secret: For a truly professional, silky sauce, many chefs blitz the cooked vegetables and then pass the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve. This removes any fibrous bits from the ginger or carrots.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain a steady frying temperature of 170°C (340°F). If the oil is too cool, the panko will absorb grease; if too hot, the crust will burn before the chicken is cooked through.
- Resting the Protein: Allow the chicken to rest for 2 minutes on a wire rack after frying. This prevents steam from softening the bottom of the crust.
Authentic Chicken Katsu Curry Recipe
Serves: 4
Total Time: 50 minutes
Flavour Profile: Crispy, mildly spiced, savoury, and comforting
Ingredients
- For the chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts, flattened slightly
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup plain flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups breadcrumbs or panko
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the curry sauce:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- For serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Fresh parsley or spring onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Coat each piece in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and cover with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Fry the chicken:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Start the curry sauce:
- Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and grated carrot. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Build the sauce:
- Stir in curry powder and flour, cooking briefly. Gradually add chicken stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Simmer and season:
- Add soy sauce and honey or sugar. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until thick and smooth.
- Assemble and serve:
- Slice the chicken and serve over rice. Spoon curry sauce generously over the top and garnish if desired.
If you enjoy hearty meals, try our Beef Steak with Peppercorn Sauce for a rich and satisfying dinner
🍽 Serving
Chicken Katsu Curry is traditionally served with fluffy white rice and sometimes a side of pickled vegetables or a light salad. It is best enjoyed fresh while the chicken remains crisp. For a lighter version, the chicken can be oven-baked instead of fried. This dish is perfect for family meals or when you want a comforting dinner with a touch of indulgence.
Nutrition*
- Per serving:
- Calories: 590 kcal
- Protein: 36 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Potassium: 620 mg
- Fiber: 4 g
- Calcium: 110 mg
- Iron: 3.2 mg
*Nutrition data is calculated by an automated system and may vary, so it is provided as an estimate.
Chicken Katsu Curry remains a favourite because it delivers comfort through familiar textures and flavours. The crispy chicken, paired with smooth curry sauce and rice, creates a dish that is both satisfying and approachable. Easy to prepare and loved by all ages, it is a dependable recipe that fits perfectly into modern home cooking.