Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Katsu is a crispy, flavorful Japanese dish made healthier with the air fryer. It features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb crust and is served with a rich tonkatsu sauce. The air fryer ensures a golden, crunchy exterior without the need for deep frying, making this a quicker and lighter version of the classic.

Ingredients

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

• Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• Panko breadcrumbs
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Tonkatsu sauce (for serving)
• Olive oil spray

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, ensuring an even coating.
4. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
5. Lightly spray both sides of the breaded chicken with olive oil spray.
6. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
7. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
8. Serve with tonkatsu sauce drizzled over the chicken.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• For extra crunch, add a layer of crushed cornflakes to the panko breadcrumbs.
• Use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
• Spice things up by adding chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Try a sweet and tangy homemade sauce by mixing ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and a bit of honey.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Chicken Katsu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain the crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will provide more juiciness and flavor.

Do I need to use tonkatsu sauce?
Tonkatsu sauce adds authentic flavor, but you can substitute with a mixture of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.

Can I make this in a regular oven?
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

Can I freeze the chicken katsu?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken before air frying. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before air frying.

Can I use a different breadcrumb?
Panko breadcrumbs give the best crispy texture, but you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs for a different result.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Katsu is a perfect balance of crispy and tender with the convenience of using an air fryer. It’s a quick and healthier take on a classic Japanese favorite, bringing the deliciousness of deep-fried chicken without the guilt. Try it out and enjoy this crispy, juicy dish in no time!

Print