Authentic Japanese Torikatsu (Chicken Katsu) Recipe

Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for deep frying
1 cup Japanese mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Steps and instructions

Lightly season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Next, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken to ensure they adhere properly.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the chicken.
Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
While the chicken is frying, prepare the sauce. Mix together the mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic powder.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Slice the chicken into strips and serve with the prepared sauce. Enjoy your Torikatsu!

Tools for making

Cutting board - Used for preparing and slicing the chicken.
Knife - Essential for cutting and trimming the chicken breasts.
Bowls - Required for holding flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs for coating the chicken.
Deep frying pan - Used for frying the breaded chicken.
Tongs - Necessary for flipping and removing the chicken from the hot oil.
Paper towels - Used to drain excess oil from the fried chicken.
Plate - Used for serving the cooked Torikatsu.

Recipe variations

Use pork cutlets instead of chicken breasts for Tonkatsu.
Replace the panko breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes or crushed potato chips for a different texture.
Try coating the meat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
For a healthier option, use whole wheat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Experiment with different seasonings such as paprika, dried herbs, or chili powder to customize the flavor of the crust.
For a meat-free alternative, substitute the chicken breasts with firm tofu slices or portobello mushrooms.
Add a dash of curry powder or garam masala to the flour for a unique twist on the traditional Torikatsu.
Instead of deep frying, try baking the breaded chicken in the oven for a lighter version.
Serve Torikatsu with a side of Japanese curry, steamed rice, and pickled vegetables for a complete meal.
Incorporate grated ginger or garlic into the sauce for an additional kick of flavor.

Recipe overview

Torikatsu is a popular Japanese dish comprised of breaded and deep-fried chicken breasts, typically served with a tangy and slightly sweet sauce. This recipe will guide you step-by-step in creating this savory dish from the comfort of your own home. Be prepared to handle raw chicken and work with hot oil for frying. The process involves coating the chicken in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs before frying to golden perfection. While the chicken cooks, you'll mix up a flavorful sauce using common ingredients. The result is a crispy, juicy chicken dish with an incredibly flavorful sauce that's perfect for a family dinner or social gathering. Enjoy the taste of Japan with this easy-to-follow Torikatsu recipe!

Common questions

How can I make sure the chicken is cooked through?
To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, fry it for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until it turns golden brown. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use pork or beef as an alternative to chicken for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness of the meat.
Can I bake the breaded chicken instead of deep frying?
While deep frying is the traditional method, you can also bake the breaded chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until it is cooked through and golden brown.
What can I serve with Torikatsu?
Torikatsu is commonly served with steamed rice, shredded cabbage, and a side of miso soup. It can also be enjoyed with a side of Japanese pickles or a fresh salad.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for a few days, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting board - A sturdy surface for preparing and slicing the chicken.
Chef's knife - A sharp knife for cutting the chicken into desired shapes.
Bowls - Bowls for holding the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs during the breading process.
Deep frying pan - A pan with high sides for deep frying the breaded chicken.
Tongs - Tongs for flipping and removing the chicken from the hot oil.
Paper towels - Paper towels for draining excess oil from the fried chicken.
Plate - A plate for serving the Torikatsu strips.
Sauce bowls - Small bowls for serving the mayonnaise-based sauce.

Origin stories

Torikatsu, also known as Chicken Katsu, is a Japanese dish inspired by Western cuisine, particularly from the culinary styles of Europe. It is a part of the larger 'Yōshoku' cuisine, which signifies a fusion between Western and Japanese cooking. Originated during the Meiji Era (1868-1912), when Japan increased its interaction with the West, Japanese chefs began to incorporate Western elements into their traditional recipes. Thus emerged Torikatsu, a delightful marriage of Japanese flavors and Western-style deep frying techniques. The 'katsu' in Torikatsu is actually short for 'katsuretsu', which means 'cutlet'. So, whenever you enjoy a Torikatsu, you're not just savoring a delicious dish but also partaking in a culinary homage to the harmonious blend of East and West.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.