Image showing a crispy air fry katsu chicken with katsu sauce drizzle
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Emma Lawson | 
14.07.2025

Air Fry Katsu Chicken Recipe

Discover the delight of Air Fry Katsu Chicken, a crispy and healthier twist on traditional fried Japanese chicken. This air fryer chicken katsu recipe uses panko breadcrumbs to create that irresistible crunch, and paired with homemade katsu sauce, it’s a delightful dish. Ideal for a quick and delicious meal, you can enjoy Japanese katsu in your air fryer with ease.
Prep Time
10m
Cook
20m
Total Time
30m
Yield
serves 4
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Chicken
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Chicken

What You’ll Need for Air Fry Katsu Chicken

Essential Katsu Chicken Ingredients

  • 2 chicken breast fillets
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup flour
  • Salt and pepper
  • Homemade katsu sauce

Japanese Curry Sauce

A savoury Japanese curry sauce complements the crispy chicken, enhancing its flavours. Make it by simmering onions, carrots, potatoes, and curry roux in one pot.

Why Use Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko breadcrumbs are essential in this dish to create an authentic and crispy texture that regular breadcrumbs just can't match. Their airy consistency ensures the coating becomes golden brown and crisp. Using panko will give your air fry katsu chicken that perfect crunch everyone loves.

Steps to Cook Air Fry Katsu Chicken in Air Fryer

Let’s prepare this air fry katsu chicken with simple steps.

  1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
  2. Season flour with salt and pepper, dip each breast in flour, then egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.
  4. Spray basket with oil and place the chicken, cook for 10 minutes per side.
  5. Serve hot with homemade katsu sauce.

Avoid Overcooking

Ensure you check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches at least 75°C to avoid overcooking while ensuring it’s safe to eat.
Process of air frying panko-coated chicken fillets in the fryer basket

Nutrition for Air Fry Katsu Chicken

Calories: 450 | Protein: 35g | Carbs: 30g | Fat: 15g

Serving Suggestions for Air Fry Katsu Chicken

Pair this crispy chicken with a side of steamed rice or within a fresh salad to make a complete and satisfying meal. airfryerrecipe.co.uk offers even more other exciting serving ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fry Katsu Chicken

This air fry katsu chicken is perfect for anyone seeking a lighter version of this beloved dish without sacrificing flavour. With its crunchy coating and homemade katsu sauce, it’s bound to become a favourite in your household. Explore more delightful recipes at airfryerrecipe.co.uk.

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FAQs about Air Fry Katsu Chicken

What is the best way to ensure the panko sticks?

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Ensuring the panko sticks involves a proper egg wash and gently pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken.
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Can I use a different type of breadcrumb?

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Yes, but panko breadcrumbs are ideal for their light and crispy texture.
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How do I make the katsu sauce from scratch?

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Mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and a bit of sugar for homemade katsu sauce.
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What can I serve with air fry katsu chicken?

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Japanese curry sauce or simple veggies are great sides for this dish.
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