Are you craving a taste of Japanese cuisine without the hassle of deep frying? Look no further than Air Fryer Chicken Katsu! This mouthwatering dish offers the perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken and savory flavors, all cooked to perfection in your trusty air fryer.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

What is Chicken Katsu?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore what Chicken Katsu is all about. Originating from Japan, Chicken Katsu is a popular dish made of breaded and fried chicken cutlets. Traditionally, it’s served with a tangy and slightly sweet tonkatsu sauce, along with rice and shredded cabbage.

The Air Fryer Advantage

While Chicken Katsu is traditionally deep-fried, using an air fryer offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in crispy exteriors and juicy interiors, all with a fraction of the oil typically used in deep frying. Plus, they’re convenient and easy to use, making them a kitchen essential for busy individuals and families alike.

Gathering Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

To make Air Fryer Chicken Katsu, you’ll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For the tonkatsu sauce:

1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon mirin or honey or sugar
1 teaspoon onion powder

Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

Prepare the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Set Up Your Breading Station: In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the basket, making sure they are not touching each other. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Cook Until Golden Brown: Air fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Make the Tonkatsu Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the tonkatsu sauce by combining the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mirin (or honey, or sugar), and mustard in a small saucepan. Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a serving platter. Drizzle with the tonkatsu sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds, if desired. Serve with steamed rice and shredded cabbage for a complete meal.

Tips for Success with Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are key to achieving that crispy, light texture that Chicken Katsu is known for. They create a beautiful golden crust without absorbing too much oil.
Don’t Crowd the Air Fryer: Make sure to leave enough space between the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation. This ensures that each piece cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving. This guarantees that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Experiment with Sauces: While tonkatsu sauce is the classic accompaniment to Chicken Katsu, feel free to get creative with your dipping sauces. Try a spicy mayo or a tangy honey mustard for a delicious twist.