How is chicken katsu different from fried chicken?

Chicken Katsu is different from fried chicken as it is typically breaded with panko breadcrumbs, resulting in a lighter and crispier coating. Fried chicken often uses a different breading or batter, leading to a thicker and heavier texture. Additionally, Chicken Katsu is commonly served with a unique Tonkatsu sauce, adding a distinct flavor profile.

How to air fry pre-breaded chicken?

Preheat the air fryer. Place the pre-breaded chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at the recommended temperature and time stated on the package or recipe, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Does breading work in an air fryer?

Yes, breading works well in an air fryer. The hot air circulation in the air fryer helps to crisp up the breaded coating, providing a similar result to traditional frying but with less oil.

Chicken Katsu Air Fryer with Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce

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5 from 3 reviews

I love this crowd-pleasing Air Fryer Chicken Katsu Recipe. With the help of the air fryer, you can make this crispy and healthy-ish.

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 pieces of chicken katsu 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), sliced in half

1 tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp avocado oil

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

3 eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Chicken Katsu Sauce (Tonkatsu Sauce)

1/2 cup ketchup

3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

2 tbsp sugar

1 tsp garlic powder

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Instructions

CHICKEN: Slice the chicken breasts in half. You should have 4 pieces. Season with salt and pepper on both sides and set aside.
Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.
Prepare the flour, beaten eggs and panko breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.
Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour. Shake off the excess flour.
Dredge in beaten eggs then the panko breadcrumbs. Press the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs to make sure the panko adheres well.
AIR FRY: Spray avocado oil on top of the chicken, then air fry the breaded chicken breasts for 15 minutes at 400 degrees - flip halfway and spray more avocado oil on the other side to ensure both sides get a crispy texture.
CHICKEN KATSU SAUCE: While the chicken is air frying, make your tonkatsu sauce. Combine the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, sugar and garlic powder. Mix well and set aside.
Rest the chicken, slice and top with chicken katsu sauce. Serve with rice.