Air Fryer Chicken Katsu: Crispy Japanese Comfort Food

Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this Air Fryer Chicken Katsu recipe! Imagine perfectly crispy, panko breaded chicken cutlets that are golden brown and tender on the inside. This dish is not only a staple in Japanese cuisine but also incredibly easy to prepare with the help of your large air fryer. Whether you’re a fan of simple Japanese recipes or looking to try new air fryer oven recipes, this chicken katsu will not disappoint.

If you’re a fan of katsu photography, you’ll love how visually appealing this dish is. The crunchy exterior, combined with the tender chicken, makes for a perfect presentation. Serve it with homemade katsu sauce for an authentic touch, and watch your family rave about your cooking skills.

In this recipe, I’ll guide you through making Air Fryer Chicken Katsu, providing tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. From the crispy panko crust to the delicious tonkatsu sauce, this meal is sure to satisfy your cravings for Japanese chicken entrees.

The Best Chicken Katsu Recipe

This Air Fryer Chicken Katsu is a delightful twist on the traditional chicken tonkatsu recipe. The air-fried version is not only healthier but also retains that irresistible crunch that’s characteristic of fried chicken cutlets. Paired with a savory katsu sauce, it delivers a flavor explosion that’s both satisfying and mouthwatering.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Cooking spray
Katsu sauce for serving

Instructions

Prep the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness.
Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, mix flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.
Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.
Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, spraying lightly with cooking spray. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Slice the chicken katsu and serve it with warm katsu sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your crispy air fried chicken!