Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Katsu is a healthier and quicker version of the traditional Japanese breaded and fried chicken cutlet. By using the air fryer, you get that perfectly crispy, golden coating with a fraction of the oil. The tender chicken breast is coated in panko breadcrumbs and seasoned to perfection, making it a deliciously crispy and juicy dish. It’s perfect for serving with a side of rice, salad, or even in a sandwich.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts
panko breadcrumbs
all-purpose flour
eggs
garlic powder
onion powder
salt and pepper
soy sauce (for marinating)
sesame oil (optional)
cooking spray

directions

Prep the Chicken: Begin by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch, for uniform cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken: Lightly marinate the chicken in soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil for 10-15 minutes. This step adds extra flavor to the chicken.
Set Up Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, add flour. In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it evenly with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
Air Fry the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Spray the top of the chicken with a bit more cooking spray.
Cook the Chicken: Air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with rice, shredded cabbage, or a drizzle of tonkatsu sauce if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 10-15 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the panko breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based protein or tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian take on Chicken Katsu.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour to make this dish gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Air Fryer Chicken Katsu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to re-crisp the coating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may need a slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness.

Do I need to flip the chicken halfway through?
Yes, flipping the chicken halfway through ensures an even crisp on both sides.

Can I make this without marinating the chicken?
While marinating adds flavor, you can skip the marinating step and still get a tasty result. Just make sure to season the chicken well.

Can I make Chicken Katsu in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, but the texture won’t be as crispy as the air fryer version.

Can I freeze the breaded chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken before cooking. Once breaded, place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Katsu is a quick and easy way to enjoy the deliciously crispy and tender chicken cutlet without all the oil. The air fryer provides that perfect crunch with less mess and fewer calories, making this Japanese-inspired dish a great option for a weeknight meal or weekend treat. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a healthier take on a classic favorite!