Chicken Katsu is a Japanese-inspired crispy chicken dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. The secret? A perfectly seasoned and crunchy coating that locks in the juiciness of the chicken. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe will never disappoint!
But before we jump into the details, let’s talk about chicken breast preparation and the best seasonings for chicken to ensure you get the most flavorful and tender result every time.
How to Prepare Chicken Breast for the Best Results
Chicken breast is lean and versatile, making it a great option for many dishes, but it can sometimes turn out dry or tough if not prepared properly. Here are some tips to keep your chicken tender and juicy:
✔️ Flatten the Chicken: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken breast to an even thickness. This helps it cook evenly and prevents overcooking.
✔️ Season Generously: Chicken breast absorbs flavors well, so don’t be shy with your seasonings.
✔️ Marinate (Optional): If you have time, marinating the chicken for 30 minutes to a few hours in buttermilk, yogurt, or a light brine can make it extra juicy.
✔️ Coat Properly: A three-step breading process (flour → egg → breadcrumbs) ensures a crispy, golden crust.
Why One For All Rub is Perfect for Chicken Katsu
In this recipe, we’re using Poppamies One For All seasoning, a versatile and well-balanced rub that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering it. With a blend of garlic, paprika, and mild spices, it adds depth, warmth, and just the right amount of seasoning to create a rich, flavorful crust when fried.
Unlike heavy marinades or overpowering spice blends, One For All works perfectly for crispy-coated dishes like Chicken Katsu, as it provides a savory base with a slight kick, allowing the crunch and juiciness of the chicken to shine through. Whether you're air frying, pan frying, or deep frying, this rub brings out the best in your dish with minimal effort!
Crispy Chicken Katsu Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 200g chicken breast, flattened
- 1 tbsp Poppamies One For All seasoning
- Flour (for coating)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Flaky salt
To Serve:
- Spicy cabbage salad (mix sesame oil, chili flakes, salt & a touch of lemon)
- Mango & Habanero
Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken:
- Flatten the chicken breast to an even thickness using a rolling pin or meat mallet.
- Season generously with Poppamies One For All seasoning on both sides.
2️⃣ Coating Process:
- Dredge the chicken in flour, ensuring an even coat.
- Dip it into the beaten egg.
- Coat well with panko breadcrumbs for that signature crunch.
3️⃣ Fry to Perfection:
- Heat oil in a pan and deep-fry for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel and sprinkle with flaky salt.
4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice the crispy chicken into strips.
- Serve with spicy cabbage salad and a side of Mango & Habanero for the perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Want to take it to the next level? Try it in a Katsu sandwich, with rice, or topped with a fried egg for an even more indulgent meal.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy crispy chicken? Let us know in the comments