A beloved Japanese dish featuring crispy panko-coated chicken cutlets served with a rich, aromatic curry sauce and sticky white rice, perfect for a satisfying homemade ‘fakeaway’ experience that saves money.

Homemade Katsu Curry Fakeaway
A beloved Japanese dish featuring crispy panko-coated chicken cutlets served with a rich, aromatic curry sauce and sticky white rice, perfect for a satisfying homemade 'fakeaway' experience that saves money.
Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breast boneless
- 0.5 cup plain flour
- 2 pieces large eggs beaten
- 1.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger grated
- 2 tablespoons mild curry powder
- 1 tablespoon plain flour for sauce
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock hot
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 0.5 cup coconut milk full fat
- 2 cups cooked rice basmati or sushi
- 2 tablespoons spring onions sliced
- pickled ginger optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Katsu Chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner cutlets. Place between two sheets of cling film and pound gently to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch).
- Set up a dredging station: one shallow dish with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Season the flour with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in egg, and finally coat generously with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken cutlets for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels. Keep warm.
- Make the Katsu Curry Sauce: In a saucepan, sauté the chopped onion in a little oil over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the curry powder and flour, cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the hot chicken or vegetable stock until smooth and no lumps remain. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the soy sauce and honey/sugar. If using, add the coconut milk and stir until combined. Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Assemble and Serve: Slice the cooked chicken katsu into strips. Serve immediately with sticky rice, a generous pour of the warm katsu curry sauce, and a sprinkle of sliced spring onions. Add pickled ginger if desired.
Notes
For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken cutlets for 1 minute just before serving. The curry sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Adjust curry powder for desired spice level. Serve with pickled ginger or a side salad for extra freshness.
