Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce offer a flavorful and comforting meal that combines crispy breaded chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, tangy tonkatsu sauce. This recipe brings the classic Japanese dish right to your table with easy-to-follow steps and delicious results. It’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner that balances crunchy textures with savory sauce and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs, beaten
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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Vegetable oil, for frying
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2 cups cooked white rice
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Shredded cabbage or lettuce, for serving
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Tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Directions
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
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Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
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Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
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Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
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Slice the chicken into strips.
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Assemble the bowls by placing cooked rice at the base, topping with shredded cabbage or lettuce, and arranging the sliced chicken on top.
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Drizzle generously with tonkatsu sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 2
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Substitute chicken for traditional tonkatsu.
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Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
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Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots to the bowl for extra nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain crispiness or microwave covered until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked.
Is tonkatsu sauce available in stores?
Yes, tonkatsu sauce is commonly found in Asian grocery stores or online.
Can I make my own tonkatsu sauce?
Yes, you can make a simple version using ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and sugar.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely, boneless thighs work well and stay juicy.
How do I keep the chicken crispy after cooking?
Serve immediately or reheat in a skillet rather than microwave.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Use gluten-free panko and gluten-free tonkatsu sauce.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
Miso soup, pickled vegetables, or a simple salad complement it nicely.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and rice ahead but assemble just before serving.
How spicy is tonkatsu sauce?
It is generally mild and slightly sweet, not spicy.
Can I substitute the cabbage with another vegetable?
Yes, shredded lettuce, kale, or thinly sliced cucumbers work well.
Conclusion
Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy crispy breaded chicken paired with flavorful sauce and fresh rice. This easy recipe delivers authentic Japanese flavors with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special meal, these bowls are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
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Japanese Katsu Bowls with Tonkatsu Sauce
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- Author: Olivia
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
Enjoy crispy breaded chicken served over steamed rice and topped with savory, tangy tonkatsu sauce. This Japanese katsu bowl recipe is easy to make and perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Katsu:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Tonkatsu Sauce:
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp mirin (optional)
1 tsp sugar
For Serving:
Steamed white rice
Shredded cabbage or mixed greens
Sliced green onions (optional)
Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten egg, then coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Tonkatsu Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar until smooth.
- Assemble the Bowls: Place steamed rice in serving bowls, top with shredded cabbage or greens, then slice the fried chicken and arrange on top. Drizzle generously with tonkatsu sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with tofu for variation.
- For a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
- Serve with pickled vegetables or miso soup for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese