Japanese Katsu Bowls with Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce

If you're looking for a delightful meal that brings a taste of Japan to your kitchen, these Japanese Katsu Bowls with Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce are just the ticket. My son, Jake, loves when I whip up this dish because he gets to dunk crispy chicken in that sweet and tangy sauce. It’s a family favorite that’s not only delicious but also super fun to make together.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s a fun way to enjoy a classic Asian dish at home.
• The homemade Tonkatsu sauce is a game changer.
• Perfect for a healthy dinner that satisfies everyone.

Pure Comfort

These Katsu Bowls are pure comfort food. The crispy chicken paired with fluffy rice and vibrant veggies makes for a colorful and hearty meal that warms the soul.

What You Need

• 1 lb 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs – You can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
• 1 cup 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but panko gives a crunchier texture.
• 1/2 cup 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
• 2 2 large eggs – Beaten, for coating the chicken.
• 1 tsp 1 tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground is best.
• for frying Vegetable oil – Can substitute with canola oil.
• 2 cups 2 cups cooked white rice – Brown rice can be used for a healthier option.
• 1 cup 1 cup shredded cabbage – Add carrots for extra color and crunch.
• For Tonkatsu Sauce:
• 1/4 cup 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp 2 tbsp soy sauce – Low-sodium soy sauce works well.
• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp sugar – Brown sugar can add a richer flavor.
• 1 tsp 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Time to Cook

Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 40 minutes | Difficulty: easy | Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by preparing the Tonkatsu sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Set it aside and let those flavors meld.
2. Next, take the chicken thighs and season them with salt and pepper. This step adds flavor right from the start, so don’t skip it.
3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This makes the breading process smooth and easy.
4. Coat each chicken thigh first in flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. The panko will give you that delightful crunch. Make sure to press the crumbs onto the chicken to stick well.
5. In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the juices run clear.
6. While the chicken is frying, prepare your rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork and keep it warm.
7. Once the chicken is done, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
8. To assemble your Katsu Bowls, start with a scoop of rice, add shredded cabbage, and top with the sliced chicken. Drizzle with the homemade Tonkatsu sauce and enjoy!
9. Feel free to garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for an extra touch. It’s all about personalizing your bowl!

Make It Perfect

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to get that perfect crispy texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
• If you want a little kick, add a dash of sriracha to the Tonkatsu sauce.

Mix It Up

• Try using pork cutlets instead of chicken for a traditional approach.
• Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies in your bowl.

Perfect Partners

• Pair with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing side.
• Serve with miso soup for a complete Japanese meal experience.

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FAQs

Conclusion

These Japanese Katsu Bowls with Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce are a delightful way to bring a taste of Asia to your dinner table. With a crispy chicken coating and that irresistible sauce, it's a dinner that your family will love. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy a fun and healthy dinner together!

Japanese Katsu Bowls with Homemade Tonkatsu Sauce

Japanese Katsu Bowls feature crispy breaded chicken served over fluffy white rice and shredded cabbage, topped with a sweet and tangy homemade Tonkatsu sauce. This comforting dish combines crunchy textures and vibrant flavors for a satisfying meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

Main

• Vegetable oil for frying, can substitute with canola oil

For Tonkatsu Sauce

Equipment

• Small bowl
• Large skillet
• Three shallow dishes
• Paper towels
• Fork

Method

 

1. Mix ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl to prepare Tonkatsu sauce. Set aside.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Set up three shallow dishes with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs for breading station.
4. Coat each chicken thigh in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing crumbs to stick.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
6. Cook rice according to package instructions, fluff with a fork, and keep warm.
7. Drain cooked chicken on paper towels and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
8. Assemble bowls with rice, shredded cabbage, sliced chicken, and drizzle with Tonkatsu sauce.
9. Optionally garnish with sesame seeds or green onions before serving.