Air Fryer Chicken Katsu
Ready in about 29 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Crisp panko-crusted chicken cutlets, golden outside and juicy within, ready for a drizzle of katsu curry sauce. The air fryer crisps the breadcrumbs perfectly with just a spritz of oil for a lighter take on the Japanese favourite.
Written for 4. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, butterflied
- 80 g plain flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 120 g panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- Oil spray
- Katsu curry sauce, to serve
Method
- 1Season the flour with salt and pepper.
- 2Coat each cutlet in flour, then egg, then panko, pressing firmly.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F) and spray the crumb well with oil.
- 4Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
- 5Check the centre reaches 74°C (165°F).
- 6Slice and serve with rice and katsu curry sauce.
Tips for the best results
- Toasting the panko in a dry pan first gives an even deeper golden colour.
- Butterfly the breast so it cooks quickly and stays juicy.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer chicken katsu steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the flip halfway, which leaves one side pale.
- Trusting the clock instead of a probe - Air Fryer Chicken Katsu is ready at 74°C / 165°F in the thickest part.
- Letting wet coating pieces touch, which peels the crust and keeps it soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer chicken katsu?
A typical starting point is 190°C / 375°F for 12-15 min, flip halfway. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
How do I know air fryer chicken katsu is cooked through?
Use a probe in the thickest part. Air Fryer Chicken Katsu should reach 74°C / 165°F. Rest a few minutes before slicing so juices settle.
How many people does air fryer chicken katsu serve?
This recipe is written for 4. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.