Crunchy Oven-baked Chicken Katsu Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Name: Crunchy Oven-Baked Chicken Katsu
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; Cooking spray or 2 tbsp olive oil; Optional: Tonkatsu sauce for dipping

Published: January 13, 2026

by Nora Bennett

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Crunchy Oven-baked Chicken Katsu recipe offers an easy preparation that even beginners can handle
The flavor profile boasts a delightful balance of savory and crispy textures that are hard to resist
Its visual appeal is stunning; the golden crust makes it look like it came straight from a restaurant
Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with rice, salads, or even sandwiches!

I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The kids’ eyes lit up like Christmas morning when they saw the chicken katsu on their plates!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well but adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give your chicken that ultra-crunchy texture. Look for fresh panko for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour: A light dusting helps the egg wash stick and adds another layer of crispiness.
Eggs: Use two eggs to create an adhesive layer for the breadcrumbs, ensuring maximum crunch.
Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key! Don’t skip this step; it elevates the flavor of your chicken.
Cooking Spray or Oil: Lightly spray or brush oil onto the chicken to help achieve that beautiful golden color in the oven. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips for chicken recipe.
Optional Dipping Sauce (Tonkatsu Sauce): This sweet and tangy sauce pairs perfectly with chicken katsu and takes it to another level!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken gets nice and crispy while cooking evenly.

Prepare Your Chicken: While waiting for the oven to heat up, take each chicken breast and pound them gently with a meat mallet until they’re about half an inch thick. This step ensures even cooking.

Set Up Your Breading Station: In three separate bowls, place flour in one, whisked eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in the last. Season each bowl lightly with salt and pepper for added flavor.

Bread Your Chicken: Take one piece of chicken at a time; coat it first in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash until well coated before finally rolling it in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.

Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place each breaded piece of chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush oil over each piece to promote browning.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when it’s beautifully crispy and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Now sit back and enjoy as your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas!

This Crunchy Oven-baked Chicken Katsu Recipe is not just food; it’s an experience filled with flavors that will keep you coming back for more!

You Must Know

This crunchy oven-baked chicken katsu recipe is not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to frying
The aroma of panko breadcrumbs toasting in the oven will have everyone in the house eager for dinner
Don’t forget to serve it with a zesty dipping sauce for an unforgettable experience

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve crispy and juicy chicken katsu, start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Bread your chicken first, then place it on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your chicken katsu by adding spices to the flour or using different breadcrumb types like whole wheat or panko mixed with sesame seeds. You can also try serving it over rice or as a sandwich.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken katsu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain its crunchiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making this crunchy oven-baked chicken katsu, ensure the chicken is dry before breading; this helps the coating stick better
Also, don’t rush the baking process; low and slow gives you that perfect crunch!
Lastly, always let the chicken rest after baking for juicier results

Memories flood back of my first attempt at making this dish—my family couldn’t stop raving about how crunchy yet tender it was. I still smile thinking about their reactions!

FAQ

What is chicken katsu?

Chicken katsu is a Japanese dish made of breaded and fried chicken cutlets.

Can I use other proteins for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork or tofu for different flavors.

How do I make my katsu extra crispy?

For extra crunch, double coat your chicken using flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs.

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📖 Recipe Card