Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

Lunch/Dinner
Written By Brandon Hu

This Air Fryer Chicken Katsu is a crispy, juicy, high-protein take on the classic Japanese dish—without the deep fryer. Made with lean chicken breast and crunchy panko, and served with a sweet-savory homemade katsu sauce, it’s the perfect macro-friendly comfort meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Katsu Recipe

  • Crispy Without Frying: Achieve that golden crunch using an air fryer and a light spray of oil

  • High in Protein: Each serving packs 72g of lean protein

  • Classic Flavor: Paired with an authentic-style katsu sauce

  • Balanced Meal: Great with shredded cabbage, rice, or a simple salad

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

Chicken Katsu

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • Cooking spray (avocado oil or any preferred type)

Katsu Sauce

  • 1/4 cup reduced sugar ketchup

  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 tbsp oyster sauce

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar

How to Make Chicken Katsu in the Air Fryer

1. Prepare the Chicken

  • Butterfly and lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.

2. Bread the Chicken

  • Dredge in flour, shake off excess.

  • Dip into beaten eggs until fully coated.

  • Press into panko breadcrumbs, coating both sides evenly.

3. Air Fry

  • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.

  • Spray both sides of the breaded chicken with cooking spray.

  • Air fry at 350°F for 10 minutes, flip, spray again, and cook for another 10 minutes until golden and crispy.

4. Make the Katsu Sauce

  • Mix ketchup, Worcestershire, oyster sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl until smooth.

5. Serve

  • Slice the chicken into strips, drizzle with sauce, and plate with rice, shredded cabbage, or your favorite side.

Macros (Per Chicken Katsu Cutlet, No Sauce)

  • Calories: 570 kcal

  • Protein: 72g

  • Carbs: 36g

  • Fat: 14g

Tips & Variations

  • Lighten It Up: Use egg whites and reduce breadcrumbs for a lower-fat version

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour and gluten-free panko

  • Authentic Feel: Pair with shredded cabbage and a wedge of lemon

  • Make It a Katsu Bowl: Serve over jasmine rice with pickled veggies

Final Thoughts

Whether you're meal-prepping or treating yourself, this healthy air fryer chicken katsu hits the spot. With rich umami flavor and a satisfying crunch, it's everything you love about katsu—adjusted for your macros.

Hi! I’m Brandon!

Welcome to my food blog! I make recipes that are simple, macro-friendly, and delicious. I believe that a healthy diet doesn’t have to be boring! On my food blog, you’ll discover a huge variety of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack recipes that are nutritious, delicious, and perfect for meal prep! I’m so glad you are here!

Brandon Hu
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