Jamie Oliver Chicken Katsu Curry Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

I still remember the first time I tried Chicken Katsu Curry. It was at a tiny Japanese spot tucked away in a busy city street. The crispy chicken combined with the rich, comforting curry sauce felt like a hug on a plate. When I discovered Jamie Oliver’s version, it instantly became a go-to at home – easy, tasty, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell amazing and your family gather around the table with big smiles.

If you’ve never made Chicken Katsu Curry before, or you’re just looking for a recipe that’s simple but doesn’t sacrifice on taste, Jamie’s take is perfect. Plus, it’s great for weeknights or impressing friends.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry Recipe

Jamie’s recipe is all about balancing texture and flavor. The chicken is coated in a crunchy panko crust and fried to golden perfection. The curry sauce is creamy, mildly spiced, and packed with umami goodness from simple ingredients. It’s a perfect blend of crispy and saucy, with just enough heat to keep things interesting.

Ingredients Needed

Before diving in, here’s what you’ll need. Don’t worry, most of these are pantry staples or easy to find in any grocery store.

• Chicken breasts (skinless, boneless) – the star of the dish
• Panko breadcrumbs – these give the chicken its legendary crunch
• Flour – for the first coating layer
• Eggs – help the breadcrumbs stick perfectly
• Vegetable oil – for frying
• Onion – diced, to build the curry base
• Garlic and ginger – for that classic curry punch
• Carrot – adds a subtle sweetness
• Japanese curry powder or curry roux – the soul of the sauce
• Soy sauce – brings umami depth
• Honey – just a touch for balance
• Chicken stock – to simmer the curry sauce
• Rice – steamed jasmine or sushi rice to serve alongside

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry

Here’s how I make it at home step-by-step. Follow this, and you’ll nail that perfect crispy chicken and rich curry sauce every time:

• Prep The Chicken

  Flatten each breast slightly so it cooks evenly. Pat dry.

• Coat The Chicken

  Dip in flour first, then beaten egg, then panko breadcrumbs. Press the crumbs in well.

• Fry The Chicken

  Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Fry chicken on medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

• Make The Curry Sauce

  Sweat onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan until soft. Add diced carrot and cook a few minutes. Stir in curry powder or roux, then pour in chicken stock. Simmer until thick and flavorful.

• Finish The Sauce

  Add soy sauce and honey. Taste and adjust seasoning.

• Serve

  Slice the chicken katsu. Plate over steamed rice. Ladle curry sauce generously on top.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

What makes this dish so satisfying goes beyond the flavors. Here’s a little science behind some ingredients:

• Panko Breadcrumbs

  These are lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs. Their flaky texture creates that unbeatable crunch when fried.

• Ginger And Garlic

  Both contain compounds that boost flavor and add a warm, spicy aroma that makes curries feel comforting.

• Soy Sauce

  It’s a natural umami booster. Umami is the savory taste that rounds out flavors and makes dishes addictive.

• Honey

  This tiny bit of sweetness balances the savory, salty, and spicy elements, giving the sauce a smooth finish.

Expert Tips

Over time, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take this recipe from great to next-level:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying chicken. This keeps the oil temperature steady and ensures a crisp crust.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic for the curry. Powder works in a pinch, but fresh gives a sharper, more vibrant flavor.
• Rest the chicken after frying. Letting it sit a few minutes lets juices redistribute and keeps it juicy.
• Make the curry sauce ahead. It tastes even better the next day once flavors meld.

Recipe Variations

One of the best parts about Chicken Katsu Curry is how flexible it is. Here are some fun twists to try:

• Vegetarian version: Swap chicken for breaded tofu or eggplant slices. Use vegetable stock in the curry.
• Spicy kick: Add chopped chili or cayenne to the curry sauce.
• Extra veggies: Throw in mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers for a more colorful curry.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers and gluten-free soy sauce.

Final Words

Cooking Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry at home is a satisfying journey. The crispy chicken and silky curry sauce make it feel like a special occasion even if it’s a simple weeknight dinner. It’s a recipe that invites you to get hands-on, experiment a bit, and share delicious food with loved ones.

FAQs

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry Recipe?

It’s a delicious Japanese-inspired dish with crispy breaded chicken served with a rich, flavorful curry sauce.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts For Jamie Oliver’s Katsu Curry?

Yes, chicken breasts work great for a leaner option. Just make sure to flatten them a bit for even cooking.

What’s The Secret To Getting Crispy Chicken For Katsu Curry?

The key is in the breading. Coat the chicken in flour, dip it in egg, then coat it in panko breadcrumbs before frying.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Katsu Curry Sauce Vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can swap the chicken stock for vegetable stock to make the sauce vegetarian-friendly.

What Sides Go Well With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry?

You can serve it with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a simple side salad to balance out the flavors.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Katsu Curry Spicier?

Add a bit of chili or curry powder to the sauce or sprinkle some fresh chili flakes on top for a kick.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Katsu Curry Sauce In Advance?

Yes, you can make the curry sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat it before serving.

What’s A Good Alternative To Panko Breadcrumbs For The Katsu Chicken?

You can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crackers if you don’t have panko on hand.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry?

It should take about 40 minutes from start to finish-15 for prep and 25 for cooking.

Can I Freeze Leftovers From Jamie Oliver’s Katsu Curry?

Yes, you can freeze both the chicken and the curry sauce separately. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.