Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

This Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry recipe brings the flavors of Hawaii right to your kitchen. With its crispy chicken and rich Japanese curry, it’s a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. This comforting meal is easy to prepare and sure to impress with its unique blend of flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and sweet apples creates a deliciously complex flavor profile.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal that suits various tastes.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty dish, making it a great choice for family meals.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat when needed—perfect for busy weeknights!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, ensure you have the right tools on hand. These essentials will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large skillet or frying pan
• A cutting board
• A chef’s knife
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or frying pan: Ideal for frying the chicken evenly while allowing enough space to avoid overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely and efficiently.
• Chef’s knife: A versatile tool for precise chopping of vegetables and meat, enhancing your prep speed.

Ingredients

For this delicious Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Curry Sauce

• 1/4 cup neutral oil
• 2 large onions (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp ginger (minced)
• 2 Fuji apples (grated)
• 2 carrots (chopped)
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 block Japanese curry mix

For the Chicken Katsu

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (pounded to ½-inch thickness)

For Serving

• Cooked rice
• Katsu sauce (homemade or store-bought)

How to Make Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Start by pounding the chicken thighs to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly.
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Dip it into the beaten eggs until fully coated.
3. Finally, coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat neutral oil over medium heat.
2. Once hot, carefully place the breaded chicken in the pan.
3. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Curry Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add chopped onions, garlic, ginger, grated apples, and chopped carrots. Sauté until softened.
2. Pour in chicken stock and soy sauce; bring to a simmer.
3. Stir in the block of Japanese curry mix until dissolved. Cook until thickened.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

1. On plates, serve a generous scoop of cooked rice topped with curry sauce.
2. Slice the fried chicken katsu and arrange on top of the curry.
3. Drizzle with katsu sauce for extra flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry—a delightful fusion that brings warmth and comfort!

How to Serve Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. The combination of crispy chicken and rich curry pairs beautifully with different accompaniments, making it a versatile main course.

With Steamed White Rice

• Steamed white rice is a classic pairing that helps absorb the flavorful curry sauce, providing a perfect balance of textures.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Adding pickled vegetables like pickled daikon or cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch and a tangy contrast to the savory curry.

On a Salad

• Serve the chicken katsu over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option. Drizzle with sesame dressing for added flavor.

With Naan Bread

• For an interesting twist, serve alongside naan bread. The soft bread can be used to scoop up the curry, making each bite enjoyable.

With Kimchi

• A side of kimchi introduces a spicy and fermented element that complements the dish’s flavors while adding depth.

How to Perfect Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

To ensure you achieve the best version of Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry, follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors in your curry, making it taste vibrant and delicious.
• Pound the chicken evenly: Ensuring that your chicken thighs are pounded to ½-inch thickness promotes even cooking and crispiness.
• Control oil temperature: Maintaining an appropriate frying temperature prevents soggy katsu. The oil should be hot enough for sizzling but not smoking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack after frying keeps it crispy by preventing steam from making it soggy.
• Customize spice levels: If you prefer spicier curry, feel free to add chili powder or flakes according to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

Pairing side dishes with Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting start to your meal, enhancing the Japanese theme of the dinner.

2. Edamame
   Lightly salted edamame makes for a nutritious snack or side that complements the richness of the curry without overpowering it.

3. Japanese Potato Salad
   Creamy potato salad with cucumbers adds a delightful texture contrast while offering refreshing flavors alongside your main dish.

4. Fried Tofu
   Crispy fried tofu serves as an excellent vegetarian option that absorbs any leftover curry sauce on your plate.

5. Sautéed Bok Choy
   This quick sautéed green adds color and nutrients to your plate while its mild flavor balances out the richness of the katsu curry.

6. Cucumber Salad
   A simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar offers a refreshing crunch that pairs well with hearty dishes like katsu curry.

7. Steamed Broccoli
   Steamed broccoli adds nutrition and vibrant color, making your meal visually appealing while complementing its flavors.

8. Seaweed Salad
   This light salad adds umami flavor and texture, rounding out your meal nicely without overwhelming other tastes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry, it’s easy to overlook some key aspects that can affect the final dish.

• Bold preparation: Not prepping ingredients before cooking can lead to chaos. Ensure all vegetables are chopped and chicken is pounded ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience.
• Bold oil temperature: Using oil that’s not hot enough will result in soggy chicken. Heat the oil until it’s shimmering before adding the chicken for that perfect crispiness.
• Bold curry mix: Ignoring the type of curry mix can change the flavor profile. Choose a Japanese curry mix that suits your taste preference—mild or spicy!
• Bold rice choice: Using the wrong type of rice will affect texture. Opt for short-grain rice for a stickier, more authentic experience.
• Bold cooking time: Over or undercooking the chicken can ruin your dish. Ensure each piece is cooked through and golden brown by monitoring the cooking time closely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry.

How do I make Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for a delicious alternative.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts; just be mindful of cooking time as they may cook faster than thighs.

What side dishes pair well with Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry?

Serve it with steamed broccoli, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How spicy is Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry?

The spice level depends on the curry mix used. Choose mild varieties if you prefer less heat, or go for spicy mixes for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level according to your taste. Give it a try, and enjoy a taste of Hawaii right at home!

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Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the flavors of Hawaii with this delightful Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry. This dish features crispy, breaded chicken thighs served over a rich and aromatic Japanese curry sauce made with fresh vegetables and sweet apples.

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Ingredients

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• 1/4 cup neutral oil
• 2 large onions (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp ginger (minced)
• 2 Fuji apples (grated)
• 2 carrots (chopped)
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 block Japanese curry mix
• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (pounded to ½-inch thickness)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Cooked rice for serving
• Katsu sauce for drizzling

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Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken by pounding it to an even thickness.
2. Set up a breading station with three dishes: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the breaded chicken in heated oil until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
5. In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, ginger, grated apples, and carrots until softened. Add chicken stock and soy sauce; bring to a simmer before stirring in the curry mix until dissolved.
6. Serve cooked rice topped with curry sauce and sliced chicken katsu drizzled with katsu sauce.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 100mg