Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

This Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is a delightful fusion of crispy chicken and rich Japanese curry, perfect for any occasion. The comforting flavors and textures make it a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will surely impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The combination of crispy chicken and savory curry creates a warm, satisfying meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, with a side of salad, or even in a wrap for a fun twist.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delightful taste of this Hawaiian-inspired dish.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the chicken katsu in advance for an easy weeknight dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry efficiently, gather the essential tools listed below.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Grater

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for frying the chicken to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for organizing your ingredients and preparing coatings for the chicken.
• Whisk: Useful for beating eggs and mixing sauces smoothly.
• Grater: Helps you easily prepare fresh ginger and Fuji apples for added flavor.

Ingredients

This Chicken Katsu Curry is a copycat version of one I had on my trip to Hawaii. The combination of crispy chicken, Japanese curry, and warm rice is so comforting, and I guarantee it will be one of the best bites of your life.

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)

To Serve

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

How to Make Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Curry Sauce

1. Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic, ginger, grated apples, and chopped carrots; cook until tender.
4. Pour in the chicken stock and add soy sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. Break up the Japanese curry mix into pieces and stir until fully dissolved.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Dip each chicken thigh into flour, shaking off excess.
3. Next, coat it with beaten eggs before pressing it into panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry each breaded chicken thigh until golden brown on each side—about 5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer cooked chicken to paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Serve Your Dish

1. Place cooked rice on each plate.
2. Ladle generous amounts of curry sauce over rice.
3. Slice fried chicken into strips and arrange on top; drizzle with katsu sauce if desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry!

How to Serve Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

Serving Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is all about creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavors and textures for a fulfilling meal.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the crispy chicken katsu over warm, fluffy rice to soak up the rich curry sauce.

With Katsu Sauce Drizzle

• Add a generous drizzle of katsu sauce on top for an extra layer of flavor that complements the curry perfectly.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Sprinkle some finely chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch and vibrant color that brightens the dish.

Alongside Pickled Vegetables

• Include a small side of pickled vegetables to provide a tangy contrast to the savory curry, enhancing your overall dining experience.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a light salad dressed in sesame vinaigrette for a refreshing balance to the hearty curry.

How to Perfect Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

To ensure your Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is absolutely delicious, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion will enhance your cooking process and final dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce like onions, garlic, and ginger will elevate the flavors in your curry significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, consider adding chili flakes or fresh chili peppers when cooking the curry.
• Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensure that the chicken thighs are pounded evenly to achieve uniform cooking and crispiness during frying.
• Double-Bread the Chicken: For an extra crispy texture, dip the chicken in flour again after the egg wash before coating it with panko breadcrumbs.
• Let the Curry Simmer: Allowing the curry to simmer for longer helps develop deeper flavors; aim for at least 30 minutes if time permits.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful dish beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Fresh steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the curry.
2. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with the warm curry.
3. Fried Rice: Serve fried rice as a hearty accompaniment; it absorbs flavors and makes for an indulgent side.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes enhances the savory profile of the curry while adding fiber.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can serve as a comforting starter that pairs nicely with Japanese cuisine.
6. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame beans offer protein and are fun to snack on while enjoying your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for.

• Skipping the pounded chicken: Not pounding the chicken thighs to ½-inch thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure uniform thickness for a crispy coating.
• Overcooking the onions: Allowing the onions to caramelize too much may overpower other flavors. Cook them until they are soft and translucent for a balanced taste.
• Using low-quality curry mix: A subpar curry mix can compromise the dish’s flavor. Choose a high-quality Japanese curry mix for authentic taste.
• Neglecting the rice: Serving Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry without properly cooked rice can diminish the meal’s heartiness. Cook your rice according to package instructions for best results.
• Not letting the katsu rest: Cutting into the chicken katsu immediately after frying can cause it to dry out. Let it rest for a few minutes to retain moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place curry and katsu on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm curry in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry that many home cooks have.

What is Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry?

Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is a delicious fusion dish featuring crispy chicken served with flavorful Japanese curry and rice, embodying comfort food at its finest.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe is versatile; you can substitute chicken with turkey or beef based on your preference while maintaining similar cooking methods.

How spicy is Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry?

The spice level primarily depends on the curry mix used. Many Japanese curry mixes offer mild options, making it suitable for all palates.

Is there a vegetarian version of Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock to create a delightful vegetarian dish.

Final Thoughts

Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is not just comfort food; it’s an exciting blend of textures and flavors that will please anyone at your table. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrition. Try this recipe soon—it’s sure to become a favorite!

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Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

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

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry, a comforting fusion dish that brings together crispy chicken and rich Japanese curry. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home. The warm, savory sauce pairs beautifully with tender chicken and fluffy rice, making it a family favorite. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, this dish will impress everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

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• 2 large onions
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp ginger
• 2 Fuji apples
• 2 carrots (chopped)
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 block Japanese curry mix
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (pounded to ½-inch thickness)
• neutral oil for frying
• cooked rice
• katsu sauce (homemade or store-bought)

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Instructions

1. For the curry sauce: Heat oil in a skillet, sauté onions until translucent, add garlic, ginger, grated apples, and carrots. Pour in chicken stock and soy sauce; bring to a simmer before adding the Japanese curry mix until dissolved.
2. For the chicken: Set up three bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken thigh first in flour, then egg, followed by panko.
3. Fry the chicken in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve rice topped with curry sauce and sliced chicken katsu.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 120mg