Name: Easy Baked Chicken Katsu with Pineapple Katsu Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 piece boneless skinless chicken breast (The star of the dish! Choose fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.); to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the flavors.); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (Helps the egg adhere to the chicken and forms a base for the crispy panko coating.); 1 large egg (beaten); 3/4 cup panko (This Japanese breadcrumb adds extra crunch and texture to the katsu.); to taste Cooking spray (Used to lightly coat the chicken for a crisp finish without the need for excessive oil.); 1 tablespoon soy sauce (Adds umami flavor to the katsu sauce and complements the sweetness of the pineapple.); 2 teaspoons cornstarch (Thickens the katsu sauce for a perfect consistency.); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (Balances the acidity of the pineapple and vinegar in the sauce.); 2 teaspoons brown sugar (Adds depth to the sauce and enhances its sweetness.); 1 tablespoon white vinegar (Provides tanginess to the sauce, brightening the overall flavor.); 3 tablespoons pineapple juice (Freshens the sauce and adds a fruity note. Canned juice works well too.); 1 teaspoon ketchup (Complements the sweet and tangy flavors in the sauce.); to taste white steamed rice (optional, perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce.); to taste pineapple chunks (optional, for garnish and an extra burst of flavor.)

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If you’re in search of a delightful and crispy dinner option that brings the flavors of Japanese cuisine right to your kitchen, look no further! This Easy Baked Chicken Katsu with Pineapple Katsu Sauce is not only simple to make but is also bursting with flavor. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the katsu sauce, with its sweet and tangy notes, takes the dish to the next level. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend treat, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Top Reasons to Make Easy Baked Chicken Katsu with Pineapple Katsu Sauce

– **Quick and Simple**: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques.
– **Healthier Option**: Baking instead of frying means you can enjoy the crispy texture without all the extra oil.
– **Flavorful Sauce**: The homemade pineapple katsu sauce is a delicious twist that adds a unique flavor to your dish.
– **Versatile Meal**: Serve it with rice, salad, or even in a sandwich for a delicious lunch the next day.
– **Crowd-Pleaser**: Both kids and adults will love this dish, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredient Notes

1 boneless skinless chicken breast: The star of the dish! Choose fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.
Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the flavors.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps the egg adhere to the chicken and forms a base for the crispy panko coating.
1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs.
3/4 cup panko: This Japanese breadcrumb adds extra crunch and texture to the katsu.
Cooking spray: Used to lightly coat the chicken for a crisp finish without the need for excessive oil.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami flavor to the katsu sauce and complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: Thickens the katsu sauce for a perfect consistency.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the pineapple and vinegar in the sauce.
2 teaspoons brown sugar: Adds depth to the sauce and enhances its sweetness.
1 tablespoon white vinegar: Provides tanginess to the sauce, brightening the overall flavor.
3 tablespoons pineapple juice: Freshens the sauce and adds a fruity note. Canned juice works well too.
1 teaspoon ketchup: Complements the sweet and tangy flavors in the sauce.
White steamed rice (optional): A perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pineapple chunks (optional): For garnish and an extra burst of flavor.

Before You Start: Equipment

Baking sheet: To bake the chicken katsu; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Three shallow bowls: For the flour, egg, and panko breading stations.
Whisk: To beat the egg and mix the katsu sauce ingredients.
Small saucepan: For preparing the pineapple katsu sauce.
Meat mallet or rolling pin: To pound the chicken breast to an even thickness for even cooking.

Step-by-Step: Easy Baked Chicken Katsu with Pineapple Katsu Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the boneless skinless chicken breast and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to about 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking.

Step 2: Season and Bread the Chicken

Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breast with salt. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dredge the chicken first in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it in panko, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the top with cooking spray to encourage browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Make the Pineapple Katsu Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the pineapple katsu sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the soy sauce, cornstarch, granulated sugar, brown sugar, white vinegar, pineapple juice, and ketchup. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Serve

Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken katsu into strips and serve it over a bed of white steamed rice if desired. Drizzle with the pineapple katsu sauce and garnish with pineapple chunks for extra flavor and presentation.

In-Season Swaps

Chicken Variants: Substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Fruit Options: Use mango or peach juice instead of pineapple juice for a different fruity twist.
Breadcrumb Alternatives: Try using homemade breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.
Vegetable Additions: Add steamed broccoli or snow peas on the side for a fresh, colorful plate.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making Easy Baked Chicken Katsu with Pineapple Katsu Sauce, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken as it bakes to avoid dryness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Soggy Katsu: Ensure the chicken is well-coated in panko and lightly sprayed with cooking spray for maximum crispiness.
Thick Sauce: If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a little more pineapple juice or water to achieve your desired consistency.
Seasoning: Adjust the salt and sugar levels in the sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Easy Baked Chicken Katsu with Pineapple Katsu Sauce fresh:

Storage: Store any leftover chicken and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven for crispiness or in the microwave for convenience, though it may not stay as crispy.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked breaded chicken for up to 2 months. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Meal Prep: This dish can be made in advance and stored in portions for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

What can I use if I don’t have panko?

You can use regular breadcrumbs, but for the best texture, crushing cornflakes or using crushed crackers can also work well.

Can I use other meats for katsu?

Yes! This recipe works well with pork chops or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the katsu sauce for a spicy kick!

Serve with These

Let’s Eat

This Easy Baked Chicken Katsu with Pineapple Katsu Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to your table. With its crispy chicken and flavorful sauce, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or enjoying the leftovers for lunch, this meal is sure to be a hit. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a taste of Japan right at home!