Golden Crispy Chicken Katsu

Ingredients

• 2 chicken fillets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper or chili powder (optional), to taste
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons seasoned flour
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Clean the chicken fillets thoroughly. In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, salt, and ground black pepper (or chili powder, if using) with the chicken. Allow the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Prepare the Breading Station: In a shallow dish, combine the seasoned flour and all-purpose flour. In another dish, beat the egg. Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.

3. Bread the Chicken:

   • Dredge each marinated chicken fillet in the flour mixture, coating it evenly.
   • Dip the floured chicken into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Coat the chicken fillet again in the flour mixture.
   • Return the chicken to the beaten egg for a second dip.
   • Finally, coat the chicken fillet with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.

4. Fry the Chicken:

   • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over low to medium heat. The oil should be enough to shallow fry the chicken.
   • Carefully place the breaded chicken fillets in the hot oil.
   • Fry the chicken on each side until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
   • For a crispier coating, you may refrigerate the breaded chicken for a short time before frying.

5. Serve: Once cooked, drain the chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce, mayonnaise, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy your homemade crispy Chicken Katsu!