Description
Crispy Chicken Katsu Bento Box is a Japanese-inspired meal featuring golden-fried chicken cutlets served with steamed rice, shredded cabbage, pickles, and a tangy katsu sauce. It’s a balanced, satisfying dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup Japanese pickles or sliced cucumbers
- 2 tbsp tonkatsu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch).
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Coat each piece in flour, dip in beaten egg, then press into panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken cutlets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Slice the chicken into strips and drizzle with tonkatsu sauce.
- Assemble the bento box: place rice in one section, top with sesame seeds; add shredded cabbage and pickles on the side; place chicken katsu slices last.
- Serve immediately or pack for lunch.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness.
- Air fryer method: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve with miso soup or edamame for a complete meal.
- You can replace chicken with pork or tofu for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Fried
- Cuisine: Japanese