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Katsu Curry Udon

Golden brown chicken katsu curry udon in a rustic bowl.

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This Katsu Curry Udon recipe brings together two beloved Japanese classics: crispy, golden-brown chicken katsu and a deeply flavorful, aromatic curry broth poured over thick, chewy udon noodles. It’s a meal that balances texture, warmth, and complexity in every spoonful.

Ingredients

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For the Curry Broth:

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 carrots, cut into chunks
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 packet Japanese curry roux (or 34 cubes)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Chicken Katsu:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying (such as canola or peanut oil)

For the Udon Noodles:

  • 2 packs fresh or frozen udon noodles (about 7 oz each)

Optional Toppings:

  • Soft-boiled eggs, halved
  • Sliced green onions
  • Pickled red ginger (beni shoga)
  • Toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Prepare the Curry Broth

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened and lightly golden, about 5–7 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the carrots and potatoes, pouring in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
  4. Break the Japanese curry roux into small pieces and whisk into the broth until fully dissolved. Stir in the soy sauce. Let the curry simmer gently while you prepare the other components.

Make the Chicken Katsu

  1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in the egg, then press firmly into the panko to coat completely.
  4. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken in the hot oil and fry for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack to drain and rest before slicing.

Cook the Udon Noodles

  1. Bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Cook the udon noodles according to package directions—usually 2–3 minutes for fresh or frozen udon.
  2. Drain well and divide among serving bowls.

Assemble Your Katsu Curry Udon

  1. Ladle the hot curry broth with vegetables over the udon noodles in each bowl.
  2. Slice the chicken katsu diagonally into 1-inch strips and place on top of the curry.
  3. Garnish with your chosen toppings: soft-boiled eggs, green onions, pickled ginger, or sesame seeds.

Notes

Pro tip: If you prefer a smoother curry, you can blend half of the broth mixture before adding the roux for a more uniform texture. Store components separately for best results. Keep curry broth, cooked udon, and sliced katsu in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

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