Katsu sando, or chicken katsu sandwich, is a Japanese sandwich made with crispy breaded chicken and tangy tonkatsu sauce on soft milk bread. Popular in Japanese cafés, specialty sandwich shops, and convenience stores, they are loved by many and suprisingly simple to make.
Our Asian market in Naperville, IL is a premier source for the authentic Japanese ingredients needed to recreate the chicken katsu sandwich at home.
What makes a chicken katsu sandwich unique?
A chicken katsu sandwich is classic comfort food in Japan. Featuring crispy chicken contrasted with pillowy milk bread (shokupan), its simple ingredients allow each flavor to shine. It can be enjoyed as lunch, a grab-and-go snack, or the highlight of a picnic meal.
Compared to the American fast food chicken sandwich which is dredged in a flour-based batter and buttermilk for a heavier, denser texture, chicken katsu has a lighter crunch and is generally sliced before placing it on the sandwich.
Ingredients for an Authentic Chicken Katsu Sandwich
To make chicken katsu, you will need:
- Boneless chicken breast or thighs
- Flour
- Eggs
- Panko bread crumbs
For the sandwich, you will need:
- Japanese milk bread (shokupan) or soft white bread
- Tonkatsu sauce
- Shredded cabbage
- Butter (optional)
Authentic Japanese ingredients such as panko, tonkatsu, and shokupan are available at International Fresh Market.
Step-By-Step Instructions for Making a Delicious Chicken Katsu Sandwich
Making a chicken katsu sandwich at home is easy. You will need a pan and oil for frying the chicken.
- Pound the chicken to an even, flat thickness.
- Coat it in flour, then beaten egg, then panko crumbs.
- Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
- When done, remove the chicken from the frying pan and let it rest briefly before slicing.
- To assemble the sandwich, lightly spread butter (if using) and tonkatsu sauce on the bread.
- Arrange sliced chicken and shredded cabbage on the bread.
- Close the sandwich and slice it in half before serving.
For maximum crispness, be sure to use the panko crumbs as a coating. Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, if you are making more than one serving. Slicing the chicken after it has had time to rest for a few minutes keeps it juicy.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Katsu Sandwiches
A few side dishes that nicely complement chicken katsu sandwiches include:
- Chips or Japanese potato salad
- An assortment of pickled vegetables
- Fresh fruit
Add a cup of miso soup for a more complete meal. To drink, go for iced green tea or a Japanese soda like Ramune.
Why Chicken Katsu Sandwiches are So Popular
Because they are so tasty, chicken katsu sandwiches are a favorite for many. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, they are kid-friendly and easy to customize. In addition to the cabbage, other shredded vegetables such as carrots can be added. You can even pile your sandwich high with a variety of favorites, including pickled vegetables, if you like. Omit the veggies altogether for a simpler sandwich. Your choice.
Chicken katsu sandwiches are perfect for packed lunches or picnics, and are quick enough for weeknight dinners.
Enjoy All Your International Favorites at Home
Delicious and easy to prepare, chicken katsu sandwiches are an ideal alternative to unhealthy fast food. Kids love them and they can be dressed up or down to suit adult palates.
For authentic Japanese pantry staples, visit International Fresh Market today. While there, peruse our aisles for fresh produce and bakery favorites to bring delicious meal ideas straight to your table. We make it possible for you to explore more global recipes in the comfort of your own home.
