This Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is a delightful dish that captures the spirit of Hawaiian cuisine with its crispy chicken and flavorful Japanese curry. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe promises to bring joy to your table. The harmony of textures and tastes makes it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of crispy chicken and savory curry creates a warm and satisfying dish.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, ensuring everyone leaves happy.
• Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for frying the chicken evenly and achieving that crispy texture you crave.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for better cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing your ingredients, especially when breading the chicken.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Curry

• 1/4 cup neutral oil
• 2 large onions (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp ginger (minced)
• 2 Fuji apples (grated)
• 2 carrots (chopped)
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 block Japanese curry mix

For the Chicken

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (pounded to ½-inch thickness)

To Serve

• Cooked rice
• Katsu sauce (homemade or store-bought)

How to Make Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Curry Base

1. In a large skillet, heat the neutral oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Mix in the grated Fuji apples and chopped carrots; sauté for another 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Stock and Curry Mix

1. Pour in the chicken stock and soy sauce; bring it to a simmer.
2. Break apart the Japanese curry mix block as you add it into the pot. Stir well until fully dissolved.
3. Allow the curry to simmer gently while you prepare the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Thighs

1. Set up three bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Dredge each pounded chicken thigh in flour first, then dip in egg, followed by coating it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. In another large skillet, heat enough oil to cover the bottom over medium-high heat.
2. Once hot, carefully place each coated chicken thigh into the skillet. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer cooked thighs onto paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

1. Plate cooked rice as a base on each serving plate.
2. Top with generous portions of curry sauce followed by sliced crispy chicken.
3. Drizzle katsu sauce over the top before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry! This dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

How to Serve Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

This Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some great ways to present this dish for a delightful meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve the curry over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic pairing. The rice absorbs the rich curry sauce beautifully, creating a comforting dish.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving for a fresh crunch and vibrant color. This adds a lovely contrast to the warm curry.

Accompanied by Pickled Vegetables

• Include Japanese pickles, such as tsukemono, on the side. Their tangy flavor complements the savory chicken katsu and enhances the overall meal experience.

With a Side Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the hearty curry. This adds a light element to your plate.

Served in Bowls

• For a cozy presentation, serve individual portions in bowls. Top with katsu sauce for added flavor and elevate the dining experience.

How to Perfect Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

To achieve an authentic and flavorful Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken make a big difference in flavor and texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, add chili powder or fresh chilies. Tailor it to your taste for the perfect kick.
• Pound Chicken Evenly: Ensure that your chicken thighs are pounded uniformly. This helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
• Fry at the Right Temperature: Maintain oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for crispy katsu without greasy results.
• Let It Rest: After frying, let the katsu rest on paper towels briefly before serving. This keeps them crispy longer.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding avocado slices or sesame seeds as toppings for additional flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

Pairing your Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options:

1. Japanese Pickles
   These tangy pickles provide a refreshing contrast to the savory curry, enhancing each bite.

2. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth to your meal while offering additional umami flavors that complement the curry.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli brings a crunchy texture and vibrant color, balancing out the richness of the katsu curry.

4. Cabbage Slaw
   A tangy cabbage slaw dressed with rice vinegar offers crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the dish.

5. Edamame
   These protein-packed soybeans are easy to prepare and add a healthy touch alongside your hearty curry.

6. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness and contrast, making them an enjoyable addition to your plate.

7. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn provides sweetness and is great for soaking up any leftover curry sauce on your plate.

8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad made with tropical fruits like pineapple or mango can add freshness and cleanse your palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect chicken thickness: Not pounding the chicken thighs to ½-inch thickness can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure uniformity for the best texture.
• Skipping the resting time: After frying, skipping the resting period can cause soggy katsu. Allow it to rest on a wire rack for crispiness.
• Not using enough oil: Using too little oil can result in dry chicken. Ensure you have enough heated oil for a full fry.
• Overcooking the curry: Cooking the curry too long can lead to bitterness. Follow timing closely for optimal flavor balance.
• Ignoring seasoning: Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning may affect the dish’s final flavor. Always taste before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place curry in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry?

Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is a delicious blend of crispy fried chicken served with a rich Japanese curry sauce and rice. It’s a comforting dish inspired by Hawaiian flavors.

How can I customize my Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry?

You can customize your Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry by adding vegetables like peas or bell peppers, or by adjusting the spice level of the curry mix to suit your taste.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Swap all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to create a gluten-free version of Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry.

What side dishes pair well with Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry?

Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed broccoli, salad, or even pickled vegetables for added crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry is not just comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences and enjoy it any day of the week. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Hawaii Chicken Katsu Curry, a delightful fusion dish that features crispy, panko-crusted chicken served with a rich and savory Japanese curry sauce. This recipe captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its satisfying combination of textures and tastes, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, you can serve it over rice or alongside your favorite sides, creating a meal that’s both comforting and delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup neutral oil
• 2 large onions (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp ginger (minced)
• 2 Fuji apples (grated)
• 2 carrots (chopped)
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 1 block Japanese curry mix
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Cooked rice
• Katsu sauce (homemade or store-bought)

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Instructions

1. 1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
2. 2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for another minute. Stir in grated apples and chopped carrots; sauté for 5 minutes.
3. 3. Pour in chicken stock and soy sauce, then add Japanese curry mix. Simmer gently.
4. 4. Set up three bowls for breading: flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken thigh in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko.
5. 5. In another skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
6. 6. Serve over cooked rice, topped with curry sauce and katsu sauce.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Hawaiian/Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For extra crunch, let the fried chicken rest on paper towels before serving. Customize the spice level by adding chili powder to the curry mix.