Katsu Chicken Bites Recipe

1. Prepare chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder and toss with chicken until evenly coated.

2. Set up breading station

Place the flour in a shallow bowl. Beat the eggs in a second shallow bowl. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl. For extra crispness, you may season the flour and panko with a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Coat chicken

Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, and finally press into panko so each piece is evenly coated. Place coated pieces on a wire rack while you heat oil.

4. Heat oil and fry

Pour oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/4 inch (or use a heavy-bottomed pan). Heat over medium-high until oil reaches 350°F (175°C) or a small breadcrumb sizzles immediately when added. Fry the chicken bites in a single layer in batches (don't overcrowd) for 2–3 minutes per side, turning once, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Adjust heat as necessary to maintain oil temperature. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer cooked bites to a paper towel-lined tray or wire rack to drain.

5. Finish

When all chicken is fried, transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced scallions and serve with lime wedges alongside the dipping sauce.

6. Combine mayonnaise and yogurt in a small bowl and whisk until smooth.

7. Whisk in Thai red curry paste, lime juice, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust: add more lime if you want brighter acidity, more honey for sweetness, or more curry paste for heat.

8. If the sauce is too thick, whisk in water 1 teaspoon at a time (up to the amount listed) until desired consistency for dipping is reached. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

9. Cover and chill for at least 10 minutes if time allows to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside the hot chicken bites.