Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry Recipe

If you’re craving a flavorful, hearty, and comforting dish that perfectly balances crispy textures with rich and savory flavors, Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry is an absolute must-try!

This dish brings the perfect combination of crispy fried chicken with a luscious, aromatic curry sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser that is sure to elevate your culinary repertoire.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry is a delightful twist on the classic Japanese comfort food, Katsu Curry. The dish features golden, crispy breaded chicken breasts or thighs, which are served with a fragrant, rich curry sauce, typically made with a base of onions, carrots, and a variety of spices.

This curry is typically accompanied by a serving of fluffy steamed rice and sometimes garnished with a side of pickles or salad to add a fresh contrast. The crispy chicken contrasts beautifully with the savory curry sauce, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Jamie Oliver’s version of this dish often emphasizes using fresh, simple ingredients, and he presents the recipe in a way that’s both accessible and full of flavor. His recipe is a great option for anyone looking to recreate this beloved Japanese dish at home with easy-to-follow steps.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Chicken Katsu

• 2 chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
• 1 egg (for the egg wash)
• 100g (about 1 cup) plain flour
• 150g (about 1 ½ cups) panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Sunflower oil (for frying)

For The Curry Sauce

• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 1-2 carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon curry powder (or Japanese curry powder for authenticity)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 400ml (1 ½ cups) vegetable stock or chicken stock
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
• Olive oil (for cooking)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Serving

• 300g (about 2 cups) steamed white rice
• Fresh herbs (optional garnish, such as coriander or spring onions)
• Pickled vegetables or a simple salad (optional)

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• A sharp knife (for chopping vegetables)
• A cutting board
• A frying pan or deep pan (for frying the chicken)
• A large saucepan (for making the curry sauce)
• A shallow dish (for flouring the chicken)
• A bowl (for whisking the egg)
• A shallow plate (for the breadcrumbs)
• A plate lined with kitchen paper (for draining excess oil)
• A ladle (for serving the curry sauce)
• A rice cooker or pot (for steaming the rice)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry?

Step 1: Prepare The Chicken

1. First, flatten the chicken breasts gently using a meat mallet or rolling pin, ensuring they cook evenly.
2. Set up a breading station: place the flour on one plate, whisk the egg in a bowl, and put the panko breadcrumbs on a third plate.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then coat it first in the flour, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it evenly with the panko breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Fry The Chicken

1. Heat a generous amount of sunflower oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
2. Fry the breaded chicken for about 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Make sure the oil is hot enough to create a crisp coating.
3. Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Make The Curry Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, and sauté them until softened and slightly caramelized.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the curry powder and cook for another minute to release the spices’ aroma.
4. Add the tomato paste and soy sauce, followed by the vegetable stock (or chicken stock), and bring it to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the vegetables to soften.
5. Blend the sauce with an immersion blender or in a stand blender until smooth. Add honey, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve The Dish

1. Slice the crispy chicken into strips or wedges and arrange it on top of a bed of freshly steamed rice.
2. Pour the smooth curry sauce over the chicken and rice.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs or spring onions, and serve with optional pickled vegetables or a side salad for a fresh contrast.

Expert Tips

• For extra crispy chicken: Double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg wash and breadcrumbs twice. This will give you a thicker, crunchier crust.
• Adjust the curry’s heat: If you prefer a spicier curry, add a small amount of chili powder or fresh chili when sautéing the garlic and ginger.
• Make ahead: The curry sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat before serving.
• Crisping the chicken: If you don’t have a deep fryer, shallow frying works just as well! Just be sure to use enough oil to submerge the chicken halfway, and don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Vegetarian variation: Replace the chicken with breaded tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the best of both crispy and creamy textures to the table. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to bring a touch of Japanese-inspired comfort food into their home.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this dish is sure to impress your family or guests. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to enjoy this delightful meal that’s as satisfying as it is tasty!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry is a crowd-pleaser that combines the crispiness of a fried chicken cutlet with the rich, flavorful Japanese curry sauce. However, this recipe is incredibly adaptable, and there are several ways to make it your own while still keeping the essence of the dish intact. Here are some fun variations:

1. Vegetarian Or Vegan Katsu Curry

   • Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with crispy breaded tofu or halloumi. For a crispy texture, slice the tofu into thick slabs, press to remove moisture, and coat it in panko breadcrumbs before frying. This will provide a similar crunch to the chicken but with a plant-based twist.
   • Vegan option: Opt for extra firm tofu or a vegetable-based patty like a chickpea or lentil patty. Coat it in panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s vegan-friendly by checking the breadcrumbs for dairy ingredients.

2. Spicy Chicken Katsu Curry

   • If you like things spicy, add a touch of chili paste or Sriracha to the curry sauce. You can also sprinkle chili flakes or sliced fresh chilies on top of the curry when serving. This variation adds a nice heat that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the curry sauce and the crunch of the chicken.

3. Chicken Katsu With Coconut Milk

   • For a creamy twist, replace part of the water or stock in the curry sauce with coconut milk. This will give the curry a rich, velvety texture with a hint of sweetness that balances well with the savory flavors of the chicken and sauce.

4. Katsu Donburi Style

   • Serve the crispy chicken cutlet on a bed of steamed rice, then pour the curry sauce over the top, making it a donburi-style meal. This adds a slightly different presentation and flavor profile to the dish, offering more rice-to-curry ratio, which some people prefer.

5. Chicken Katsu With Mango Or Pineapple

   • Add some tropical flair to the dish by incorporating mango or pineapple chunks into the curry sauce or as a topping. The sweetness of the fruit contrasts wonderfully with the rich curry sauce and crispy chicken. It can be a great variation for summer or to add some brightness to the dish.

6. Panko-Crusted Fish Katsu

   • If you’re in the mood for a seafood variation, try replacing the chicken with firm white fish like cod, haddock, or even tilapia. The light, flaky fish pairs exceptionally well with the curry sauce, and the panko breadcrumbs provide that satisfying crunch.

Each of these variations offers a unique twist on Jamie Oliver’s classic Chicken Katsu Curry, so don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite flavors!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftovers from Chicken Katsu Curry can be just as delicious the next day if stored and reheated properly. Here are some essential tips for storing leftovers:

1. Storing Chicken And Curry Sauce Separately

   • Why? The crispy chicken will lose its crunch when stored with the sauce. To preserve the texture of the chicken, it’s best to store the curry sauce and the chicken separately. This way, you can reheat the sauce and quickly crisp up the chicken again if desired.
   • How to Store: After your meal, let the chicken cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. The curry sauce can be stored in a separate airtight container. Both should be stored in the fridge and consumed within 2-3 days.

2. Freezing

   • Curry Sauce: The curry sauce freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply defrost the sauce overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stovetop.
   • Chicken: The crispy chicken can be frozen too, but the texture might not be as crisp after reheating. To freeze the chicken, place the cooled, breaded chicken cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer the chicken to a freezer bag. To reheat, bake in the oven for a few minutes to try and restore some of the crispiness.

3. Reheating

   • For the Curry: Gently reheat the curry sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from burning. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, you can add a bit of water or stock to reach the desired consistency.
   • For the Chicken: To preserve some crunch, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can pan-fry the chicken in a small amount of oil to revive its crispy texture.

What Goes Well With Chicken Katsu Curry?

Chicken Katsu Curry is rich, savory, and comforting on its own, but there are several accompaniments that can elevate the meal. Here are some excellent pairings to consider:

1. Steamed White Rice

   • The classic accompaniment to any katsu curry is a bowl of fluffy steamed white rice. It absorbs the curry sauce and balances out the rich flavors of the dish. You can also use brown rice or jasmine rice for an aromatic twist.

2. Pickles (Tsukemono)

   • Japanese pickles, such as pickled daikon or pickled ginger, provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the curry. The tangy and slightly sweet flavors cleanse the palate and add depth to the meal.

3. Miso Soup

   • A warm bowl of miso soup is a comforting side dish that complements the savory and umami-rich flavors of the curry. It also offers a lighter contrast to the heavier, fried chicken.

4. Sautéed Vegetables

   • Lightly sautéed vegetables like spinach, bok choy, or mushrooms are a great way to add some extra nutrition and color to the plate. Their subtle flavors won’t overpower the curry but will provide a balanced bite alongside the chicken.

5. Japanese-Style Salad

   • A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumber, radish, and a light sesame dressing pairs beautifully with the richness of the curry. The crisp and slightly sweet salad balances out the heaviness of the fried chicken and curry sauce.

6. Fried Egg

   • For a more indulgent touch, serve your katsu curry with a soft fried egg on top. The runny yolk adds an extra layer of richness to the dish, making it even more satisfying.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry is a versatile and delicious dish that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you opt for a vegan version, add spice, or tweak the sauce, the possibilities are endless.

Proper storage of leftovers ensures you can enjoy the dish again, even after the first round. And by pairing it with complementary sides like steamed rice, pickles, and miso soup, you’ll create a well-rounded meal that satisfies on all fronts. So, get creative and enjoy experimenting with different variations and sides to make the most of this mouthwatering dish!.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry Recipe?

The key ingredients include chicken breasts, plain flour, eggs, panko breadcrumbs, basmati rice, and a curry sauce made from onions, garlic, ginger, carrots, mild curry powder, coconut milk, and chicken stock.

How Does Jamie Oliver Prepare The Katsu Curry Sauce?

He starts by sautéing chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and carrots in oil until soft. Then he adds curry powder, followed by chicken stock and coconut milk, and simmers the mixture until thickened. It’s then blended to a smooth consistency.

What Type Of Chicken Does Jamie Oliver Use For This Dish?

He typically uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are flattened, coated in seasoned flour, dipped in beaten egg, and then covered in panko breadcrumbs before being fried until golden and crisp.

Can The Katsu Curry Sauce Be Made Ahead Of Time?

Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little water or stock if it thickens too much.

What Is The Best Way To Get Crispy Chicken For Katsu Curry?

Using panko breadcrumbs is essential. Jamie fries the breaded chicken in shallow oil until golden and crispy on both sides. Ensuring the oil is hot enough (about 180°C/350°F) before frying is key for a crunchy texture.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Version Of Chicken Katsu Curry Spicy?

Jamie’s version is mildly spiced, as he uses a mild curry powder in the sauce. You can increase the heat by using medium or hot curry powder, or adding fresh chilies or chili flakes.

What Can Be Served With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry?

It’s traditionally served with steamed basmati rice and sometimes a fresh salad or pickled vegetables. Jamie also suggests adding sliced cucumber or spring onions for freshness and crunch.

Can This Recipe Be Made Gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the plain flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Ensure your curry powder and stock are also gluten-free.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry?

From start to finish, it typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, including preparation of the sauce, frying the chicken, and cooking the rice.

Can Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Katsu Curry Be Made Vegetarian?

Yes. You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu, sweet potato slices, or aubergine. Prepare the substitute the same way-coat in breadcrumbs and fry-then serve with the same curry sauce.