Name: Chicken Katsu Meal Prep
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488100H7M19S
Total time: PT-488100H7M19S
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts; 4 tbsp plain flour; 1 egg; 150 g panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp groundnut oil, for frying; 2 tbsp katsu paste; 120 ml light coconut milk; 2 tbsp tahini; 1 tsp honey; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp chili powder; Squeeze of lime; 125 g cooked basmati rice per serving; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1–2 carrots, cut into matchsticks; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Spring onions, for garnish

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Chicken katsu meal prep is a delicious, balanced, and convenient way to enjoy a Japanese-inspired favorite throughout the week. Crispy panko-coated chicken fillets are paired with fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy katsu curry sauce for a flavorful and satisfying meal that reheats beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This meal prep combines comfort and convenience without sacrificing flavor. The chicken stays crispy after baking, the sauce is creamy with just the right amount of spice, and the fresh vegetables add crunch and balance. Perfect for busy weekdays, this recipe makes four generous servings that can be stored and enjoyed later.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crispy Chicken
2 large chicken breasts
4 tbsp plain flour
1 egg
150 g panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp groundnut oil, for frying

For the Katsu Curry Sauce
2 tbsp katsu paste
120 ml light coconut milk
2 tbsp tahini
1 tsp honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp chili powder
Squeeze of lime

To Serve
125 g cooked basmati rice per serving
1 cucumber, sliced
1–2 carrots, cut into matchsticks
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Spring onions, for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 180°C (365°F).
Prepare the chicken: Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing in half horizontally to make four thin fillets.
Place flour, beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs into separate dishes. Season the flour and breadcrumbs lightly with salt and pepper.
Coat each piece of chicken in flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumbs until well coated.
Heat 1 tbsp groundnut oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry 2 fillets for about 3 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a baking tray. Repeat with remaining chicken.
Bake all fillets in the oven for 15–20 minutes, until cooked through.
Make the katsu sauce: In a bowl or jug, whisk together katsu paste, coconut milk, tahini, honey, soy sauce, paprika, chili powder, and lime juice until smooth.
Assemble the meal prep: Divide rice into four containers. Slice chicken and place on top. Add cucumber and carrot sticks. Drizzle with katsu sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, frying and baking the chicken takes 25–30 minutes, and assembling adds another 5 minutes. Total time is around 50–55 minutes.

Variations

Swap chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein.
Add steamed broccoli, green beans, or edamame for extra vegetables.
Use wholegrain or jasmine rice for variety.
Spice it up by increasing chili powder or adding sriracha to the sauce.
Make it lighter by air frying the chicken instead of pan-frying and baking.

Storage/Reheating

Store meal prep portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave until warmed through, ideally keeping sauce separate and adding just before serving to maintain crispiness. For freezing, store chicken and rice separately from vegetables and sauce for best texture.

FAQs

Can I make the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, cook and refrigerate the chicken. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep it crispy.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

You can, but panko gives the crispiest texture.

Is the katsu curry sauce spicy?

It’s mildly spiced, but you can adjust the chili powder to your preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free flour, soy sauce, and panko breadcrumbs.

Can I air fry the chicken instead of frying and baking?

Yes, air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I keep the chicken crispy in meal prep containers?

Store the sauce separately and drizzle just before eating.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs are juicier and work very well. Adjust cooking time as needed.

What can I substitute for tahini in the sauce?

You can use peanut butter, almond butter, or omit it for a lighter sauce.

Can I double this recipe for more servings?

Yes, simply scale up ingredients while cooking in batches.

What other sides go well with this meal?

Pickled vegetables, miso soup, or a side salad make excellent additions.

Conclusion

Chicken katsu meal prep is a flavorful, filling, and practical way to bring a Japanese-inspired dish to your weekly menu. With crispy breaded chicken, creamy curry sauce, and fresh vegetables, it’s a balanced meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Make it ahead, store it easily, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal any day of the week.

Maggie