Name: Chicken Katsu Sandwich Sliders
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 4 slider buns; 2 boneless chicken thighs; Salt & pepper, to taste; ½ cup flour; 1 egg, for egg wash; 1 cup Panko crumbs; Neutral oil, for frying; Katsu sauce, for serving; 2 cups thinly sliced cabbage; 3 tbsp Japanese mayo; ¼ tsp pepper; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp lemon juice

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Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—these Chicken Katsu Sandwich Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Imagine perfectly golden, crunchy chicken cutlets nestled in soft, pillowy slider buns, topped with a tangy, slightly sweet tonkatsu sauce and a refreshing slaw. Every bite is a delicious combination of crispy, creamy, and zesty goodness!

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These little sliders are perfect for game nights, parties, or just when you’re craving a fun twist on a classic sandwich. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll be on repeat in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Katsu Sandwich Sliders

Ultra-Crispy Chicken: The panko breading creates a perfect crunch that stays crispy even with the sauce.

Bold Flavors: A balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes every bite irresistible.

Great for Any Occasion: Perfect as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or even a fun dinner idea.

Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a straightforward process make this recipe beginner-friendly.

Customizable: Switch up the toppings or add a spicy kick for your own twist!

Ingredients in Chicken Katsu Sandwich Sliders

Chicken Breasts: Tender, juicy, and the perfect size when cut for sliders.

Panko Breadcrumbs: The key to that signature crispy coating.

Flour: Helps the breading stick and gives the chicken a light, crunchy exterior.

Eggs: Act as the binder to hold the breadcrumbs in place.

Tonkatsu Sauce: A slightly sweet, tangy, and savory Japanese-style barbecue sauce.

Slider Buns: Soft and fluffy, the perfect vehicle for the crispy chicken.

Cabbage Slaw: A fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich katsu chicken.

Japanese Mayo (Kewpie): Creamy and slightly tangy, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Oil for Frying: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for the crispiest results.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Slice chicken breasts into slider-sized pieces. Lightly season with salt and pepper.

Set Up the Breading Station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third.

Bread the Chicken: Dredge each piece in flour, dip in the egg, and coat thoroughly with panko. Press gently to adhere.

Fry Until Golden: Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the slider buns in a dry pan for extra flavor and texture.

Assemble the Sliders: Spread Japanese mayo on the bottom bun, place a piece of crispy chicken on top, drizzle with tonkatsu sauce, and add a handful of cabbage slaw. Top with the other bun.

Serve and Enjoy: Secure with a toothpick if needed, and serve immediately!

How to Serve Chicken Katsu Sandwich Sliders

With Fries: Serve with crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a classic pairing.

Pickles on the Side: Japanese-style pickles or even classic dill pickles add a tangy crunch.

Extra Sauce: Offer a side of tonkatsu sauce or spicy mayo for dipping.

Pair with a Cold Drink: A light beer, iced green tea, or even a citrusy soda complements the flavors.

Additional Tips

Double-Breading for Extra Crunch: For an ultra-crispy texture, dip the chicken in egg and panko twice.

Make-Ahead Option: Fry the chicken in advance and reheat in the oven before assembling.

Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili flakes for heat lovers.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and slider buns.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake instead of fry the chicken?
A1: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q2: Can I air-fry the chicken?
A2: Absolutely! Air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping once.

Q3: What if I can’t find tonkatsu sauce?
A3: You can make a quick version by mixing ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and a bit of honey.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store the fried chicken separately from the buns and assemble fresh when serving.

Q5: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
A5: Yes! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.

Q6: What’s the best way to reheat katsu?
A6: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to keep it crispy.

Q7: Can I add cheese?
A7: Sure! A slice of mild cheese like mozzarella or provolone melts beautifully over the crispy chicken.

Q8: What other toppings can I add?
A8: Try sliced avocado, pickled onions, or a fried egg for a fun twist!

Q9: Can I make these sliders spicy?
A9: Yes! Add spicy mayo, chili oil, or jalapeño slices for heat.

Q10: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A10: Use an air fryer, whole wheat buns, and a lighter mayo option.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Katsu Sandwich Sliders are an absolute hit—crispy, juicy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re serving them at a party or making them for a fun family dinner, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. Give them a try, and let me know how you customize yours!