Recipes AirfryerAir Fryer Pork Katsu (Tonkatsu)
Air fryer pork katsu gives you that signature Japanese tonkatsu crunch — a shatteringly crisp panko crust over juicy pork — with a fraction of the oil of deep-frying. Pounding the chops thin means they cook fast and stay tender.
Slice and serve over rice with shredded cabbage and tonkatsu sauce, or tuck into a katsu sando. It's Japanese comfort food made easy.
Ingredients
Instructions
Pound thin
Cover the pork chops with plastic wrap and pound to about ½-inch thick. Season with salt and white pepper.
Bread
Mix the panko with the garlic and onion powder. Dredge each chop in flour, then egg, then press into the seasoned panko to coat.
Air fry
Spray both sides generously with oil and air fry at 360°F for about 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until deep golden and 145°F inside. Rest 5 minutes, then slice.
- Spray the panko well on both sides — dry breadcrumbs stay pale.
- Pounding the pork thin is key to even, quick cooking.
- Rest before slicing so it stays juicy; slice across the grain.
Frequently asked
How long does pork katsu take in the air fryer?
About 12 minutes at 360°F for ½-inch chops, flipping once, until golden and 145°F inside.
Can I make chicken katsu the same way?
Yes — use pounded chicken breast and cook to 165°F; everything else stays the same.
What is tonkatsu sauce?
A thick, sweet-savory Japanese sauce (like a fruity Worcestershire). Serve it drizzled over the sliced katsu.
