Crispy Air Fryer Tonkatsu Recipe

If you enjoy the delicious flavors of tonkatsu but want a healthier alternative, this air fryer version is for you! This air fryer tonkatsu is crispy, juicy, and just as delicious as the traditional fried tonkatsu without the extra guilt. 

‘Tonkatsu’ is a popular Japanese dish that translates as pork cutlet. It’s made of panko-breaded pork loin that’s deep-fried to golden brown perfection. It’s usually served with rice and tonkatsu sauce on the side or as a rice bowl like my Pork Katsudon!

Why you’ll love this recipe

Not only is this air fryer version healthier, but it also requires less cleanup! I absolutely LOVE deep-fried foods but dread the greasy mess and clean up afterwards so using an air fryer for recipes like this is a game changer. 

While pork loin is the traditional cut of meat used for this recipe, I prefer using pork butt or pork shoulder due to its higher fat content. Pork butt typically has more marbling throughout the meat which ensures the tonkatsu comes out undeniably juicy and flavorful every time! Now, couple the juicy pork with the light and crispy exterior and you’ve got yourself a delicious, hearty meal. 

Aside from pork, you can also make ‘katsu’ with essentially anything! For example, my Easy Chicken Katsu recipe uses chicken thighs and if you’re craving a complete vegetarian meal, you can make Eggplant Katsu or even Zucchini Katsu! The possibilities of katsu are truly endless, which makes it incredibly versatile. And best of all, you can prepare them all in an air fryer!

If you’re tired of the messy cleanup after deep frying or you’re looking for a guilt-free delicious tonkatsu recipe, give this one a try! 🙂

Air Fryer Tonkatsu Ingredients & Substitutions

Pork Butt/Shoulder: I prefer using pork butt or shoulder for its ideal balance of fat and meat to ensure the tonkatsu turns out juicy and flavorful. For a leaner option, you can also use pork loin!

Salt: Added to enhance the natural flavors of the pork and seasoning throughout the breading process. 

All-purpose flour: Used in two applications in this recipe. First, it creates a light coating on the pork that helps the egg wash adhere better.  Second, it’s used to thicken the wet egg batter for the panko breadcrumbs to adhere. For gluten-free substitutes, you can use rice flour, cornstarch, or potato starch. 

Onion powder: Added to the all-purpose flour coating to add a flavor boost!

Eggs: Helps to create the wet better which binds the flour dredge and panko breadcrumbs together

Water: Added to adjust the batter to the right consistency for coating. 

Panko bread crumbs: Provides the light and crispy outer layer that’s of tonkatsu. To make your panko bread crumbs at home, you’ll need stale white bread or milk bread. Cut off the crust then place the bread into a food processor. Blend into coarse flakes then spread onto a baking sheet. Bake at 300F to dry out the crumbs, about 5 minutes – be sure not to brown the crumbs. Remove from heat and allow to cool before using. 

Tonkatsu Sauce Ingredients & Substitutions

Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness as the base of the sauce. 

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds complexity, umami, and tangy depth to the sauce. 

Oyster Sauce: Deepens the sauce and umaminess with its savory and slightly sweet flavors. 

Sugar: Added to help balance the acidity and savoriness. 

When preparing the tonkatsu sauce, be sure to taste and adjust as you go! For example, if you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more sugar. 

How to Prepare Air Fryer Tonkatsu

Step 1: Pound and season the pork

Place the pork shoulder in between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or meat mallet, pound the pork into 1/4 inch. Next, season with salt on both sides.

Step 2: Prepare the dredge

For the dredge, combine 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder in a shallow plate or bowl. Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Mix the egg batter

For the egg batter, crack the eggs into a shallow plate or bowl. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, and water. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Combine breading ingredients

For the breading, combine panko breadcrumbs and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a shallow plate or bowl. Mix together until combined.

Step 5: Preheat the air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 360F or 182C.

Step 6: Coat the pork

Coat the pounded pork shoulder in the dredge, then transfer into the egg batter, and finally into the breading. Make sure the pork is coated on all sides at each stage.

Step 7: Arrange in air fryer and spray

Arrange the pork in the air fryer basket or tray in one layer, making sure there’s ample space in between. To make the katsu extra crispy, spray generously with cooking oil spray on both sides.

Step 8: Air fry the pork

Air fry for 25 to 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145F or 63C. Be sure to flip halfway and spray both sides with cooking oil spray.

Step 9: Prepare tonkatsu sauce

Remove from the air fryer and transfer to a cutting board. While the pork is resting and slightly cooling, prepare the tonkatsu sauce. In a small mixing bowl, mix together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Stir to combine well.

Step 10: Serve and enjoy

Slice the pork into 1-inch thick pieces or your desired thickness. Serve with a side of freshly cooked rice, shredded cabbage, and tonkatsu sauce.

Preparation Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Tonkatsu

• The key to perfectly cooked tonkatsu starts with the pork! For example, choose the right cut of meat, especially one that you prefer eating. In my case, I enjoy juicy and tender pork katsu, so I always opt for a fattier cut like pork butt or pork shoulder.
  
• To ensure the pork is evenly cooked, it’s important to pound it to an even thickness of about ¼ inch. If you prefer a thinner tonkatsu, pound it out to your desired thickness.

• For the crispiest air-fried tonkatsu, you’ll need to spray both sides of the pork generously with cooking oil spray when adding it to the air fryer and flipping it halfway. 

• When arranging the pork in the air fryer basket or tray, be sure there is ample space on all sides so the pork can cook evenly. You never want it to be overlapping! If needed, work in batches and keep the air-fried tonkatsu warm in the oven while the rest is cooking up. 

• After removing the tonkatsu from the air fryer, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensure it stays juicy. 

• In my opinion, making the tonkatsu sauce at home tastes better than the pre-made bottles however, they do save time! I recommend the Bull-Dog brand.
  
• While the tonkatsu sauce is traditionally served with katsu, feel free to experiment with other flavors and sauces. For example, a sweet and tangy homemade honey mustard or creamy spicy mayo would also pair deliciously with this crispy air fryer tonkatsu! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my air fryer tonkatsu tough?

If your tonkatsu has turned out tough after cooking in the air fryer, it usually means that it’s overcooked. The best way to check if the tonkatsu is ready is by using a meat thermometer and sticking it in the center of the tonkatsu. If the internal temperature reads 145F or 63C, it’s ready. Another reason could be that the tonkatsu did not rest before slicing after cooking. This is an important step because this resting period will allow the juices to redistribute into the meat. 

What kind of pork is best for tonkatsu?

If you want to keep it traditional, pork loin is the cut of choice for tonkatsu. However, I find that it tends to overcook easily and isn’t as juicy as other cuts. My preferred cut of pork for tonkatsu is pork should or pork butt. In my opinion, it has the perfect meat-to-fat ratio which yields juicy tender tonkatsu. Ultimately, the choice between the different cuts of meat depends on preference!

Can I make tonkatsu in advance?

Like most fried foods, tonkatsu is best enjoyed hot and fresh however, you can certainly make it in advance. After air frying, keep it covered and stored in the fridge if you don’t plan on consuming it within 2 hours. To reheat, simply pop it into the air fryer at 360F or 182C and cook for 3 minutes or until crispy and warmed through. I don’t recommend reheating it in the microwave as it will turn soggy. 

Looking for more easy and delicious Japanese-inspired recipes?

Here are my five Japanese recipes for you to explore:

1. Japanese Beef Rice Bowl Recipe (Gyudon) – This Japanese-style beef rice bowl or ‘gyudon‘ is a quick, hearty, and satisfying meal that comes together in just 15 minutes. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that is made of thinly sliced beef and aromatics cooked in a sweet and savory sauce and served over a bowl of steaming rice.
2. Japanese Chicken Rice Bowl – Sometimes a good rice bowl is all you need to cheer you up or get you through the day. This ‘oyakodon‘, or Japanese-style chicken and egg rice bowl, does the trick for me every time! It’s comforting, delicious, and packed with so much flavor. I love mixing the rice, chicken, and egg with the dashi-based sauce.
3. Shiozake – or Japanese Salted Salmon, is a salt-cured salmon recipe in Japanese cooking. It’s commonly eaten for breakfast however, I find that this dish is also perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner!
4. Spam Onigirazu – If you’re not familiar with onigirazu, it is a variation of onigiri or Japanese rice balls. It’s made with various fillings and this kimchi, egg, and spam version is a favorite lunch or quick meal!
5. Pan Seared Miso Salmon – If you want to elevate your weeknight meal, I highly recommend giving this recipe a try. The flavors of the miso and mushroom glaze pair wonderfully with the tender and juicy salmon filet.