Step 1

Lightly pound the chicken thighs 1/2 inch thick and season with salt. Put the flour, eggs and panko in 3 separate pie plates and season each one lightly with salt. Dredge 1 piece of chicken in the flour, tapping off the excess. Dip in the egg, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat the chicken with the panko, pressing to help it adhere. Transfer the chicken to a wax paper–lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining chicken.

Step 2

Divide the oil between 2 large skillets and heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and fry over moderately high heat, turning once, until golden and crispy, 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels. Serve the chicken with tonkatsu sauce, mustard and steamed rice.