Chicken Schnitzel is a classic dish featuring tender, thinly pounded chicken breasts coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. It’s quick, easy, and always a family favorite. This dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or for when you’re craving something crunchy and delicious. Serve it with a side of lemon wedges for a burst of freshness.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (Panko or traditional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or more, for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, and one with breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix the breadcrumbs and seasonings until well combined.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the chicken into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated.
- Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a breadcrumb sizzles when dropped in.
- Add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Chicken Schnitzel hot with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Pounding the Chicken: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat.
- Breadcrumb Choice: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier crust, while traditional breadcrumbs give a more classic texture. Choose based on your preference.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to prevent the coating from absorbing too much oil. If the oil is too cool, the schnitzel will be greasy.
- Keeping Schnitzel Warm: If cooking in batches, keep the cooked schnitzel warm in a low oven (around 200°F/95°C) while frying the rest.
Variations
- Herb-Crusted Schnitzel: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Cheese-Stuffed Schnitzel: Place a slice of cheese, such as Swiss or mozzarella, between two thin chicken cutlets before breading for a cheesy surprise.
- Spicy Schnitzel: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Oven-Baked Schnitzel: For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Chicken Schnitzel Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Schnitzel?
Store leftover schnitzel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to maintain the crispiness.
3. Can I Freeze Chicken Schnitzel?
Yes, you can freeze breaded but uncooked schnitzel. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What Sides Go Well with Chicken Schnitzel?
Chicken Schnitzel pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, potato salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. It’s also delicious served with a side of spaetzle or egg noodles.
Chicken Schnitzel is a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The crispy coating and juicy chicken make it a favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you serve it with a squeeze of lemon, a dollop of mustard, or alongside your favorite side dishes, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors of homemade Chicken Schnitzel!
