Chicken schnitzel is a beloved dish known for its crispy golden crust and tender, juicy meat inside. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a quick, satisfying meal, chicken schnitzel is a fantastic choice. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make chicken schnitzel step-by-step, with tips to get that perfect crunch and flavor every time.
What Is Chicken Schnitzel?
Chicken schnitzel is a thin, breaded chicken cutlet that is pan-fried until golden and crispy. It originates from the German and Austrian schnitzel tradition, where meat is pounded thin, coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then fried. Chicken breast is the most common meat used for chicken schnitzel, making it a lean and easy-to-prepare option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
– All-purpose flour
– Eggs (beaten)
– Breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs give the crispiest texture, but regular breadcrumbs work too)
– Salt and pepper for seasoning
– Oil for frying (choose one with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil)
– Lemon wedges to serve (adds a fresh, tangy finish)
– Optional: garlic powder and fresh parsley for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Schnitzel
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half diagonally to create thinner fillets. Then, place each fillet between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet, rolling pin, or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently pound the chicken until it’s about ¼ inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender.
2. Season and Set Up Your Breading Station
Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Next, prepare three shallow bowls:
– Bowl 1: Flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper
– Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
– Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs (mix in garlic powder and extra salt/pepper if you like)
This setup makes the breading process quick and easy.
3. Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken fillet first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well.
4. Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded chicken fillets in the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature and crispiness. Fry in batches if needed.
5. Drain and Serve
Remove the schnitzels from the pan and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and keep the crust crisp. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like.
Tips for the Best Chicken Schnitzel
– Pound the chicken evenly: This ensures quick, even cooking and a tender bite.
– Use panko breadcrumbs: They create a lighter, crunchier crust compared to regular breadcrumbs.
– Don’t skip the flour step: It helps the egg adhere better, which in turn holds the breadcrumbs in place.
– Maintain oil temperature: Too low and the schnitzel will be greasy; too high and it burns before cooking through.
– Rest on a wire rack: This keeps the coating crispy instead of soggy.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Chicken schnitzel pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
– Classic potato salad or mashed potatoes
– Fresh green salads or steamed vegetables
– Sauces like mushroom gravy, garlic aioli, or a simple squeeze of lemon
You can also get creative by adding herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mix, or topping schnitzel with sautéed mushrooms or a fried egg for a hearty meal.
Chicken schnitzel is a quick, delicious dish that’s easy to master with a few simple steps. With its crispy coating and juicy interior, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Enjoy your schnitzel with a fresh squeeze of lemon and a side of your choice for a meal that’s both comforting and impressive.
Making chicken schnitzel at home is straightforward and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you can enjoy this crispy classic anytime.