Chicken Schnitzel is a classic dish that features thin, breaded, and fried chicken cutlets. It’s simple, crispy, and delicious—perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for a burst of freshness. Follow this step-by-step guide to make perfectly crispy Chicken Schnitzel at home.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken cutlets (or 2 chicken breasts cut in half lengthways to make 4 cutlets)
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, to serve
- Chopped fresh parsley or dill, to serve (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
- If using chicken breasts, place each breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness, about ¼ inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the chicken cutlets with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub the Dijon mustard evenly over each cutlet.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In a shallow bowl or plate, place the all-purpose flour.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
- In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with a little salt and pepper for extra seasoning.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken Cutlets
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the floured cutlet into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Press the cutlet into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s fully coated and the breadcrumbs adhere well. Repeat with the remaining cutlets.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken Schnitzel
- In a large skillet, heat about ¼ inch of oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken cutlets into the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Fry the cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the cooked schnitzels to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve the Chicken Schnitzel
- Serve the Chicken Schnitzel hot, garnished with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
- Optional: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or dill for a burst of color and flavor.
- Pair with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.
Cook’s Notes
- Pounding the Chicken: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks quickly and evenly, preventing it from drying out.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. You can find them in most grocery stores or substitute with regular breadcrumbs if needed.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to ensure a crispy exterior. Test by dropping a breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
Variations
Herbed Chicken Schnitzel
Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary into the panko breadcrumbs for an herby twist.
Parmesan Chicken Schnitzel
Add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the panko breadcrumbs for a cheesy, savory flavor.
Spicy Chicken Schnitzel
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the flour or breadcrumbs for a little heat.
Gluten-Free Chicken Schnitzel
Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Chicken Schnitzel ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken cutlets ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before frying. This can help the breading adhere better and save time when cooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Chicken Schnitzel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Schnitzel?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken cutlets. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What can I serve with Chicken Schnitzel?
Chicken Schnitzel pairs well with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, potato salad, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
5. Can I bake Chicken Schnitzel instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake Chicken Schnitzel. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded cutlets on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Chicken Schnitzel is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. With its crispy golden coating and tender, juicy chicken inside, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with lemon wedges and your favorite sides for a satisfying meal. Enjoy making and sharing this classic dish!
