Chicken Schnitzel

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Schnitzel is a crispy, golden-brown delight that’s perfectly breaded and fried to perfection. The tender chicken cutlets stay moist on the inside, while the crunchy crust adds an irresistible texture. In just 20 minutes, you can make this satisfying dish that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or any time you want something quick, delicious, and comforting. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and you’ve got a delightful meal!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 chicken cutlets

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Set Up the Breading Station:

1. Add flour to a shallow bowl or rimmed plate.

2. In another shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and Dijon mustard.

3. In a third shallow bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

Bread the Chicken:

1. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, coating evenly.

2. Dip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.

Fry the Chicken:

1. Add about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd.

3. Cook until the first side is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Remove the schnitzels and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.

Serve:

1. Serve the schnitzels hot with lemon wedges for spritzing and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and fresh dill.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Calories: 345 per serving

Variations

• Add spice: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.

• Use chicken breasts: If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally to create cutlets.

• Bake instead of frying: To make this dish lighter, you can bake the breaded cutlets at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover schnitzels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the crispiness, or place in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but Panko will give the schnitzel a lighter, crispier texture.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

While schnitzel is best served fresh and crispy, you can bread the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to an hour before frying.

3. Can I freeze the schnitzel?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken cutlets before frying. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen, but add an extra minute to the cooking time.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour and Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs available, or you can use ground almonds or rice flour.

5. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of cutlets?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well for schnitzel and provide a juicier result.

6. What can I serve with Chicken Schnitzel?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a light coleslaw.

7. Can I make a sauce for the schnitzel?

A simple sauce like a tangy mustard sauce or creamy garlic sauce pairs perfectly with schnitzel. You could also serve it with a squeeze of lemon for a light, zesty finish.

8. How do I prevent the schnitzel from getting soggy?

To keep the schnitzel crispy, be sure to let it rest on a wire rack after frying. This allows excess oil to drain and keeps the crust crispy.

9. Can I use a deep fryer instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can use a deep fryer for a more even, crispier result. Just make sure the oil is heated to the correct temperature (350°F) before frying.

10. How do I know when the schnitzel is done?

The schnitzel is done when it’s golden brown on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

This Chicken Schnitzel is a quick, easy, and utterly delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy, golden-brown coating pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy chicken inside, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Whether served with a side of fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or your favorite sides, this schnitzel is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe!

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