Chicken Schnitzel is a classic dish featuring thin, breaded chicken cutlets that are pan-fried to golden, crispy perfection. Originating from Austria and popular across Europe, schnitzel offers a delightful contrast between the crunchy coating and the tender, juicy chicken inside. It’s a versatile meal that can be served with a variety of sides, from potatoes and salads to a simple squeeze of lemon for a burst of freshness. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, chicken schnitzel is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound each breast to about 1/4-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In three separate shallow dishes, prepare the breading ingredients. Place the flour in one dish, beat the eggs and milk together in another, and mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
- Bread the Chicken: Lightly coat each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Fry the Schnitzel: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the breaded chicken breasts in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the chicken schnitzel hot, with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables.
This Chicken Schnitzel is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor, making it a delicious and comforting meal for any occasion!
