Crispy Chicken Schnitzel

Crispy Chicken Schnitzel is a delicious dish that is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It consists of thinly pounded chicken breasts that are breaded and fried until golden brown and crispy. This dish is often served with fresh lemon wedges, making it bright and tasty. It is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend lunch.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice because it is not only simple but also full of flavor. The crispy exterior gives way to tender chicken on the inside, which is sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, it requires everyday ingredients that you can easily find at the grocery store. It’s a fantastic way to bring a touch of European flair to your kitchen without complicating things too much.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Schnitzel

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons salt, divided
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
2 cups breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup vegetable oil
Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions:

First, take the chicken breasts and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or a rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it is about 1/4-inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and get tender.
Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, mix together flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. In the third dish, combine breadcrumbs with paprika, garlic powder, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt.
Now it’s time to bread the chicken! Take each chicken breast and dip it into the flour mixture, shaking off any extra flour. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken schnitzels to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help drain any excess oil and keep them crispy.
Serve the crispy chicken schnitzels hot, with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon juice on top adds a refreshing touch!

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Schnitzel

Crispy Chicken Schnitzel is best served immediately. Pair it with a simple side salad, mashed potatoes, or even some cooked vegetables. Drenching it with fresh lemon juice will enhance the flavors and make it even tastier!

How to Store Crispy Chicken Schnitzel

If you have leftover schnitzel, let it cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to keep the breading crispy.

Tips to Make Crispy Chicken Schnitzel

Make sure to pound the chicken evenly so it cooks properly.
Keep the oil hot before adding the chicken to avoid soggy schnitzel.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
Use homemade breadcrumbs for extra crunch!

Variation

For a different flavor, you can add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs. You can also try using turkey instead of chicken for a lighter option.

FAQs

Can I bake the schnitzel instead of frying it? Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Just spray them lightly with oil before baking.
What can I serve with chicken schnitzel? It goes well with mashed potatoes, salad, or even pasta. A side of sautéed vegetables also complements it nicely.
Can I freeze leftover schnitzel? Yes, you can freeze it. Make sure it’s cooled completely, wrap it well, and store it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.