Chicken schnitzel is a popular dish that originated in Austria and Germany. It consists of a thin, breaded, and fried chicken cutlet that is often served with a lemon wedge and a side of tartar sauce. The crispy exterior and tender interior of chicken schnitzel make it a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to about 1/4 inch thickness
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Tartar sauce for serving
Instructions:
- Pound the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This will help them cook evenly and prevent them from drying out.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Dredge in flour: Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in egg: Dip the chicken breasts in the beaten eggs.
- Coat in breadcrumbs: Coat the chicken breasts in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing the breadcrumbs firmly into the chicken.
- Fry the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken schnitzel can be served with a variety of side dishes, including:
- Potato salad: A creamy potato salad is a classic accompaniment to chicken schnitzel.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes, are a healthy and flavorful side dish.
- Pasta: A simple pasta dish, such as spaghetti with marinara sauce, is a delicious way to enjoy chicken schnitzel.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Schnitzel:
- Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are larger and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, making them ideal for chicken schnitzel.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you overcrowd the pan, the chicken will not cook evenly and may become soggy.
- Let the chicken rest: After frying the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Experiment with different toppings: Chicken schnitzel can be topped with a variety of different sauces and toppings, such as lemon butter, mushroom gravy, or grated Parmesan cheese.
Chicken schnitzel is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. By following these tips, you can create a crispy and flavorful meal that is sure to please your family and friends.
