When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to a perfectly crispy chicken schnitzel. Originating in Austria, schnitzel is a beloved dish throughout Europe and beyond, featuring tender meat coated in a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust. The Classic Chicken Schnitzel brings this delicious dish to your table with just a few simple ingredients, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
The beauty of chicken schnitzel lies in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples—chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings—you can create a meal that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s easy to make, and the result is a perfectly crispy coating that contrasts wonderfully with the juicy chicken inside. The secret to a great schnitzel is the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, and this recipe delivers on both fronts.
What makes this recipe even better is the fact that you can customize it to your liking. While the classic version uses breadcrumbs for the coating, you can experiment with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or add herbs and spices to the breadcrumbs for added flavor. Schnitzel is traditionally served with a wedge of lemon, which helps balance the richness of the fried chicken with a burst of citrus.
This dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its crispy, golden exterior makes it feel fancy, while the tender chicken inside keeps it comforting and familiar. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even a side of spaetzle, schnitzel is a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.
While schnitzel is often associated with veal or pork, chicken schnitzel is a lighter option that still delivers all the flavor and texture you love. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who prefers poultry but still wants to enjoy the crispy, fried goodness of schnitzel. Plus, chicken is often more affordable and widely available than other meats, making it a great option for family meals.
Schnitzel is also a great dish for meal prep. Once cooked, the schnitzels can be stored in the fridge for a few days and reheated in the oven for a quick and delicious meal. You can even freeze them for later use, ensuring that you always have a crispy, comforting meal on hand.
Servings: 4 servings
Time:
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs, beaten
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1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
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Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
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Prepare the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound it to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
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Bread the chicken: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
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Fry the schnitzels: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
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Serve: Serve the chicken schnitzel with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top, along with your favorite sides.
Tips:
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For extra crispiness: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an even crunchier coating.
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Serving suggestions: This schnitzel pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, a simple green salad, or even a tangy potato salad.
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Make-ahead: You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before frying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, this Classic Chicken Schnitzel is the perfect comfort food. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and great for both casual and special occasions. With its satisfying crunch and tender chicken, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone.
Summary:
This Classic Chicken Schnitzel features tender chicken coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. Simple to make and utterly delicious, it’s a dish that works for any meal—weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. Serve it with lemon and your favorite sides for a truly satisfying meal.
