Are you craving a crispy, juicy, and utterly delicious dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This recipe takes the classic schnitzel and elevates it with a flavorful twist, creating a truly unforgettable dish. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your chicken breasts by gently pounding them to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This ensures even cooking and a wonderfully crispy schnitzel. You can use a meat mallet or even a heavy pan to achieve this.
- Set up your breading station: Place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs in three separate shallow dishes. Season the flour with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Breading the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off.
- Finally, coat each chicken breast thoroughly in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Cooking the Schnitzel:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a pinch of breadcrumbs sizzles immediately.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Serving:
- Remove the cooked chicken schnitzel from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
- Serve immediately. This Himmel Chicken Schnitzel pairs perfectly with a side of lemon wedges, potato salad, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Chicken Schnitzel:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy schnitzel instead of crispy. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use good quality panko: Panko breadcrumbs are key to achieving that extra-crispy texture.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful schnitzel.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add other herbs and spices like Italian seasoning or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Variations:
- Parmesan Schnitzel: Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the panko breadcrumbs for an extra cheesy and flavorful twist.
- Herb Schnitzel: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano to the flour mixture for an aromatic touch.
- Spicy Schnitzel: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the panko breadcrumbs for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This delicious and easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness of homemade Himmel Chicken Schnitzel! Share your culinary creations with us – we'd love to see your results! Remember to use the hashtags #himmelchickenschnitzel #easyrecipes #healthyeats #deliciousdishes when you share your photos online.