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Crispy Lemon Chicken Schnitzel Recipe

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4.3 from 42 reviews

Crispy and flavorful Chicken Schnitzel made with tender, thinly pounded chicken breasts, coated in a seasoned flour, egg, and panko bread crumb mixture, then pan-fried to golden perfection. This easy 30-minute recipe serves 8 and is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large breasts)

Coating

  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups panko crumbs

Cooking

  • 4 Tablespoons olive oil or cooking oil
  • flake salt, to sprinkle

Serving

  • lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare chicken: Carefully butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing through the middle to create two thinner pieces each. Place one piece at a time inside a zip-top bag and pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut each cutlet in half to yield 8 pieces total.
  2. Dip chicken: In a shallow plate or bowl, combine the flour, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and ground black pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In a third plate or bowl, place the panko crumbs. Dip each chicken piece first in the seasoned flour, then in the egg wash, and lastly coat thoroughly with panko crumbs. Set aside on a plate.
  3. Cook chicken: Heat a large cast iron or non-stick pan over medium heat and add 4 tablespoons of olive oil or cooking oil. Once the oil shimmers and is hot, add 4 cutlets to the pan. Fry for 5 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is golden, crispy, and cooked through. Remove and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with flake salt while still hot.
  4. Serve: Before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the schnitzels for a bright, tangy finish. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • You can substitute olive oil with vegetable or canola oil for frying.
  • Pounding the chicken thin ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
  • Serve schnitzel with a side salad, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and panko crumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: German