Quick Air Fryer Chicken Schnitzel Recipe
Chicken schnitzel is a classic dish that takes tender chicken breasts and transforms them into golden-brown cutlets that are irresistibly crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Pair it with roast potatoes or mashed potatoes, alongside some steamed vegetables and you’re onto a winner the whole family will enjoy. Whether you're looking to impress your guests at a dinner party or simply want to indulge in a quick and easy meal at home, this chicken schnitzel recipe will be a surefire hit!
What is Chicken Schnitzel?
It’s no secret that chicken schnitzel is a delicious and popular dish. It is a breaded and fried chicken cutlet that is loved by people all around the world. The crispy and golden exterior, combined with the juicy and tender chicken inside, makes it a staple in kitchens around the world.
Where Did Chicken Schnitzel Come From?
Chicken schnitzel has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. It is believed to have been brought to Austria by Italian immigrants who introduced the concept of breading and frying meat. Originally, the dish was made with veal, but over time, chicken became a more affordable and widely available alternative. Today, chicken schnitzel has become a staple in Austrian cuisine and has gained popularity in many other countries as well.
What to Serve with Chicken Schnitzel?
Chicken schnitzel is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. As a tip, consider flavours and textures that complement the crispy and tender chicken.
Some classic options include a side of mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes for a creamy and hearty element to the dish. A fresh and vibrant salad, such as a Greek salad or a mixed green salad, can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the schnitzel.
Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or carrots, can also be a great choice to add some colour and nutritional value to the meal. For a more indulgent option, serving chicken schnitzel with a side of buttered noodles or spaetzle can create a delicious and satisfying combination.
Chicken schnitzel is also often served with a side of lemon wedges, which can be squeezed over the schnitzel to add a tangy and refreshing flavour, or a variety of sauces or gravies, or used as a filling in sandwiches or wraps. Chicken schnitzel also forms the basis of the timeless pub classic, the Chicken Parmigiana.
Air Fryer Chicken Schnitzel Recipe
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 24 minutes
Serves: 4
Tools & Cookware Required
- Baccarat The Healthy Fry 9L Air Fryer (cook times may vary using a different air fryer)
- Baking paper
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Sifter
- Plates
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- 4 x 180g chicken fillets, trimmed
- 2 Cups panko crumbs
- ¼ cup (10g) finely grated parmesan
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 Tbsp finely chopped parsley
- 1 Egg
- ¼ Cup milk
- ¼ Cup plain flour
- 2 Tsp sea salt
- ½ Tsp cracked black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Place the chicken between two sheets of baking paper and pound with a rolling pin to flatten.
- Place the panko, parmesan, zest and parsley in a medium bowl and mix well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and milk. Place the flour, salt and pepper in a third shallow bowl and set aside.
- Toss the chicken one at a time through the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess. Dip in the egg mixture ensuring both sides are coated then press into the panko. Repeat with the remaining chicken then transfer to a plate in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Select the Preheat icon on the Baccarat The Healthy Fry 9L Air Fryer and press start. Once the 3 minute preheating setting has completed, open the drawer and spray the cavity liberally with cooking oil. Place two schnitzels onto the tray ensuring they're evenly spaced and not touching and spray with a light coating of oil. Close the drawer, select the Chicken icon (200°C) and use the +/- icon to decrease the default cooking time to 12 minutes and press start.
- Transfer the cooked schnitzels to a cooling rack and repeat with the remaining schnitzels. Serve with your favourite sides and enjoy!
Chicken Schnitzel FAQs
We’ve put together a list of the most popular questions we get asked when cooking up chicken schnitzel.
What are the other ways to cook a chicken schnitzel not in an air fryer?
There are several ways to cook chicken schnitzel:
- Pan frying: The schnitzel is coated in breadcrumbs and then cooked in a shallow pan with oil or butter until it becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Oven baking: The schnitzel is placed on a baking sheet and cooked in a preheated oven until it is cooked through and crispy.
- Grilling: Cooking the schnitzel on a grill or barbecue, giving it a smoky flavour.
- Deep frying: This is a traditional method where the schnitzel is submerged in hot oil until it turns golden and crispy, like what you’d get at a pub.
Each method offers a slightly different texture and flavour profile, allowing for versatility in preparing a delicious chicken schnitzel.
How many calories in a chicken schnitzel?
The number of calories in a chicken schnitzel can vary depending on the size and preparation method. On average, a chicken schnitzel can contain around 300-400 calories per serving. This includes the calories from the chicken breast, breading, and any added oils used for frying. It is important to note that the calorie content can increase if additional toppings or sauces are added to the schnitzel.
Is chicken schnitzel healthy?
Chicken schnitzel is typically made by coating chicken breast in breadcrumbs and then frying it until golden brown. While it is a delicious and popular dish, it is not considered to be particularly healthy.
That being said, choosing to bake or grill the chicken schnitzel compared to deep frying it will decrease the amount of oil used, making it healthier. Likewise, choosing whole wheat bread crumbs and leaner cuts of chicken can also reduce the calories in it.
Can you freeze chicken schnitzel?
Yes, you can freeze chicken schnitzel. It is a convenient way to prolong its shelf life and ensure that it stays fresh for a longer period of time.
Once cooled, you can wrap the schnitzel tightly in plastic wrap or place them in airtight freezer bags. Proper packaging helps to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality. Then, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. When you are ready to eat the chicken schnitzel, reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop.
How long can chicken schnitzel stay in the fridge?
Chicken schnitzel can typically stay in the fridge for about 3-4 days. It is important to store it properly in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its freshness.
After this time, the schnitzel may start to lose its quality and taste. It is advisable to consume it within this timeframe to ensure food safety and flavour. If you want to extend its shelf life longer, you can also freeze the schnitzel for up to 3 months.
How long does it take to reheat chicken schnitzel in the oven, air fryer or microwave?
The time it takes to reheat chicken schnitzel can vary depending on the size and thickness of the schnitzel.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to around 350°F (175°C) and place the schnitzel on a baking sheet. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes or until it is heated through and crispy.
- Air Fryer: If using an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and cook the schnitzel for approximately 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Microwave: The microwave is the quickest option, but it may result in a slightly less crispy texture. Place the schnitzel on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly to prevent overcooking. Adjust the time as needed based on the wattage of your microwave.
What is better, store-bought or homemade chicken schnitzel?
This ultimately comes down to personal preference. Store-bought schnitzel offers convenience and time-saving benefits, as it can be easily prepared by simply heating it up.
However, homemade schnitzel provides an opportunity to customise the dish to your liking and allows for the use of fresher ingredients. Additionally, homemade schnitzel often tastes fresher and more flavourful with the use of high-quality ingredients and the absence of preservatives.
For more great dinner ideas, check out the full collection of delicious recipes at Robins Kitchen now!
About Air Fryers
Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, revolutionising the way we cook and enjoy our favourite foods. These innovative kitchen appliances offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying methods, allowing us to indulge in crispy and delicious dishes without the excessive use of oil.
One of the key advantages of air fryers is their ability to produce crispy and evenly cooked food with minimal oil. By utilising hot air circulation technology, air fryers create a convection effect that cooks food quickly and evenly. This means you can enjoy the satisfying crunch of fried foods without the guilt of excessive oil consumption. From crispy chips to golden chicken wings, air fryers can deliver the same mouthwatering results with significantly less fat.
In addition to their healthier cooking benefits, air fryers also offer convenience and versatility in the kitchen. With adjustable temperature controls and preset cooking functions, these appliances can handle a wide range of recipes, from appetisers to main courses and even desserts. Whether you're craving a batch of homemade onion rings or a perfectly grilled steak, an air fryer can be your go-to tool for achieving delicious results.
Furthermore, air fryers are known for their time-saving capabilities. With their rapid cooking technology, they can significantly reduce cooking times compared to traditional methods. This makes them ideal for busy individuals or families who want to enjoy homemade meals without spending hours in the kitchen. From quick weeknight dinners to impromptu gatherings, air fryers can help you whip up tasty dishes in no time.
To make the most of your air fryer, it's essential to explore a variety of recipes. From classic favourites to innovative creations, there are countless possibilities to explore. Whether you're looking for crispy vegetables, juicy meats, or delectable desserts, air fryer recipes can provide you with endless inspiration.
Want to know how to care for your air fryer? Read our article “The Complete Guide to Using an Air Fryer”.
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