Schnitzel is a fun word to say, isn’t it! So, what IS schnitzel? Schnitzel actually comes from the German word schnitt, which translates to “cut.” Basically, it is a simple way of preparing thin cutlets of meat by breading and frying them.
This chicken schnitzel recipe is similar to the traditional version in the sense that we are also using thin cutlets, also breading them and also pan-frying them.
However deep frying can really add the fat on quickly, so I wanted to lighten them up a little bit. So instead of deef frying I just added a few tablespoons of canola oil and found it to be the perfect amount. The chicken was so crispy and so juicy!
So the fact that this recipe uses less oil is what makes it a little healthier and lighter from the traditional! Plus did I mention it is also packed with protein?! 44 grams per serving!
This healthy chicken schnitzel recipe pairs well with SO many different sides! Serve with a side of veggies such as a fresh salad, my Air Fryer Broccoli, Ginger Maple Glazed Carrots, or Air Fryer Green Beans.
It’s also delicious paired with potato salad, french fries, mashed potatoes, or my Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges!
If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and give you soggy, oily schnitzel. I use quality extra virgin olive oil, which has a high enough smoke point to fry the schnitzel. You can use another healthy frying oil of your choice.
Can you make gluten-free chicken schnitzel?
You sure can! Just be sure to use gluten free flour and gluten free Panko breadcrumbs.
What makes this chicken schnitzel healthy?
It uses less oil than the traditional version. We’re more so pan-frying here than deep frying, so less oil is being used. Oils are great but they are calorie dense and it’s easy to add a lot of calories and fat with a little oil. So pan-frying them in this method cuts down the fat and calories and in a way we can better control and measure.
What oil do you use to fry schnitzel?
FAQ
Is olive oil good for frying schnitzel?
What is the best oil to fry a schnitzel in?
Is it better to cook schnitzel in butter or oil?
Can you cook schnitzel in peanut oil?
How to cook schnitzel?
First, schnitzel should be thin. Pound them really quite thin, salt and pepper them, then do the breading and put them in the pan soon after (no “pre-breading”). The oil should be about 1 cm/half an inch high in a wide pan and be about 190 °C/375 °F.
Can one cook with olive oil?
It is possible to cook with olive oil. However, it is not recommended for use in cooking fried foods. Olive oil has a lower smoke point, which can create unhealthy residues.
Can you fry schnitzel in oil?
The main thing to remember is that the momentary temperature of the oil the moment you add the schnitzel is not sufficient to ensure a well-fried schnitzel. You will have to control the whole heating process properly, and depending how you do it, the oil temperature at that specific point in time can vary.
How do you cook schnitzel in a frying pan?
A recent episode of America’s Test Kitchen recommended heating the oil to 375F and to gently shake the pan back and forth while frying. I tried it the other day and the schnitzel came out great. Shaking the pan keeps the oil temperature more even and help form a nice crisp crust.