Chicken schnitzel stuffed with ham and cheese (A mix of flavors!)

Delicious recipe for chicken schnitzel stuffed with ham and cheese: A blend of flavors!

Who doesn't love a crispy and juicy schnitzel? This recipe for chicken schnitzel stuffed with ham and cheese will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of joy to your table! It's a simple, quick, and flavorful recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. We will explore together the necessary steps to achieve a perfect schnitzel, as well as some tricks and suggestions to make it even more special.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:

For the schnitzel:
- 1 chicken breast
- 100 g Prague ham
- 100 g cheese
- 2 eggs
- 100 g breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying

For the garnish:
- 200 g broccoli
- 200 g cauliflower
- 50 g butter

A brief history of the recipe:
Schnitzel, in its various forms, is an iconic dish that has crossed borders and cultures. From classic beef and pork variations to those made with chicken or turkey, schnitzel has become a favorite at many meals. The varied fillings, such as ham and cheese, add an extra layer of flavor and texture, transforming it into a special dish.

Step by step - Your guide to a perfect schnitzel:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. Dry it with a paper towel.
- Cut the breast into thin slices, being careful not to make them too thin to avoid drying out when frying.

2. Stuffing the schnitzel:
- Divide the ham and cheese into 4 slices each.
- Using a meat mallet, gently pound each slice of chicken breast to flatten them slightly. This will help achieve a more tender texture.
- Season each piece with salt and pepper, to taste.
- On each slice of chicken, place a slice of cheese and one of ham. Fold the breast over the filling to create a well-sealed package.

3. Coating the schnitzel:
- Beat the two eggs in a bowl and add a pinch of salt.
- Prepare the breadcrumbs in another bowl.
- Dip each stuffed schnitzel in the egg, ensuring it is well coated, then in the breadcrumbs, pressing the edges gently to seal the filling.

4. Frying the schnitzel:
- In a deep skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat.
- When the oil is hot, carefully add the schnitzels, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
- Once done, remove the schnitzels onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

5. Preparing the garnish:
- While the schnitzels are frying, wash the cauliflower and broccoli and break them into florets.
- Boil salted water in a pot and add the vegetables. Boil for 5 minutes, then drain well.
- In a small skillet, melt the butter and add the cauliflower and broccoli florets, stirring well to coat them with melted butter.

6. Serving:
- Place the schnitzels on plates alongside the vegetable garnish. You can add a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper on top for extra flavor.
- A wonderful idea is to serve these schnitzels with a salad of tomatoes and cucumbers, which will add a fresh and crunchy contrast to the dish.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough to achieve a crispy crust. You can check the temperature by adding a small piece of breadcrumb; if it sizzles immediately, it’s ready!
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add spices like garlic powder or herbs to the breadcrumbs.
- If you want a healthier option, you can bake the schnitzels in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes, turning them halfway through.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, this recipe is versatile, and you can replace the chicken with pork or turkey, adjusting the cooking time if necessary.
- What other garnishes can I use? You can try mashed potatoes, rice, or a green salad for a balanced meal.
- How can I store the schnitzels to consume later? You can keep the schnitzels in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven or in a skillet to regain the crispy crust.

Nutritional benefits:
This chicken schnitzel stuffed with ham and cheese provides a quality protein source from the chicken, while the cheese offers calcium, essential for bone health. Broccoli and cauliflower are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a strong immune system.

Calories:
A serving of chicken schnitzel stuffed with ham and cheese, served with the vegetable garnish, has approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the oil used and the portion sizes of the garnish. It is a dish that, although it may have a higher caloric content, provides a nutritional balance through its ingredients.

In conclusion, this chicken schnitzel stuffed with ham and cheese is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that brings together diverse flavors and textures. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!