Chicken schnitzel with spinach

Chicken Schnitzels with Spinach - A Classic and Flavorful Recipe

If you want to bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen, you can't go wrong with this recipe for chicken schnitzels with spinach. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. Often, chicken schnitzels are associated with joyful moments, childhood memories, and meals where the aroma of cooking blends with the laughter of loved ones. Let's discover together how to prepare them!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 1-2 hours
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 35 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg
- Flour, for breading the schnitzels
- Oil, for frying
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (to taste)
- 400 g spinach (can be frozen or fresh)
- 2 cups of milk
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream

A Brief History
Chicken schnitzels are a popular dish in many culinary cultures, appreciated for their crispy texture and savory flavor. This recipe may vary from family to family, each adding a personal touch, but the essence remains the same: tender meat, coated with a golden crust, often served with a delicious side dish. Spinach, rich in nutrients, perfectly complements this dish, adding a splash of color and flavor.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Meat
1. Start by slicing the chicken breasts into medium-thick pieces, not too thin, to retain the juiciness of the meat.
2. Use a meat mallet to gently pound each slice until it becomes uniform. This technique will help the meat cook evenly and become more tender.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken slices, then cover them with plastic wrap and let them sit in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours. This step is essential to allow the spices to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Preparing the Spinach
1. If using fresh spinach, wash it well and bring water to a boil in a pot. When the water starts to boil, add the spinach and let it boil for 5-7 minutes. Then, drain it and chop it finely.
2. If using frozen spinach, ensure it is already cooked. Simply let it drain in a colander to remove excess water.

Step 3: Preparing the Schnitzel
1. Prepare a deep frying pan to fry the schnitzels. Add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Dredge each chicken slice in flour, then in the beaten egg, making sure each piece is well coated. This process will give the schnitzel a crispy and golden crust.
3. Carefully place the schnitzels in the hot oil and fry them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they become golden and crispy. After frying, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Preparing the Spinach Sauce
1. In a saucepan, add a little oil and sauté the crushed garlic over low heat until it turns golden. Be careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and mix well to form a roux. Let it cook for a bit, then gradually add the milk, constantly stirring with a whisk to avoid lumps.
3. Once the sauce has started to thicken, add the drained spinach and mix well. Let the sauce simmer over low heat, stirring frequently, until it becomes creamy. Add salt to taste.

Step 5: Assembly and Serving
1. On each plate, place a crispy chicken schnitzel, and pour the creamy spinach sauce on top.
2. You can serve this dish alongside fresh radishes, which will add a note of freshness and crunch. Additionally, a green salad can be an excellent side to complete the meal.

Practical Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add spices like sweet paprika or herbs to the flour mixture.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the schnitzels instead of frying them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 200 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes.
- For a richer sauce, add sour cream to the spinach sauce to make it even creamier.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with pork or turkey, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I keep the schnitzels crispy?
It is important to serve them immediately after frying. If you need to keep them, use a wire rack to prevent condensation.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

Nutritional Benefits
This chicken schnitzel with spinach recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken provides quality protein, while spinach is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. Regular consumption of green vegetables, like spinach, contributes to a balanced and healthy diet.

Possible Variations
- Spinach sauce with cheese: Add feta or parmesan cheese to the spinach sauce for an extra flavor.
- Herb schnitzels: Add dried herbs like oregano or basil to the flour mixture for a special aroma.

In conclusion, the chicken schnitzel with spinach recipe is simple, tasty, and perfect for any occasion. With a few adjustments and variations, you can transform this classic dish into a true delicacy. Don't hesitate to put your personal touch on it and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!