Oven-baked chicken schnitzels

Delicious Baked Chicken Schnitzel Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Chicken schnitzel is a classic dish, appreciated in kitchens around the world for its crunchy texture and savory taste. This simple baked chicken schnitzel recipe combines tradition with innovation, offering a healthier alternative due to baking instead of frying. The dish can be served at both a casual family dinner and a festive meal. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 2 pieces of boneless chicken breast (ideally from local sources, if available)
- 2 eggs
- 3 tablespoons of milk
- Flour (approximately 100g)
- Breadcrumbs (approximately 150g)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)

Serving suggestions:

- Boiled potatoes with paprika and red onion
- Sauce made from 2 teaspoons of mustard mixed with 3 teaspoons of chili sauce for an extra flavor kick

Useful:

- A large baking tray lined with parchment paper
- 3 deep plates for ingredient preparation
- A meat mallet

Preparing the chicken schnitzel:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. Then, dry it with a paper towel. Slice it into thin pieces, about 1-1.5 cm thick, to ensure even baking.

2. Tenderizing the meat:
Use a meat mallet to gently pound each slice of meat. This step not only helps tenderize the meat but also gives it a pleasant texture. Don’t use too much force; the goal is to get thin and even slices.

3. Seasoning:
Salt and pepper each slice of meat on both sides. This step is essential to add flavor to the schnitzel.

4. Preparing the breading station:
Arrange 3 plates in the following order: the first with flour, the second with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and the third with breadcrumbs. The flour will help create a crispy crust, the eggs will act as a binder, and the breadcrumbs will provide that desired crunchy texture.

5. Bread the schnitzel:
Take each piece of meat and dip it in flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then, dip it in the egg mixture and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well to the meat.

6. Baking:
Place the schnitzels on the lined baking tray. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for 30-35 minutes, turning the schnitzels halfway through to ensure even browning.

Helpful tips:

- For an even crispier crust: You can add some grated parmesan to the breadcrumbs. This will enhance the flavor and add an extra touch of taste.
- Pears and sauces: If you want to bring a note of freshness, you can add some caramelized pear slices alongside the schnitzel. The sweet-sour combination will perfectly balance the taste.
- Variations: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as whole grain or herb-flavored breadcrumbs.

Nutritional benefits:

Baked chicken schnitzel is an excellent source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle health. It is also a healthier option compared to the fried version, having a lower fat content. Some additional benefits include:

- Vitamin source: Chicken meat is rich in B vitamins, which help metabolize energy.
- Minerals: It contains minerals like phosphorus and selenium, essential for bone health and the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. What type of meat can I use instead of chicken?
You can use turkey or even pork, but the baking time may vary.

2. Can I freeze the schnitzel?
Yes, you can freeze the already cooked schnitzel, but it is recommended to consume it within 2-3 months to maintain texture and taste.

3. What can it be served with?
This schnitzel pairs perfectly with a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your meal and have fun cooking! This baked chicken schnitzel will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.