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Ingredients
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Schnitzel
Optional sides (choose one)
Method
Schnitzel
Prepare chicken
Trim any fat from the chicken breasts. Place one breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a zipper bag. Using a meat mallet or heavy skillet, pound the breast from the thickest point outward until it is an even 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness. Repeat with remaining breasts. Pat the cutlets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with 3/4 teaspoon of the kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of the black pepper (reserve remaining salt/pepper for breadcrumb mix if desired).
Set up breading stations
In a shallow dish, add the flour and spread it evenly. In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until smooth. In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, paprika, remaining 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; mix until homogenous.
Bread the cutlets
Working with one cutlet at a time, dredge the chicken in flour, tapping off excess. Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to create an even coating; shake off loose crumbs. Place breaded cutlets on a wire rack or baking sheet. Repeat for all cutlets. For best adherence, let breaded cutlets rest 10 minutes in the refrigerator while you heat the oil.
Heat pan
In a large skillet (cast iron or heavy-bottomed) heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering and a small pinch of breadcrumb sizzles immediately (about 350°F / 175°C if using a thermometer). Add the butter to the pan and swirl to combine; the butter will foam briefly. The fat should be hot but not smoking.
Fry the schnitzels
Working in a single layer (do not overcrowd the pan), carefully add 1–2 cutlets to the hot fat. Fry 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving, until deep golden brown. Flip and fry another 2–3 minutes until the second side is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Adjust heat as needed to keep an even golden color without burning. Transfer cooked cutlets to a clean rack or paper towel-lined tray. Repeat with remaining cutlets, adding more oil/butter as needed between batches.
Optional sides (brief prep notes)
Green salad: Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette just before serving and plate next to schnitzel to add freshness.


