What is pork schnitzel and how is it made?

Pork schnitzel is a thin cutlet of pork that is pounded until flat, then coated with breadcrumbs and pan-fried until golden and crispy. Traditionally, boneless pork chops are used for this dish. The breading usually involves dredging the meat in flour, dipping it in beaten eggs, and then covering it with seasoned breadcrumbs before frying in oil or butter.

Which cut of pork is best for making schnitzel?

The best cut for pork schnitzel is a thinly sliced, boneless pork chop or pork loin cutlet. These cuts are tender and easy to flatten, which helps the schnitzel cook quickly and evenly while maintaining juiciness. Avoid thick or heavily marbled cuts for the authentic texture and flavor.

What sides pair well with pork schnitzel?

Pork schnitzel pairs well with a variety of sides thanks to its mild, crispy flavor. Traditional options include a wedge of lemon, German potato salad, spaetzle, or cucumber salad. For simpler meals, mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or buttered corn also complement the dish nicely.

How can I get the schnitzel coating extra crispy without burning it?

To achieve a crispy coating, use enough oil or clarified butter to shallow fry the schnitzel and maintain medium heat during cooking. Make sure the pork is dry before breading, and press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the meat. Avoid overcrowding the pan so each schnitzel cooks evenly and crisps up properly.

Can I prepare pork schnitzel ahead of time and reheat it?

While pork schnitzel is best served fresh for maximum crispness, you can prepare it ahead by cooking and then keeping it warm in a low oven (about 200°F/90°C) on a wire rack to avoid sogginess. For reheating, use an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave to help retain the crunchy texture.

Pork Schnitzel Recipe With Crispy Perfectly Crunchy Coating

Name: Pork Schnitzel Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 4 boneless pork chops, each about 1/2 inch thick and trimmed of fat; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper for extra seasoning; 2 large eggs whisked with a splash of milk or half and half; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Olive oil or your preferred frying oil (amount as needed for shallow frying); Lemon wedges for serving and added flavor

Description

🐖 Crispy Pork Schnitzel Recipe delivers perfectly crunchy coating with tender, juicy pork inside for an irresistible meal.
🍋 This classic dish pairs beautifully with lemon wedges for fresh, tangy flavor that enhances every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless pork chops, each about 1/2 inch thick and trimmed of fat

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper for extra seasoning

2 large eggs whisked with a splash of milk or half and half

1 cup panko breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Olive oil or your preferred frying oil (amount as needed for shallow frying)

Lemon wedges for serving and added flavor

Instructions

1-Season the 4 boneless pork chops on both sides with the additional 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage for great flavor.

2-Dredge each pork chop in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumb mixture.

3-Fry the breaded pork chops in the hot oil for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and cooked through to a safe internal temperature.

4-Remove the pork chops from the oil and let them rest on a paper towel to drain excess oil, which keeps them crispy.

5-Serve right away with lemon wedges to brighten the taste, pairing it with sides like a simple salad for a complete meal.

Notes

🔥 Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with nutmeg for a light, flavorful crunch.
🍳 Maintain medium-high heat to avoid greasy coating and ensure crispness.
🍋 Serve with fresh lemon wedges to brighten the flavors and cut richness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: German

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pork chop

Keywords: Pork schnitzel,Crispy schnitzel,Panko crusted pork,Fried pork cutlet