Description
Crispy, golden, and delicious, this Pork Schnitzel recipe brings a classic German favorite to your kitchen. Thin pork cutlets are breaded and pan-fried to perfection, yielding a juicy interior and irresistibly crunchy exterior. Enjoy this quick and comforting main course with a fresh lemon wedge and your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Pork Schnitzel
- 4 boneless pork chops (about 1/2-inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups plain breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 1 cup, depending on pan size)
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork: Place each pork chop between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Season and Set Up Dredging Station: Pat the pork dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with milk, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Cutlets: Dredge each pork cutlet in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Schnitzels: Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully lay in the breaded cutlets, working in batches if necessary. Fry 2-3 minutes per side or until golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Plate the schnitzel warm, finished with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately for best texture.
Notes
- Pounding the pork ensures even thickness for uniform cooking and tenderness.
- Panko breadcrumbs create extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in batches so each schnitzel gets crispy.
- Serve with classic sides like potato salad, cucumber salad, or spaetzle.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 schnitzel
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 130mg