NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe: A Timeless Classic with a Modern Twist

The NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel recipe takes a well-loved traditional dish and elevates it with a fresh, modern approach. For those unfamiliar with this delightful meal, schnitzel is a breaded and fried cutlet of meat—most commonly chicken or pork—fried to a golden crisp perfection. What makes this chicken schnitzel special is its crispy coating, juicy interior, and the satisfaction it brings to every bite. This dish, rooted in European cuisine, has found its way into kitchens worldwide due to its simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal.

Whether you’re preparing this schnitzel for a family dinner, a casual lunch with friends, or an elegant dinner party, it’s a versatile dish that fits any occasion. Its adaptability also makes it a great option for those following specific dietary preferences, as it can easily be made gluten-free, baked instead of fried, or paired with various sides for different flavor experiences.

In this blog, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel, including everything from selecting the best ingredients to expert frying tips. You’ll also discover how to adapt the recipe to various dietary needs, find helpful flavor variations, and explore the best sides and serving suggestions to complement your schnitzel. Plus, we’ll share nutritional information, storage tips, and even answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your schnitzel experience is seamless from start to finish.

If this recipe sounds like something you’d enjoy, don’t forget to check out our Dinner Recipes for even more culinary inspiration and ideas to pair with your schnitzel.

Ingredients Overview: The Core Ingredients for NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

Cooking a flavorful and crispy chicken schnitzel starts with fresh, high-quality ingredients. These components come together to create a dish that is both simple and satisfying. Let’s take a look at the main ingredients you’ll need to craft your own NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel at home.

Main Ingredients:

Chicken breast fillets (4 medium, boneless and skinless): These are the star of the dish. Using boneless and skinless chicken breasts ensures the schnitzel is lean, while pounding the fillets to an even thickness allows for uniform cooking and a tender interior.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): A light dusting of flour helps the egg wash adhere to the chicken, creating a smooth base layer for the breadcrumb coating. If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap out the flour for a gluten-free variety.
Eggs (2 large): Eggs act as the binder, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken for that crunchy outer layer. If you’re making a vegan version, a plant-based egg alternative like a flax egg can be used.
Breadcrumbs (2 cups): Breadcrumbs form the crispy coating of the schnitzel. You can use regular breadcrumbs for a traditional crunch, or opt for Panko breadcrumbs if you want an extra-light and crispy texture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings like salt and pepper help enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. Be generous but don’t overdo it—balance is key!
Vegetable oil or canola oil (for frying): A neutral, high-smoke-point oil is essential for achieving that golden-brown exterior without burning the coating. Oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil work well for this dish.
Lemon wedges (for serving): A squeeze of lemon juice over the schnitzel adds a refreshing citrus kick, cutting through the richness of the fried chicken and adding brightness to the dish.

Possible Substitutions:

For a gluten-free version: Replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Many supermarkets offer a wide selection of gluten-free baking products, making this substitution easy.
For a lower-fat version: If you want to reduce the amount of oil used, you can bake the schnitzels instead of frying them. Simply spray the breaded chicken with a bit of oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Herbed schnitzel: You can mix fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor. This adds a subtle, herby aroma that pairs well with the crispy chicken.

Want more recipes that cater to specific dietary needs? Explore our Snacks Recipes for easy-to-make, versatile dishes like this schnitzel.

NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe

Tools Needed: Essential Equipment for Making the Perfect Schnitzel

In addition to high-quality ingredients, the right tools are crucial for achieving the perfect schnitzel. Having these tools on hand will make the cooking process smooth, enjoyable, and ensure that your NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel comes out as crispy and delicious as possible.

Essential Tools:

Meat mallet: A meat mallet is a must-have for pounding the chicken breast to an even thickness, which is essential for even cooking. If you don’t have a meat mallet, a rolling pin or even the bottom of a heavy skillet can work in a pinch. Just make sure to cover the chicken with plastic wrap or parchment paper to avoid a mess.
Shallow bowls or plates: You’ll need three shallow bowls or plates—one for the flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumbs. This makes it easy to coat the chicken without spilling or making a mess.
Large frying pan or skillet: A wide, heavy-bottomed frying pan or skillet is ideal for frying the schnitzels. The wider the pan, the more schnitzels you can cook at once, allowing for even browning and avoiding crowding in the pan, which can lead to soggy schnitzels.
Tongs: Tongs are essential for flipping the schnitzels without disturbing the crispy coating. They give you better control than a spatula and help prevent the breadcrumbs from falling off.
Paper towels: Have paper towels ready to drain the schnitzels after frying. This removes excess oil, ensuring that your schnitzel stays crispy and light rather than greasy.
Thermometer (optional): If you want to be extra precise, a food thermometer can help ensure that the chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking or undercooking.

Alternatives and Tips:

No meat mallet? If you don’t have a meat mallet, don’t worry! You can use a rolling pin, a wine bottle, or the bottom of a heavy pan. Just make sure to pound the chicken evenly to avoid thick and thin spots, which can result in uneven cooking.
No tongs? A slotted spatula will also work for flipping the schnitzel, although it may be a bit trickier to keep the coating intact. Be gentle and turn the schnitzel slowly to preserve the breading.

Check out our Dinner Recipes for other dishes that utilize similar kitchen tools and techniques for making flavorful, crisp meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to begin the cooking process. This step-by-step guide ensures that even novice cooks can create a delicious, crispy NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel at home. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll achieve a perfectly golden-brown schnitzel that’s tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.

Step 1: Pound the Chicken

Begin by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. This keeps your workspace clean and prevents the chicken from sticking to the mallet.
Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken breast to an even thickness of about ¼ inch. The thinner the chicken, the quicker it will cook, and the crispier the schnitzel will be. Make sure not to pound too hard, as you don’t want to tear the meat.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures that the chicken is flavorful throughout and not just on the surface.
For extra flavor, you can also season the flour or breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, or any other spices you enjoy. Just make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Set Up the Dredging Station

In three shallow bowls or plates, prepare the dredging station. One bowl should contain the flour, another should have the beaten eggs, and the final one should hold the breadcrumbs.
Start by dipping each chicken breast in the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour, as too much can make the schnitzel heavy.
Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off before moving on to the breadcrumbs.
Finally, press the chicken breast into the breadcrumbs, ensuring that both sides are well coated. For an extra crispy schnitzel, press down gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere firmly.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan or skillet, heat about ¼ inch of vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. To test if the oil is ready, drop in a small piece of breadcrumb—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the breaded chicken schnitzels into the hot oil. Depending on the size of your pan, you may need to fry the schnitzels in batches. Overcrowding the pan can cause the schnitzels to steam rather than fry, resulting in a soggy coating.
Fry the schnitzels for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F.
Once the schnitzels are crispy and cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve the schnitzels hot, with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. The fresh lemon juice adds a bright contrast to the rich, crispy schnitzel.

Enjoy your delicious schnitzel with a side of German potato salad or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Flavor Variations: How to Customize Your NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

While the classic NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel recipe is a winner on its own, there are endless ways to customize and enhance the flavors to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Below are some exciting variations you can try to give your schnitzel a personal twist.

1. Herb-Infused Schnitzel

For a fresh, fragrant take on schnitzel, add finely chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture. The herbs infuse the schnitzel with a light, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy coating and juicy chicken. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for an extra savory kick.

2. Spicy Schnitzel

If you like a bit of heat, mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili powder into the flour or breadcrumb mixture. The added spice gives the schnitzel a fiery kick while retaining its classic crunch. For even more flavor, drizzle the finished schnitzel with a spicy aioli or hot sauce before serving.

3. Cheese-Stuffed Schnitzel

To make a schnitzel that oozes with cheesy goodness, you can stuff the chicken breast with cheese before breading it. Simply cut a pocket into the thickest part of the chicken breast, insert a thin slice of cheese (Swiss or mozzarella work well), and secure the edges with toothpicks. Then proceed with breading and frying as usual. When you cut into the schnitzel, you’ll be treated to a melty, cheesy center!

4. Vegan Schnitzel

For a plant-based version of this classic dish, substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan. Use plant-based milk for the egg wash (such as almond or soy milk) and vegan breadcrumbs. The process of breading and frying remains the same, and you’ll still get that crunchy, satisfying exterior with a tender interior.

5. Oven-Baked Schnitzel

For a healthier alternative, bake the schnitzel instead of frying it. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet. Spray or brush the schnitzels with a little oil to help them brown. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Want more flavor customization ideas? Check out our Snacks Recipes for creative ways to personalize your favorite dishes.

Expert Tips: Secrets to the Perfect NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

Creating the perfect NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel isn’t just about following the recipe; it’s also about mastering key techniques that will help you achieve that perfectly crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy interior every time. Here are some expert tips that will elevate your schnitzel-making game:

1. Pound the Chicken Evenly

One of the most important steps in making schnitzel is pounding the chicken breast to an even thickness. Unevenly pounded chicken will cook at different rates, leading to dry or undercooked spots. Take your time with this step, and make sure the chicken is no more than ¼ inch thick. This ensures quick, even cooking and the right texture.

2. Chill the Schnitzels Before Frying

After coating the chicken in breadcrumbs, let the schnitzels rest in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before frying. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better and prevents them from falling off during cooking. It also gives the chicken time to firm up, which makes it easier to fry to a perfect golden brown.

3. Use High-Smoke-Point Oil

For the best frying results, always use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. Olive oil tends to burn at lower temperatures, which can affect the flavor and appearance of the schnitzel. High-smoke-point oils allow you to fry the schnitzel at the right temperature, ensuring that the coating crisps up without burning.

4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

When frying schnitzels, resist the urge to overcrowd the pan. Frying too many schnitzels at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy, greasy schnitzels instead of the desired crispy coating. Fry in batches if necessary, and make sure there’s enough space for the schnitzels to fry evenly.

5. Drain Properly

Once the schnitzels are done frying, immediately transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil, keeping the schnitzel crispy and light. Don’t skip this step, as it can make all the difference in the final texture of your dish.

For more cooking techniques that will help you perfect your meals, check out our Dinner Recipes where we share pro tips for achieving restaurant-quality dishes at home.

Nutritional Information: The Health Benefits and Nutritional Profile of Chicken Schnitzel

While NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel is known for being a rich and indulgent dish, it can still be part of a balanced diet when prepared mindfully. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional value of this schnitzel and explore ways to make it healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):

Calories: 400-450 calories, depending on the type of oil and breadcrumbs used.
Protein: 35-40g per serving, making this a great source of lean protein.
Fat: 15-20g, primarily from the frying oil. If baked, the fat content will be lower.
Carbohydrates: 25-30g, from the flour and breadcrumbs.
Fiber: 2g, which can be increased by using whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Sodium: 600-700mg, depending on the seasoning and the amount of salt used.

Health Benefits:

Lean Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscles and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
Customizable Nutrition: You can easily reduce the calorie and fat content by baking the schnitzel instead of frying it, or by using healthier oil alternatives like avocado oil. Additionally, choosing gluten-free or whole-wheat breadcrumbs can increase the fiber content, making the dish more heart-healthy.
Versatile: Pairing schnitzel with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad can make this a more balanced meal, adding vitamins, minerals, and fiber to round out the nutritional profile.

For more information on how to balance your meals and make healthier choices, check out this trusted health blog, which offers insights into creating delicious, nutritious dishes.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

Chicken schnitzel is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and condiments to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for traditional accompaniments or something more modern and creative, here are some of the best ways to serve your schnitzel.

Traditional Serving Ideas:

German Potato Salad: A classic accompaniment to schnitzel, German potato salad is made with boiled potatoes, onions, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. The warm, slightly tart flavors of the salad complement the richness of the schnitzel perfectly.
Sauerkraut: For a traditional German twist, serve your schnitzel with a side of sauerkraut. The tangy, fermented cabbage adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy, fried chicken.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting and satisfying side that pairs beautifully with schnitzel. For an extra touch of decadence, mix in garlic, butter, or cream cheese for added richness.

Modern Serving Ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: Serve schnitzel with a colorful array of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and bell peppers. The roasted vegetables provide a healthy and flavorful contrast to the fried schnitzel.
Cucumber Dill Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber and dill salad adds a cool, crisp contrast to the warm schnitzel. The dill brings a hint of brightness that enhances the overall meal.
Garlic Parmesan Fries: For a fun and indulgent twist, pair your schnitzel with crispy garlic Parmesan fries. The salty, savory fries add a satisfying crunch that complements the schnitzel’s crispy coating.

Looking for more ideas to round out your meal? Check out our Dinner Recipes for creative side dishes and pairing suggestions.

Storage Tips: How to Store and Reheat NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing and reheating your NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel properly is key to maintaining its crispy texture and delicious flavor. Follow these simple storage tips to keep your schnitzel tasting fresh and ready to enjoy later.

In the Fridge:

Store leftover schnitzels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the schnitzels cool completely before sealing them in the container to prevent moisture from building up and making them soggy.

In the Freezer:

If you’d like to freeze schnitzels for a longer storage period, wrap each schnitzel individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen schnitzels can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

In the Oven: To reheat and maintain the schnitzel’s crispiness, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the schnitzels on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy on the outside.
In the Air Fryer: If you have an air fryer, this is a great way to reheat schnitzels without losing their crunch. Reheat at 350°F for 5-8 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.
Avoid the Microwave: While it’s tempting to use the microwave for quick reheating, it tends to make the schnitzel soggy and unevenly heated. Stick to the oven or air fryer for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make Schnitzel Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the schnitzels by breading them ahead of time and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. This is a great option if you’re planning to entertain guests and want to cut down on last-minute preparation. Just make sure to keep the schnitzels covered to prevent them from drying out in the fridge.

What Is the Best Oil for Frying Schnitzel?

The best oils for frying schnitzel are those with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil. These oils can handle the high heat needed for frying without burning or imparting a bitter taste. Olive oil, while flavorful, is not recommended for high-heat frying due to its lower smoke point.

Can I Bake Schnitzel Instead of Frying It?

Absolutely! Baking schnitzel is a healthier alternative to frying, and it still results in a crispy exterior if done correctly. Simply bake the breaded schnitzels in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Lightly spray or brush the schnitzels with oil before baking to help them brown evenly.

Looking for more frequently asked questions about schnitzel and other similar dishes? Check out our Breakfast Recipes for answers to common cooking queries.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel is more than just a delicious, golden-brown piece of chicken; it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that can be tailored to suit any occasion or dietary preference. From the crispy, flavorful coating to the tender, juicy chicken inside, this schnitzel recipe is a winner that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a weekend lunch, or as part of a larger celebration, the schnitzel can be paired with various sides and flavorings to fit your meal perfectly. Its simplicity allows it to stand alone as a comfort food, while its adaptability makes it a great canvas for culinary creativity.