There’s a certain magic that happens in the kitchen when you hear the crisp sound of chicken sizzling in hot oil, transporting me to cheerful family dinners. Today, I’m excited to share Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel, a recipe that’s both gluten-friendly and rooted in comforting Australian cuisine. This dish dazzles with a beautifully crunchy breadcrumb coating that encases tender chicken, perfectly paired with a refreshing coleslaw that adds a zesty contrast. Not only is this recipe quick to prepare—ready in under an hour—but it’s also a versatile favorite that can elevate any meal, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a feast with friends. Curious how to make it shine on your table? Let’s get cooking!
Why is This Chicken Schnitzel a Must-Try?
Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Crispy Goodness: The golden, crunchy coating gives each bite a satisfying texture that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
Versatile Dish: Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries for a comforting meal that adapts to any occasion!
Flavor Burst: The zesty lemon and fresh parsley elevate the schnitzel, harmonizing beautifully with the vibrant coleslaw.
Make Ahead: Prep your schnitzels in advance and simply fry them up fresh—perfect for busy weeknights!
Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this schnitzel is sure to impress. For more mouthwatering chicken ideas, don’t miss my Chopped Chicken Bacon or zesty Lemon Chicken Deliciously.
Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel Ingredients
Get ready to whip up a delightful dish full of flavor!
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For the Schnitzel
• Woolworths RSPCA Approved Chicken Breast – Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Fresh Breadcrumbs – Opt for homemade breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.
• Finely Grated Parmesan – Adds a wonderful nuttiness to the crispy coating.
• Lemon Zest – Infuses a zesty brightness into the schnitzel.
• Flat-leaf Parsley – A fresh herbal touch that can be substituted with other herbs.
• Egg – Acts as a binder to cling those crunchy breadcrumbs.
• Milk – Moisturizes the egg wash; plant-based milk works great for dairy-free options.
• Plain Flour – Dust the chicken before coating to help the egg wash stick.
• Olive Oil – Essential for frying, giving the schnitzel that beautifully crispy finish. -
For the Coleslaw
• Savoy Cabbage – Provides a sweet crunch that balances the dish.
• Carrot – Adds color and sweetness to the slaw.
• Red Onion – Offers a mild onion taste, enhancing the coleslaw’s flavor.
• Whole-egg Mayonnaise – Binds the slaw while adding a creamy richness.
• Flat-leaf Parsley – Mix in just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Currants – Introduce a sweet chewiness that complements the crisp veggies.
This Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel is a delightful twist on comfort food that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel with Refreshing Coleslaw
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by laying halved chicken fillets between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tenderness. Once flattened, season lightly with salt and pepper, allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken as you move on to the next steps.
Step 2: Make Coating
In a medium mixing bowl, combine fresh breadcrumbs, finely grated parmesan, lemon zest, chopped flat-leaf parsley, and a pinch of black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything until well combined, as this creates a flavorful crispy coating for your homestyle chicken schnitzel. Set this aside while you get the egg wash ready.
Step 3: Prepare Egg Wash
In another bowl, whisk together the egg and a splash of milk until fully blended. The egg wash is essential for helping the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken. Make sure to have your ingredients within arm’s reach, as you’ll soon be assembling the schnitzels for frying.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dredge each flattened chicken fillet in plain flour, ensuring an even dusting on both sides. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating well. For optimal results, place the coated schnitzels on a plate and chill them in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set the coating.
Step 5: Prepare Coleslaw
While the schnitzels chill, prepare the coleslaw. In a large bowl, combine shredded savoy cabbage, grated carrot, and finely sliced red onion. Add whole-egg mayonnaise, tossing everything together until evenly coated. Let the coleslaw sit at room temperature to meld the flavors while you focus on cooking the schnitzels.
Step 6: Cook Schnitzels
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the schnitzels into the hot oil, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; you want them perfectly crunchy on the outside while juicy inside.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Once the schnitzels are cooked through, place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Toss the coleslaw with fresh parsley and currants just before serving. Arrange the crispy schnitzels alongside the coleslaw, adding lemon wedges for a zesty squeeze, and enjoy this delightful homestyle chicken schnitzel dinner with friends or family!
Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this comforting dish, transforming it into something uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to keep it friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters while maintaining that crunchy goodness.
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Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a delightful kick that elevates the dish.
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Pork Schnitzel: Swap the chicken for pork loin or tenderloin. The rich flavor of pork gives a luscious twist that pairs wonderfully with the coleslaw.
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Herb-Infused: Mix dried herbs like thyme or oregano into the breadcrumbs for an aromatic boost that will have everyone asking for the recipe. This subtle change enhances every bite!
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Vegan Option: Use eggplant slices or tofu as a base and coat them in breadcrumbs for a satisfying vegetarian twist. Follow the same doughing process to enjoy a crunchy, plant-based alternative.
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Savory Sauces: Experiment with serving different sauces like homemade tartar or a zesty chimichurri. They’ll add a delightful layer of flavor that makes each bite pop.
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Coleslaw Variations: Brighten your slaw by adding sliced apples or nuts for a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness, making it a refreshing companion to the schnitzel.
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Crunchy Toppings: For an added crunch, sprinkle crushed nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds on top of the coleslaw right before serving. It offers a delightful contrast to the crisp schnitzel.
These variations not only cater to different tastes but also allow you to bring your own family traditions to the table. Enjoy your cooking journey! For more delicious chicken recipes, like the Juicy Greek Chicken Meatballs or a comforting Honey Dijon Chicken pasta, check out my other posts!
How to Store and Freeze Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel
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Fridge: Store leftover chicken schnitzel in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and safe to eat.
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Freezer: Freeze cooked schnitzels for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: For best results, reheat schnitzels in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes or use an air fryer to restore its crispiness.
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Coleslaw Storage: Keep coleslaw in the fridge for up to 3 days. Mix vegetables and mayonnaise separately but combine fresh herbs just before serving for maximum flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Homestyle Chicken Schnitzels are ideal for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can coat the chicken up to 24 hours ahead; simply follow the coating steps, then chill the breaded schnitzels in the refrigerator. This chilling helps the coating adhere better. For the coleslaw, feel free to prepare it up to 3 days in advance; just mix the shredded vegetables with mayonnaise, storing it in an airtight container, but remember to fold in the fresh herbs right before serving to maintain their flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry the schnitzels fresh, and serve them alongside the coleslaw for a delicious, hassle-free meal that’s just as delightful as when you first made it!
What to Serve with Crispy Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel with Refreshing Coleslaw
When you’re about to savor the crispy delight of chicken schnitzel, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your meal experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture complements the crispy schnitzel, providing a comforting contrast. A drizzle of gravy could make this duo irresistible!
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Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the schnitzel. Their crispiness will satisfy your cravings while adding an extra pop of color!
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Garlic Green Beans: A burst of freshness and crunch, these beans add vibrant color and a nutty flavor that balances the richness of the chicken, rounding out your plate.
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Buttered Corn on the Cob: Juicy sweet corn brings a delightful pop of flavor that pairs well with the savory schnitzel. Plus, it’s a fun finger food that everyone loves!
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Tangy Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing salad that cleanses the palate between bites of schnitzel, enhancing the meal with its cool crunch and zesty dressing.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages that harmonize the flavors of your meal perfectly and help cool down the heat from the fried schnitzel on a warm day.
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Chocolate Mousse: To end your meal on a sweet note, this rich yet airy dessert is a perfect palate cleanser after the savory schnitzel! The three layers of chocolate create a decadent finish.
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Fruit Sorbet: For a lighter option, a scoop of fruity sorbet refreshes your palate with vibrant flavor and provides a delightful contrast to the crispy texture of the schnitzel.
Explore these pairings and watch how they transform your chicken schnitzel dinner into a memorable feast!
Expert Tips for Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel
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Chill Before Cooking: Placing the breaded schnitzels in the fridge for 30 minutes helps the coating to set and prevents it from falling off while frying.
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Quality Chicken Matters: Opt for Woolworths RSPCA Approved chicken breast, as high-quality poultry ensures tenderness and flavor in your homestyle chicken schnitzel.
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Don’t Rush the Frying: Fry the schnitzels in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan; this ensures even cooking and a crispy texture.
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Avoid Microwaving Leftovers: To maintain the crunchy coating, reheat leftover schnitzels in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave.
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Customize Your Coating: Feel free to experiment by adding spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor in your schnitzel.
Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for schnitzel?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I highly recommend using Woolworths RSPCA Approved Chicken Breast. Look for chicken breasts that are plump and pale in color with no dark spots or bruises. Fresh chicken that feels firm to the touch will ensure your schnitzel is juicy and delicious!
Can I store leftover chicken schnitzel?
Very! Store leftover chicken schnitzel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it to retain its texture. To enjoy it later, reheat in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave for a crispy finish!
How do I freeze chicken schnitzel?
Absolutely! To freeze cooked schnitzels, let them cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
What should I do if my schnitzel coating falls off while frying?
No worries! If you experience coating issues, it could be due to insufficient chilling before frying. Ensure you refrigerate the coated schnitzels for at least 30 minutes to help the breadcrumbs bind better. Additionally, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the schnitzels—this will help the coating adhere and create that beautiful crispy texture!
Is this chicken schnitzel recipe gluten-friendly?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be made gluten-friendly. Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend for dusting the chicken, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating. You can also check for gluten-free mayonnaise while preparing the coleslaw to maintain the gluten-friendly theme!
How do I store coleslaw?
Yes! Store your prepared coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, mix the vegetables and mayonnaise together, but wait to add the fresh herbs until just before serving to maintain flavor and texture. Enjoy your homestyle chicken schnitzel with coleslaw at its best!
Delicious Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel with Crunchy Coleslaw
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Lay halved chicken fillets between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound until 1/2 inch thick. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan, lemon zest, parsley, and black pepper until well mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until blended to create egg wash.
- Dredge chicken in plain flour, then dip into egg wash, and press into breadcrumb mixture. Place on a plate and chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare coleslaw by mixing cabbage, carrot, and red onion in a bowl. Add mayonnaise and toss until even.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry schnitzels for 4-5 minutes each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, drain schnitzels on paper towels. Toss coleslaw with parsley and currants just before serving.
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