As a lifelong Chicagoan, I’m proud of our city’s food scene. We have everything from deep-dish pizzas to hot dogs. But today, I want to share with you a dish that everyone loves: the Himmel Chicken Schnitzel.
I remember the smell of crispy chicken when my grandmother made schnitzel. It was tender and juicy, with a crunchy outside. Carol Himmel, a famous Chicago chef, has kept this tradition alive.
In this article, we’ll explore Carol’s Himmel Chicken Schnitzel, from NBC5 Chicago. We’ll cover the key ingredients and how to fry it perfectly. You’ll learn to make this beloved dish at home, blending traditional German flavors with a modern twist.
Key Takeaways
- Learn the secrets to making the perfect Himmel Chicken Schnitzel, as featured on NBC5 Chicago.
- Discover the essential ingredients and proper preparation techniques for achieving a crispy, golden-brown crust.
- Master the art of frying the schnitzel to perfection, ensuring a tender and flavorful result.
- Explore classic German side dishes and serving suggestions to complete the dining experience.
- Uncover make-ahead options for convenience and efficiency in your kitchen.
What is Himmel Chicken Schnitzel?
Himmel Chicken Schnitzel is a comfort food that really hits the spot. It’s a key part of German cuisine. The dish has tender chicken breasts covered in a golden, crunchy crust. This crust makes your taste buds happy and your soul warm.
This dish comes from traditional recipes in Germany. It’s loved by many who enjoy chicken dishes and classic recipes.
Crispy & Flavorful
The magic of Himmel Chicken Schnitzel is in how it’s made. The chicken breasts are pounded thin to be tender and juicy. Then, they’re coated in breadcrumbs, spices, and seasonings.
This makes a golden, crispy crust that keeps the chicken’s natural flavors inside. It’s a dish that’s perfect as a main course or part of a German meal.
“Himmel Chicken Schnitzel is a comforting and satisfying dish that transports you straight to the heart of German culinary tradition.”
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Schnitzel
To make a delicious chicken schnitzel, you need the right ingredients. The secret is to pick each part carefully. This ensures a crispy outside and a juicy inside.
The main ingredient is chicken breasts. Choose high-quality, boneless, and skinless ones for the best taste and texture. For the breading, use all-purpose flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs give it a light and crispy finish.
Seasoning is key. Mix seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and lemon zest. This blend enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a classic fried chicken dish. The perfect breaded chicken schnitzel is loved by all. It’s great as a main dish or part of a traditional recipes collection.
“The secret to a truly outstanding schnitzel lies in the harmony of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that signature crispiness and flavor.”
Proper Preparation Techniques
Creating the perfect chicken recipes and achieving that signature breaded chicken crunch starts with proper preparation. To get tender, evenly cooked chicken and a smooth cooking process, we need to focus on key preparation steps for our Himmel Chicken Schnitzel.
Pounding for Tenderness
The first step is to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This makes the chicken tender and cooks evenly. Use a meat mallet or the flat side of a heavy pan to pound the chicken breasts to about 1/4 inch thick.
This ensures the chicken cooks without dry or overcooked spots.
Setting up Breading Stations
Next, set up separate breading stations for an efficient preparation process. You’ll need three shallow dishes or plates. One for all-purpose flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for seasoned breadcrumbs.
This setup makes it easy to dredge the chicken in flour, dip it in eggs, and coat it with breadcrumbs. It’s a seamless process.
“Proper preparation is the foundation for a truly delicious breaded chicken dish.”
By using these simple yet effective preparation techniques, you’ll be on your way to making the perfect Himmel Chicken Schnitzel. It will have a golden, crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior.
Frying Technique for Crispiness
Achieving the perfect crispy texture is key for an amazing chicken schnitzel dish. The secret is in the frying technique. To get your breaded chicken golden and crunchy, follow these steps.
The Art of Frying Schnitzel
First, heat your oil to the right temperature, around 350°F to 375°F. This range makes the fried chicken sizzle and cook fast. It locks in the juices and gives a crispy exterior.
Timing is crucial when frying. Fry the chicken schnitzel for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Flip gently to keep the breading on. This time cooks the chicken recipes through and adds that crunchy texture.
- Heat oil to 350°F – 375°F
- Fry schnitzel for 3-4 minutes per side
- Flip gently to maintain breading
Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady. This ensures each piece of breaded chicken cooks evenly and gets that crispy coating.
“The secret to the crispiest, most delectable chicken schnitzel is all in the frying technique. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s simply irresistible.”
With these tips, you’ll master frying chicken recipes. You’ll create a fried chicken dish that will wow your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments
When serving Himmel Chicken Schnitzel, pair it with classic German side dishes. This makes the meal truly authentic. The right sides bring out the best in the dish.
Elevating the Schnitzel Experience
To make Himmel Chicken Schnitzel even better, try these classic German sides:
- Creamy and tangy potato salad
- Tangy and crisp sauerkraut
- Fresh lemon wedges for a zesty kick
These sides balance the schnitzel’s richness and honor German flavors. Together, they make a meal that’s both harmonious and satisfying.
“The perfect schnitzel is elevated by the right accompaniments, transporting your taste buds to the heart of Germany.”
For a great Himmel Chicken Schnitzel experience, balance the main dish with the right sides. Pairing it with these classic German dishes will make your chicken recipes shine. It brings a true taste of traditional dishes to your table.
Make-Ahead Options for Convenience
Our chicken recipes, like the Himmel Chicken Schnitzel, focus on ease and speed. They offer make-ahead options to make cooking simpler and quicker.
Start by preparing the chicken and setting up your breading station early. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Then, bread them using flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. You can store the schnitzels in the fridge, ready to fry when you’re ready.
Freezing the breaded schnitzels is another great option. This way, you can have chicken recipes ready to go, just thaw and fry them. The schnitzel’s flavor and texture stay the same, making it easy to enjoy a delicious recipe with little effort.
“Preparing the chicken and breading in advance is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It takes the stress out of cooking and lets you focus on enjoying the meal with your family.”
With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy the Himmel Chicken Schnitzel whenever you want. It’s all about making preparation easy and letting the chicken recipes come together effortlessly.
nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe
The NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves crispy, flavorful chicken. This classic German dish has tender chicken breasts coated in a golden, crunchy crust. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal.
To make the perfect Himmel Chicken Schnitzel, we’ll follow a few key steps:
- Properly prepare the chicken by pounding it to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Set up separate breading stations for an organized and efficient process.
- Fry the schnitzel in hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side to achieve a perfectly crispy texture.
- Pair the schnitzel with classic German sides like potato salad or sauerkraut, and don’t forget the lemon wedges for a zesty kick.
With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to recreate the delicious nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe in your own kitchen. You’ll bring the flavors of Germany right to your table.
“The secret to the perfect schnitzel is in the preparation and frying technique. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s truly worthy of a nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe.”
Step-by-Step Guide to Breading and Frying
Getting the perfect chicken schnitzel starts with the right technique. We’ll show you how to make that crispy crust. Follow our step-by-step guide to breading and frying the chicken to perfection.
First, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness. This makes them cook evenly and stay tender. Then, set up your breading stations:
- In the first bowl, place all-purpose flour.
- In the second bowl, whisk a few eggs.
- In the third bowl, add breadcrumbs or panko.
Coat each chicken breast in the flour, then in the egg mixture. Finally, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure it’s evenly coated on all sides.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the hot oil. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the skillet to keep the oil temperature steady and ensure even frying.
“The key to perfectly crispy fried chicken is in the technique – pounding the chicken to an even thickness and setting up a proper breading station.”
By following this guide, you’ll make mouthwatering chicken schnitzel. It will have a golden, crunchy crust and juicy, tender meat every time.
Preparing the Creamy Sauce
The perfect Himmel Chicken Schnitzel needs a great sauce. Our creamy sauce is a perfect match for the crispy chicken.
Combining the Ingredients
In a small bowl, we mix ½ cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, one lemon’s juice, and 1 tablespoon of fresh dill. This mix creates a sauce that’s creamy and zesty, balancing the chicken’s richness.
Season the sauce with salt and black pepper. This ensures the flavors blend well. With these simple ingredients, you’ll make a sauce that takes your Himmel Chicken Schnitzel to the next level.
“The secret to a great chicken recipe is in the sauce. This creamy, tangy delight perfectly complements the crispy chicken.”
Making the sauce only takes a few minutes. But it can change how much you enjoy your chicken recipes. Pair it with our perfectly cooked and breaded chicken, and you’ll have a recipe everyone will love.
Serving Plating and Presentation
Our delicious Himmel Chicken Schnitzel is now ready. It’s time to make it look good. The secret to a great presentation is to show off the crispy chicken and creamy sauce.
To start, place the golden chicken schnitzels on plates. The creamy sauce, with sour cream, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill, is a perfect match for the chicken.
Serving it with potato salad or sauerkraut adds a German touch. This mix of tender chicken, tangy sauce, and traditional sides makes for a great meal.
Adding fresh lemon wedges to the plates is a nice touch. The lemon’s citrusy flavor adds a refreshing twist. It also invites guests to squeeze some juice over the chicken for extra taste.
Creating a memorable chicken recipes presentation is all about the details. By carefully arranging the parts and using flavors and textures that work well together, we can make this classic recipe look amazing and taste even better.
Essential Tools and Equipment
To make our delicious Himmel Chicken Schnitzel recipe, we’ll need the right tools and equipment. Having the proper kitchen accessories on hand can make the cooking process easier and more enjoyable. Let’s take a look at the essential items we’ll need for this recipe.
Pounding and Breading Stations
First, we’ll need a sturdy meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and a tender texture. Next, we’ll set up three shallow dishes for our breading stations – one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
Frying and Serving
A large, deep frying pan or skillet is crucial for frying the schnitzel to a golden-brown crispiness. Tongs will make it easy to flip and remove the chicken from the hot oil. Finally, you’ll want a large plate or serving platter to display your beautifully fried Himmel Chicken Schnitzel, and some paper towels on hand for draining any excess oil.
Sauce Preparation
For the creamy sauce that complements the schnitzel so well, you’ll need a small bowl to mix together the sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and fresh dill.
With these essential chicken recipes, equipment, tools, cooking, and recipe items at the ready, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and authentic Himmel Chicken Schnitzel in your own kitchen. Gather your supplies, and let’s get cooking!
Conclusion
We can make delicious Himmel Chicken Schnitzel at home with the right ingredients and techniques. This German dish is sure to become a favorite, offering a cozy and satisfying meal.
By following our guide and mastering breading and frying, we get the perfect chicken schnitzel. Add a creamy sauce, classic German sides, and a zesty lemon wedge. This will take your taste buds on a trip to Bavaria.
This recipe is great for both seasoned cooks and beginners. It helps you improve your cooking and enjoy authentic German flavors. Try it out and share the delicious results with your loved ones.