There’s a certain comfort in the sound of chicken sizzling in hot oil, a sound that instantly transports me back to family dinners filled with laughter and love. When I first tried Matt Preston’s homestyle chicken schnitzel, I knew I’d discovered a recipe that captured the essence of what’s special about home-cooked meals. With a crispy breadcrumb coating, perfectly seasoned chicken, and a refreshing coleslaw on the side, this dish is as delightful to eat as it is to prepare.
Imagine the golden-brown schnitzels, glistening with olive oil, paired with the vibrant crunch of cabbage, carrots, and a hint of sweetness from currants. This meal isn’t just a feast for the belly; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brighten any day. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next dinner party or simply craving a comforting dish after a long day, this schnitzel recipe promises to elevate your weeknight dinner routine. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this culinary adventure that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Why is Matt Preston’s homestyle chicken schnitzel a must-try?
Crispy Coating: The golden breadcrumb crust is perfectly crunchy, creating an irresistible texture that pairs beautifully with tender chicken.
Flavors of Home: With a thoughtful blend of parmesan and lemon zest, every bite offers comforting, familiar flavors that remind you of family gatherings.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it a time-saving choice for busy weeknights.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with the refreshing coleslaw or customize with your favorite sides. It’s ideal for any occasion!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or friends, this schnitzel will have everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t miss out on this delightful dinner idea to brighten your culinary repertoire!
Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel Ingredients
Discover what makes this dish a standout!
For the Schnitzels
- Woolworths RSPCA Approved Chicken Breast Fillets – Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Fresh breadcrumbs – Use homemade breadcrumbs for an extra crunch that enhances the texture of the schnitzel.
- Finely grated parmesan – This adds a delightful nuttiness and elevates the overall taste of the breadcrumb coating.
- Finely grated zest of 1 lemon – A splash of brightness that cuts through the richness, enhancing the schnitzel’s flavor.
- Flat-leaf parsley leaves – Adds freshness and color; you can substitute with other herbs if desired.
- Egg, lightly beaten – Acts as a binder to keep the breadcrumb coating intact.
- Milk – Adds moisture to the egg wash, ensuring an even coating.
- Plain flour – Dusting the chicken helps the egg wash stick, creating a perfect crunch.
- Olive oil – Essential for shallow-frying; makes the schnitzel golden and crispy.
For the Coleslaw
- Savoy cabbage, finely shredded – Offers a tender and sweet crunch that complements the schnitzel perfectly.
- Carrot, finely shredded – Adds sweetness and color to the coleslaw; feel free to add red cabbage for extra vibrancy.
- Red onion, thinly sliced – Adds a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the sweet crunch of cabbage.
- Whole-egg mayonnaise – Binds the coleslaw together; you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Flat-leaf parsley, picked leaves – Freshens up the slaw, providing a bright pop of flavor.
- Currants – Add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory schnitzel beautifully.
This comprehensive ingredients list is designed to guide you smoothly through preparing Matt Preston’s homestyle chicken schnitzel, ensuring it becomes a cherished addition to your dinner table!
How to Make Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel
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Prepare the Chicken: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to beat the halved chicken fillets between two pieces of plastic wrap until they are nice and flat; this will ensure even cooking.
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Mix the Coating: In a bowl, combine fresh breadcrumbs with finely grated parmesan, lemon zest, and finely chopped flat-leaf parsley. Season it generously with freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.
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Create the Egg Wash: In another bowl, whisk together the lightly beaten egg and milk. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
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Coat the Chicken: Dust each chicken fillet with plain flour, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to set.
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Make the Coleslaw: In a separate bowl, mix the finely shredded savoy cabbage, carrot, and sliced red onion. Add just enough whole-egg mayonnaise to bind it together, then let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to soften.
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Cook the Schnitzels: Heat about 2cm of olive oil in a frypan over medium heat. In batches, fry the schnitzels for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towel and keep warm.
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Assemble the Dish: Toss the coleslaw with fresh parsley leaves and currants. Pile the coleslaw onto plates, top with the golden schnitzels, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh twist.
Optional: For a zesty kick, serve with a dollop of lemon aioli on the side.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel?
When it comes to creating a memorable dining experience, finding the right side dishes can elevate Matt Preston’s succulent schnitzel into a melodic masterpiece of flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture contrasts beautifully with the crispy schnitzel, making every bite a satisfying delight. Pair with some garlic for an extra kick!
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, these golden fries provide a sweet counterpoint to the savory schnitzel.
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Zesty Lemon Rice: Flavored with herbs and bright lemon juice, this rice dish complements the schnitzel’s richness while adding a refreshing twist to your plate.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic are a colorful and vibrant side that adds both nutrition and elegance to your schnitzel feast.
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Refreshing Tzatziki Sauce: A cool cucumber-yogurt dip balances the crunchy schnitzel beautifully, elevating your meal with a burst of yogurt freshness.
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Seasoned Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa tossed with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing works great as a healthful yet delicious counterpart to the schnitzel.
With these delightful pairings, your table will be bursting with a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for more!
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Matt Preston’s homestyle chicken schnitzel are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the chicken fillets up to 24 hours in advance by breading them and then refrigerating them until you’re ready to fry. Also, you can make the coleslaw up to 3 days ahead; simply prepare the cabbage, carrot, and onion, mix in the mayonnaise, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the schnitzels for a few minutes in a hot pan and toss the coleslaw with fresh parsley and currants. This way, you’ll have a delightful meal ready with minimal effort—just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
Matt Preston’s homestyle chicken schnitzel Variations
Feel free to add your own unique touch to this delightful dish!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to ensure everyone at the table can enjoy this meal without worry.
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a flavorful kick. This extra heat complements the schnitzel beautifully!
- Herb-Crusted: Swap the parsley with fresh thyme or oregano for a different herbaceous flavor that can really brighten the dish.
- Lemon Garlic: Incorporate minced garlic into the breadcrumb mixture, and serve with a lemon garlic aioli for a zesty dip. It elevates the dish with aromatic flavors!
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese with the breadcrumbs for a gooey surprise in each bite. This cheesy twist will delight your guests!
- Colorful Slaw: Add grated beets or sliced apples to your coleslaw for an interesting twist on texture and flavor. These additions provide a beautiful pop of color too!
- Crispy Texture: For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the breadcrumb mix. They bring a wonderful depth to the schnitzel’s texture.
- Asian-Inspired: Use sesame seeds in the breadcrumb coating and serve with a ginger-soy dipping sauce for a creative fusion of flavors sure to impress!
How to Store and Freeze Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel
Fridge: Store leftover schnitzel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked schnitzels for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, place the thawed schnitzels in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep that delightful crunch.
Coleslaw Storage: The coleslaw can be stored separately in the fridge for about 2 days. Mix in fresh parsley and currants just before serving for the best flavor.
Expert Tips for Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel
- Quality Chicken: Choose RSPCA Approved chicken fillets for better texture and taste. It makes a huge difference in your schnitzel.
- Chill for Success: Remember to chill the coated schnitzels for 30 minutes. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere better during frying.
- Watch the Heat: Fry at medium heat; if the oil is too hot, the schnitzels may burn before cooking thoroughly.
- Homemade Breadcrumbs: Try making your own breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating. Just toast stale bread, then blitz!
- Don’t Skip Seasoning: Season all layers—chicken, flour, and breadcrumbs. It enhances the flavor of Matt Preston’s homestyle chicken schnitzel.
Matt Preston’s Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect chicken for the schnitzel?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, look for RSPCA Approved chicken breast fillets. These will ensure you’re getting high-quality meat for your meal. Additionally, try to select fillets that are uniformly thick; this helps them cook evenly and avoid dryness.
What’s the best way to store leftover schnitzels?
Store leftover schnitzel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping it properly sealed helps maintain its delicious flavor and texture, making sure you can enjoy the leftovers as much as the first serving!
Can I freeze Matt Preston’s homestyle chicken schnitzel?
Very! For longer storage, freeze the cooked schnitzels for up to 3 months. Here’s how: first, wrap each schnitzel tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy and heated through.
How do I keep my schnitzels crisp when reheating?
I recommend avoiding the microwave for reheating, as this can make your schnitzels soggy. Instead, place them in a preheated oven, as mentioned earlier; this method revives their crunchiness wonderfully. If you have an air fryer, it’s also a fantastic option to maintain that crispy texture!
What are some allergy considerations for this recipe?
While this recipe is generally gluten- and dairy-friendly, those with allergies should be mindful of the ingredients. You can substitute the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free variety and use a plant-based milk to make it dairy-free. Always read labels for any pre-packaged ingredients to ensure safety!
Can I make the coleslaw ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just mix the cabbage, carrot, and onion with the mayonnaise but store the parsley and currants separately. This allows you to mix them in fresh right before serving, ensuring the salad maintains its delightful crunch and flavor!
Matt Preston's Homestyle Chicken Schnitzel Perfect for Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to beat the halved chicken fillets between two pieces of plastic wrap until flat.
- In a bowl, combine fresh breadcrumbs with finely grated parmesan, lemon zest, and parsley. Season with black pepper.
- Whisk together the beaten egg and milk in another bowl to create the egg wash.
- Dust each chicken fillet with plain flour, dip into the egg wash, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Chill for 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix the finely shredded savoy cabbage, carrot, and sliced red onion. Add enough mayonnaise to bind.
- Heat about 2cm of olive oil in a frypan over medium heat. Fry the schnitzels for 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Toss the coleslaw with parsley leaves and currants, then serve the schnitzels with coleslaw and lemon wedges.