NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe

The NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel recipe is a mouthwatering adaptation of the classic Austrian dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers in the Windy City. This crispy, golden-brown delight features tender chicken breast coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and fried to perfection. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of recreating this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.

How to make NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

The Himmel Chicken Schnitzel, as featured on NBC Chicago, is a testament to the enduring appeal of Austrian cuisine. This dish combines the traditional schnitzel preparation method with a few unique twists that elevate it to new heights. The result is a crispy exterior that gives way to juicy, flavorful chicken inside – a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will impress your family and dinner guests alike.

Ingredients for NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Lemon Butter Sauce:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken:
   Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
2. Set up the breading station:
   Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first, place the flour. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the chicken:
   Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
4. Chill the breaded chicken:
   Place the breaded chicken breasts on a wire rack or plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps the coating stick better during frying.
5. Heat the oil:
   In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the schnitzel:
   Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Drain and keep warm:
   Remove the schnitzel from the oil and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep warm in a low oven while preparing the sauce.
8. Make the lemon butter sauce:
   In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add lemon juice and parsley, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve:
   Place the chicken schnitzel on warm plates and drizzle with the lemon butter sauce. Serve immediately with traditional sides like potato salad, cucumber salad, or spätzle.

Tips for Making the Perfect NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

1. Use fresh chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
2. Pound the chicken evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
3. Don’t skip the chilling step – it helps the breading adhere better.
4. Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F for crispy, golden-brown schnitzel.
5. Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying – work in batches if necessary.
6. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

What to Serve with NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel

1. Traditional German potato salad
2. Cucumber dill salad
3. Spätzle (German egg noodles)
4. Creamy mashed potatoes
5. Braised red cabbage
6. Steamed green beans with almonds
7. Lemon wedges for squeezing

Ingredient Substitutes

Panko Breadcrumbs:
Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but panko provides a crispier texture.

Chicken Breasts:
Turkey cutlets or pork loin can be used for variation.

Vegetable Oil:
Canola oil or peanut oil are good alternatives for frying.

Fresh Parsley:
Dried parsley can be used in the sauce, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.

Final Thoughts

The NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel recipe brings a taste of Austria to your home kitchen. This crispy, flavorful dish is perfect for a special dinner or when you’re craving something comforting yet impressive. With its golden-brown crust and tender chicken interior, topped with a zesty lemon butter sauce, this schnitzel is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. So gather your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delicious taste of Vienna right in your own home!