Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzel Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 4 servings. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted based on the number of servings, though cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, trimmed of fat
• cup seasoned bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• teaspoon ground black pepper
• cup flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Avocado oil cooking spray

Directions

Follow these easy steps to prepare the crispy, air-fried chicken thighs:

1. Place chicken thighs, one at a time, between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a mallet to flatten each piece evenly.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the seasoned bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper. In a separate shallow bowl, place the flour. In a third shallow bowl, beat the egg.
3. Take each chicken thigh and dip it first into the flour, ensuring its well-coated. Next, dip it into the beaten egg. Finally, coat the thigh with the seasoned bread crumbs, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 375F (190C).
5. Place the breaded chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. You may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
6. Lightly mist the chicken with avocado oil spray. Cook the chicken thighs for 6 minutes.
7. After 6 minutes, flip each chicken thigh over, mist it again with avocado oil, and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until golden and crispy.
8. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Information	Amount per Serving
Calories	293
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	117mg
Sodium	927mg
Total Carbohydrate	17g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	24g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	46mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	232mg

Note: The nutrition data provided includes the full amount of breading ingredients. The actual amount of breading consumed will vary.

History and Origins of Schnitzel

Schnitzel is a beloved dish with roots in Central European cuisine, particularly in Austria and Germany. The classic Wiener Schnitzel, made from veal, is one of Austria's most famous dishes, dating back to the 19th century. It was likely inspired by Italian and French cooking techniques, where breaded meat was fried in fat. Over time, this dish spread across Europe, with various countries adapting the recipe to suit local tastes and available ingredients. In the case of chicken schnitzel, a more modern variation, the use of chicken thighs offers a tender, juicy alternative to veal or pork, while still maintaining the essential crispy, golden-brown crust.

Regional Variations

While the traditional Wiener Schnitzel uses veal, many regions have adapted the recipe to include different meats. In Germany, for example, schnitzel is often made with pork (known as Schweineschnitzel). In Israel, schnitzel made with chicken is a staple, and it's served in a variety of ways, often with pita or as a sandwich. In the United States, chicken schnitzel has become increasingly popular, especially with the rise of air frying as a healthier cooking method. The air fryer version, like the one in this recipe, offers a lighter, less greasy alternative to traditional frying, while still delivering the satisfying crunch of breaded chicken.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While schnitzel is similar to other breaded and fried meat dishes, such as chicken fried steak or the French "cotelettes de volaille," it stands out because of its specific breading and frying technique. Schnitzel is typically thinly pounded and coated with a mixture of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, which results in a crisp, light crust that contrasts with the tender meat inside. The air fryer variation offers a healthier option compared to deep-fried versions, making it perfect for those looking for a lower-fat, yet still indulgent, meal. Unlike chicken-fried steak, which uses a heavier batter, schnitzel's coating is typically lighter and crunchier, making it unique in texture and flavor.

Where It's Typically Served

Chicken schnitzel is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of settings. It is often found on restaurant menus in Central Europe, especially in Austria and Germany, where it may be accompanied by traditional sides like potato salad, spaetzle (egg noodles), or lingonberry sauce. In the U.S., chicken schnitzel is sometimes served as a sandwich or in wraps, often paired with a fresh salad or slaw. In Israel, schnitzel is a popular street food, typically served in pita bread with hummus, salad, and tahini. The air fryer version is ideal for a quick family dinner or for serving at casual gatherings, offering a modern twist on a classic dish.

Interesting Facts

• The name "schnitzel" comes from the German word "schnitzen," meaning "to carve or cut," referring to the thinly sliced nature of the meat.
• In Austria, Wiener Schnitzel is traditionally made with veal, but the modern version often uses pork or chicken, depending on the region.
• Although schnitzel is often associated with European countries, similar dishes are found worldwide, such as the Japanese "katsu" (made with pork or chicken) and the Middle Eastern "shwarma," where the meat is often breaded and fried.
• The air fryer has revolutionized the way schnitzel is prepared, reducing the amount of oil needed for frying while still maintaining the beloved crispy crust.

FAQ about Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzel Recipe

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