If you’re a fan of delicious, crispy chicken dishes, then you’ve probably heard of Himmel’s famous Chicken Schnitzel from Chicago. This iconic dish, featured on NBC Chicago, has captivated food lovers with its perfect blend of crispy coating and tender chicken. Now, you can recreate this beloved recipe in your own kitchen with the NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make this dish, explore its origins, and provide tips on how to perfect it.

What is Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel?

Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel is a dish that has become synonymous with comfort and flavor. Originating from the German tradition of breaded and fried meats, schnitzel has found a home in Chicago, where Himmel’s restaurant has perfected the art of this dish. The NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe highlights the unique preparation methods and ingredients that make this schnitzel stand out from the rest.

If you’re looking to try your hand at this dish, you’re in the right place. We’ll break down each component, from the chicken to the breading, ensuring that you achieve a restaurant-quality schnitzel at home. For those interested in trying other chicken recipes, you might enjoy exploring other chicken dishes that are just as flavorful and satisfying.

The Origin and History of Schnitzel

Schnitzel has its roots in German and Austrian cuisine, where it is traditionally made with veal or pork. The dish became popular in many countries, including the United States, where variations like Chicken Schnitzel have gained popularity. In Chicago, schnitzel has been embraced by many German restaurants, but Himmel’s has elevated it to an art form. The restaurant’s version, which has been shared on NBC Chicago, showcases a modern twist on the classic dish while staying true to its authentic roots.

Why Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel is Unique

What makes Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel truly special is its preparation. Unlike other schnitzel recipes, Himmel’s focuses on achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is tenderized to ensure even cooking, and the breading is carefully seasoned to create a crispy, flavorful crust. Additionally, the use of fresh ingredients and high-quality oil for frying ensures that the schnitzel is not only delicious but also golden and crisp.

For more insights on cooking techniques, you might find the tips in our ultimate chicken cooking guide helpful.

Ingredients Breakdown for Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel

To create the NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe at home, you’ll need to start with the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in the final dish, so it’s important to choose quality ingredients.

Chicken: The Foundation of Schnitzel

The quality of the chicken you use will significantly impact the final dish. For this recipe, chicken breasts are the best choice because they provide a tender, even texture when pounded to the right thickness. It’s essential to tenderize the chicken to ensure it cooks evenly and remains juicy.

Breading: Creating the Perfect Crispy Coating

The breading is where the magic happens. For the best results, use fresh breadcrumbs, preferably made from day-old bread. The breading process typically involves three steps: flouring the chicken, dipping it in beaten eggs, and then coating it with breadcrumbs. This triple-layer process ensures the breading adheres well and fries up crispy.

Seasoning: The Key to Flavorful Schnitzel

To achieve the distinct flavor of Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel, seasoning is crucial. Season the flour with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika to add depth to the breading. Additionally, you can mix some grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

Cooking Oil: Choosing the Right Oil for Frying

Choosing the right oil is essential for frying schnitzel. Himmel’s uses a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil. This ensures that the schnitzel fries evenly without absorbing too much oil, resulting in a light, crispy coating.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making the NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe. Follow these steps carefully to achieve the perfect schnitzel.

1. Preparing the Chicken

• Tenderize the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch thick. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender.
• Season the Chicken: Lightly season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor of the schnitzel.

2. Breading the Chicken

• Flour the Chicken: Dredge the tenderized chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. This first coating helps the egg mixture adhere to the chicken.
• Dip in Egg: Beat the eggs in a shallow dish and dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
• Coat with Breadcrumbs: Press the egg-coated chicken into a plate of breadcrumbs, making sure the breadcrumbs adhere evenly. For extra flavor, mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs.

3. Frying Techniques for the Perfect Schnitzel

• Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
• Fry the Schnitzel: Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy schnitzel.
• Drain and Serve: Once fried, transfer the schnitzel to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately for the best texture.

4. Serving Suggestions

Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Some traditional options include:

• Potato Salad: A classic German potato salad, either warm or cold, complements the schnitzel’s crispy texture.
• Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness of the schnitzel.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, add a hearty element to the meal.

Popular Variations of Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel

While Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Spicy Schnitzel

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture can give your schnitzel a spicy kick. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.

Gluten-Free Schnitzel

If you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Almond flour and crushed gluten-free crackers work well as replacements, providing a similar texture and flavor.

Vegetarian Schnitzel

For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with thick slices of eggplant or cauliflower. These vegetables hold up well to the breading and frying process, offering a satisfying meat-free alternative.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

Although schnitzel is often considered an indulgent dish, it can be made healthier with a few modifications. Here’s how you can enjoy Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel while keeping an eye on your health:

• Use Lean Chicken: Opt for skinless chicken breasts, which are lower in fat and calories compared to other cuts.
• Bake Instead of Fry: For a lower-calorie option, bake the schnitzel instead of frying it. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack for about 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
• Reduce the Oil: If frying, use minimal oil and ensure it’s at the right temperature to avoid the chicken absorbing too much oil.

Nutritional Breakdown

A typical serving of Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel provides:

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams

FAQs About Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel Recipe

What is the best type of oil for frying schnitzel?

The best oils for frying schnitzel are neutral oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

Can I bake the schnitzel instead of frying it?

Yes, baking is a great alternative to frying. To bake schnitzel, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack for about 20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

How do I keep the breading from falling off during frying?

To prevent the breading from falling off, make sure the chicken is well-pounded and dry before breading. Additionally, let the breaded chicken rest for about 10 minutes before frying to allow the coating to adhere better.

What sides go well with chicken schnitzel?

Classic sides include potato salad, cucumber salad, and roasted vegetables. These dishes complement the schnitzel’s flavors and add variety to the meal.

How do I store leftover schnitzel?

Store leftover schnitzel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Conclusion: Mastering Himmel’s Chicken Schnitzel at Home

Recreating the NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe at home is a rewarding experience that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your table. With fresh ingredients, attention to detail, and a few key techniques, you can enjoy this classic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore variations, this schnitzel is sure to impress.

Now that you have the tools and knowledge, it’s time to start cooking. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to make the recipe your own. Happy cooking!