Name: Classic Wiener Schnitzel Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Austrian
Ingredients: 4 veal cutlets; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup plain breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup oil or clarified butter (for frying); Lemon wedges, for serving; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Classic Wiener Schnitzel Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its crispy texture, delicate flavor, and ease of preparation. The thinly pounded veal ensures a tender bite, while the light breading turns beautifully golden when fried. This dish is elegant enough for entertaining yet quick enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, you can easily adapt it with chicken or pork if veal isn’t available, making it a versatile favorite in any kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Veal cutlets (or pork or chicken cutlets)
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Plain breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper
Oil or clarified butter (for frying)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Directions

Place each veal cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Season both sides of the cutlets with salt and pepper.
Prepare three shallow bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Dredge each cutlet first in flour, shaking off the excess.
Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
Finally, coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere evenly.
In a large skillet, heat oil or clarified butter over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Fry each cutlet for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Pork Schnitzel (Schweineschnitzel): Substitute pork loin for veal for a more affordable version.
Chicken Schnitzel: Use chicken breast cutlets for a lighter alternative.
Herb Crust: Mix finely chopped parsley, thyme, or dill into the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Parmesan Twist: Add a few tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover schnitzel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy. For freezing, separate each schnitzel with parchment paper and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

1. What kind of meat is used in authentic Wiener Schnitzel?

Authentic Wiener Schnitzel is made with veal, but pork or chicken can be used as substitutes.

2. Why is it called “Wiener Schnitzel”?

“Wiener” means “Viennese” in German, indicating that the dish originated in Vienna, Austria.

3. Can I bake Wiener Schnitzel instead of frying?

You can bake it, but traditional schnitzel gets its signature crispness from pan-frying in oil or clarified butter.

4. How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Pat the cutlets dry before dredging, and press the breadcrumbs lightly so they adhere. Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying.

5. What oil is best for frying schnitzel?

Use neutral oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, or use clarified butter for richer flavor.

6. Can I prepare schnitzel ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the cutlets a few hours ahead and refrigerate them before frying.

7. How thin should I pound the meat?

Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness to ensure quick, even cooking and a tender result.

8. What sides go best with Wiener Schnitzel?

Traditional sides include potato salad, cucumber salad, spaetzle, or roasted potatoes.

9. Can I reuse the frying oil?

It’s best not to reuse oil from frying schnitzel, as breadcrumbs tend to burn and affect flavor.

10. Should schnitzel be served with sauce?

Traditionally, it’s served simply with lemon wedges, but you can also add mushroom gravy or lingonberry jam for extra flavor.

Conclusion

The Classic Wiener Schnitzel is a timeless European dish that delivers crispy perfection and tender flavor in every bite. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, it’s a comforting, elegant meal that never fails to impress. Serve it with a squeeze of fresh lemon and your favorite sides for an authentic Austrian dining experience right at home.