Photo Credit: Sina Mizrahi

Obviously, deeply golden fried schnitzel eaten hot three minutes post-oil bath is the ultimate treat — but there are days when baking schnitzel is more practical and sensible. I usually like using the oven’s broil option for the cutlets, mimicking the high heat from a deep fry and aiming for ultimate crispiness. However, I wondered if using regular high heat would result in a better result. So I prepared my schnitzel as I always do (yes, I skip dredging in flour; I find it unnecessary) and baked one batch at 450°F (230°C), and the other under the broiler.

• 2 lb (1 kg) thin chicken cutlets
• 2 extra-large eggs
• 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 5 cloves garlic, minced, or 1 tsp granulated garlic
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1½ cups bread crumbs

Generously spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, combine eggs, mustard, garlic, and salt; add cutlets and mix to coat.

Pour bread crumbs into a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken cutlet into bread crumbs, pressing firmly to adhere.

Arrange on prepared baking sheet and spray generously with more cooking spray.

Method 1:

Heat oven to 450°F (230°C). Bake cutlets on middle rack for 10 minutes, flip, and bake another 10 minutes or until browned and crisp.

Method 2:

Heat oven to broil. Broil cutlets on middle rack for 5 minutes, flip, and broil another 5 minutes or until browned and crisp.

My Verdict

Both batches had a good texture despite the faux-fry, but the batch that was cooked at 450°F (230°C) was more evenly browned, whereas the broiled cutlets had burnt edges and a more uneven color. I recommend baking them since it’s more reliable and requires less supervision, plus it comes out delicious.

(Originally featured in Family Table, Issue 800)