Chicken Schnitzel is a delightful dish known for its crispy exterior and tender inside. Complementing it with the right side dishes can turn a simple meal into a feast. Here are the best side dishes recommended by chef and food blogger Corrie Cooks that perfectly pair with Chicken Schnitzel, enhancing flavors and adding variety to your plate.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with chicken schnitzel. Boil potatoes until tender, then mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, diced onions, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley. This creamy, tangy salad complements the crispy chicken by adding a soft texture and rich flavors, making every bite satisfying.
Cucumber Salad
Cucumber salad offers a fresh and crisp addition to the meal. Thinly slice cucumbers and toss them with vinegar, oil, salt, and a sprinkle of sugar. Add some sliced onions for extra bite. This salad is especially refreshing and helps to cut through the richness of the fried schnitzel, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Sautéed Spinach
Sautéed spinach is a quick and healthy side that enriches your chicken schnitzel meal with its earthy flavors. Cook fresh spinach leaves in olive oil with garlic until they wilt. Season with salt and a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of brightness. This simple yet flavorful dish adds a nutritious boost and vibrant color to your plate.
Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots are an easy, delicious side that brings a touch of sweetness to pair with the savory schnitzel. Toss whole or sliced carrots with olive oil, salt, and a bit of honey or maple syrup. Roast until they are caramelized and tender. The natural sweetness of the carrots complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic mashed potatoes offer a creamy and comforting side that goes excellently with chicken schnitzel. Boil potatoes until soft, mash them with milk, butter, and roasted garlic for a rich flavor. The smooth, garlicky potatoes are a hearty accompaniment that contrasts nicely with the crispiness of the schnitzel.
Apple Coleslaw
Apple coleslaw adds a unique twist to traditional coleslaw, incorporating fresh apples for a sweet crunch. Mix shredded cabbage and carrots with thinly sliced apples, and toss in a dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. This side dish is refreshing with a slight tang, complementing the fried chicken with its crisp textures.
Red Cabbage Slaw
Red cabbage slaw is vibrant and tangy, perfect for adding a colorful lift to your schnitzel dish. Shred red cabbage and mix with apple cider vinegar, honey, and olive oil for a light dressing. This slaw is not only visually appealing but also provides a crunchy, acidic component that contrasts well with the rich, fried schnitzel.
Steamed Green Beans
Steamed green beans are a light and healthy side that pairs perfectly with chicken schnitzel. Simply steam the beans until they are tender-crisp, then toss with a bit of butter, salt, and freshly ground pepper. This side adds a bright, fresh flavor and a satisfying crunch, offering a nice contrast to the breaded chicken.
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is a flavorful side dish that complements chicken schnitzel with its subtle textures and aromatic spices. Cook rice with onions, garlic, and chicken broth, and toss in a handful of peas or diced carrots for added color and flavor. This side dish is a comforting and hearty option that rounds out the meal beautifully.
Warm German Potato Salad
Warm German potato salad is a savory side that adds a robust flavor to any schnitzel meal. Made with bacon, vinegar, mustard, and onions, this potato salad is served warm and offers a tangy alternative to traditional creamy potato salads. Its rich flavors and warm serving temperature make it a cozy addition to your schnitzel.
Herbed Couscous
Herbed couscous is a light and fluffy side dish that soaks up flavors wonderfully. Cook couscous with chicken broth for extra taste, then stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint. This side is quick to prepare and adds a Mediterranean touch to complement the crispiness of the schnitzel.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms, cooked until golden brown with garlic and herbs, are a flavorful side that enhances the umami flavors in your schnitzel meal. The mushrooms’ meaty texture and rich flavor profile offer a delightful contrast to the light, crispy chicken, adding depth to the dish.
Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Parmesan roasted broccoli combines the fresh, earthy taste of broccoli with a cheesy, crispy topping. Roast broccoli florets with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese until the edges are crispy. This side dish provides a deliciously savory crunch that pairs well with the tender schnitzel.
Buttered Egg Noodles
Buttered egg noodles are a simple, comforting side that complements the textures of chicken schnitzel. Toss cooked egg noodles with butter, parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and adds a soft, buttery component to balance the crispiness of the chicken.
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