0 Shares

There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a perfectly cooked schnitzel, especially when it’s partnered with a zesty, spicy dressing that elevates the dish to new heights. The moment I take that first bite of Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel, I’m reminded of family gatherings filled with laughter and shared plates. This recipe is my go-to when craving a comforting meal that packs a punch, thanks to the fiery kick of crushed Calabrian chilis blended into a creamy Caesar dressing.

Picture this: after a long day, the aroma of sizzling chicken fills the air, mingling with hints of garlic and lemon. It’s the perfect antidote to mundane weeknight dinners or rushed takeout. Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, ensuring you’ll impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and join me on this culinary adventure—you’ll soon discover why this crispy delight is sure to become a staple in your home!

Why is this Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel irresistible?

Irresistible Crunch: Experience the delight of schnitzel that’s perfectly golden and crispy, leaving you wanting more.

Bold Flavors: The zesty dressing, infused with crushed Calabrian chilis, takes traditional Caesar to an exciting new level.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner that won’t keep you in the kitchen all evening.

Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it with a side salad or as a sandwich — the possibilities are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This schnitzel is a guaranteed hit at dinner parties or family gatherings, making it a must-try for anyone tired of takeout.

Join the fun and create your own delicious version; you won’t regret trying all the variations you can make with schnitzel!

Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel Ingredients

Get ready to delight your taste buds!

For the Dressing

1 large egg yolk – Adds richness and creates a creamy base for your dressing.
3 cloves fresh garlic, smashed – Infuses the dressing with robust flavor; feel free to adjust for your taste.
2 anchovy filets – Provides a savory depth, enhancing the overall umami profile of the dish.
1½ tsp dijon mustard – Adds a tangy kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
½ lemon zested – Zest brightens the dressing’s flavor, making it fresh and vibrant.
½ lemon juiced – Balances the richness with acidity; adjust to taste.
⅔ Drizzle – A fragrant oil that enhances richness; use something you enjoy flavor-wise!
1 cup parmigiano reggiano, freshly grated with microplane – Adds a nutty, salty depth; fresh is best!
¼ tsp Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the savory notes, bringing everything together.
¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper, plus more to taste – Season to your preference for a slight bite.
Kosher salt, to taste – Essential for balancing flavors; always taste!
3 tbsp crushed Calabrian chilis from a jar – Delivers a spicy punch that elevates this Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel!
1 tbsp water, plus more to thin out dressing to your liking – Adjust the consistency of the dressing as needed.

For the Schnitzel

2 chicken breasts – Perfect for creating those tender, juicy schnitzels.
⅓ cup all-purpose flour – Helps create a crispy outer layer; ensure even coverage.
½ tsp garlic powder, plus more to taste – Enhances the flavor profile; don’t hesitate to add extra!
½ tsp kosher salt, Diamond Crystal, plus more to taste – Essential for seasoning; adjust based on preference.
¼ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste – Adds an understated warmth; adjust to your liking.
2 large eggs, beaten – Acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs to stick.
¾ cups panko breadcrumbs – Creates that irresistible crunch; regular breadcrumbs can be substituted, but panko is highly recommended!

How to Make Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel

Create the Paste: Place anchovies, garlic, and a pinch of salt on a cutting board and finely chop until a paste forms. Transfer the paste to a medium bowl, then add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Set aside for five minutes to meld those flavors.
Whisk the Dressing: Add the egg yolk, lemon zest, juice of ½ a lemon, dijon mustard, and a generous pinch of salt to the bowl. Whisk together until smooth and creamy, creating a perfect base for your dressing.
Emulsify and Season: While whisking, slowly add Drizzle until fully emulsified. Once combined, whisk in the freshly grated parmigiano reggiano, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Calabrian chilis. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t forget to add 1½ tbsp of water to thin the dressing.
Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts between two pieces of parchment paper. Using a mallet, pound the chicken until it’s ½ inch thick. Season both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring every bite is tasty.
Coat the Chicken: Dredge the seasoned chicken first in flour, then in beaten egg, ensuring it’s well-coated. Finally, place the chicken in panko breadcrumbs, gently sprinkling to create a crisp layer.
Fry the Schnitzel: Heat enough oil in a large frying pan about ½-inch deep. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts carefully, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and utterly irresistible. Remove the chicken and place it on a wire rack, topping with flaky salt to finish.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel

Fridge: Store leftover schnitzel in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain its crispy texture.

Freezer: Freeze the breaded schnitzel before frying, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen schnitzel straight from the freezer in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Dressing Storage: Store leftover dressing in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container. Whisk in a bit of water to thin if it thickens too much.

Expert Tips for Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel

Pound Evenly: Ensure the chicken is pounded evenly to ½ inch thick for optimal cooking. This avoids undercooked centers and ensures that your schnitzel is crispy all over.
Proper Dredging Process: Follow the dredging order—flour, egg, then panko. This creates a better crust, so your Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel isn’t soggy.
Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check oil temperature. It should be around 350°F (175°C) to ensure proper frying without greasiness.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to prevent steaming and to achieve that gorgeous crunchy texture. Overcrowding the pan leads to soggy schnitzels!
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and tweak the dressing seasoning before serving. A little extra lemon juice or salt can enhance the flavors beautifully!

Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists for a schnitzel experience that perfectly suits your taste!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs for a deliciously crispy option.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano into the panko breadcrumbs for a fragrant, flavorful twist that brightens every bite.
Cheesy Bliss: Mix shredded mozzarella or smoked gouda directly into the schnitzel’s panko coating for an extra cheesy crunch that will delight your senses.
Spicy Kick: For more heat, incorporate additional crushed Calabrian chilis or substitute them with your favorite hot sauce in the dressing.
Baked Option: Lightly spray the breaded schnitzel with olive oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes for a healthier, equally crispy alternative.
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with eggplant or zucchini slices, following the same breading process for a savory, plant-based schnitzel.
Tropical Twist: Add pineapple tidbits to the dressing for a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices, enhancing every bite.
Rich and Smoky: Stir in some smoked paprika to the seasoning blend for the chicken or into the dressing to add an exciting layer of smokiness that elevates the dish!

What to Serve with Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel?

Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these perfect side options that will bring out the best in your schnitzel.

Crispy Garlic Fries: The crunch and savory flavor beautifully complement the rich schnitzel while providing a satisfying contrast.
Garden Salad: Light greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette refresh the palate and balance the dish’s rich flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies add delightful textures and earthy flavors that enhance your plate.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky, buttery potatoes mix well with the zesty dressing, creating an indulgent comfort meal.
Coleslaw: Crunchy, tangy slaw brightens the schnitzel and adds a refreshing element that lifts your dinner experience.
Toasted Garlic Bread: Ideal for savoring every drop of the luscious dressing, this side elevates your meal while bringing that comforting warmth.
White Wine Spritzer: A light and refreshing drink to cleanse your palate, enhancing the delightful flavors of the schnitzel.
Lemon Sorbet: A light, zesty dessert that acts as a palate cleanser after an indulgent schnitzel dish, leaving you feeling refreshed.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. Additionally, you can pound and bread the chicken breasts a day ahead. Simply cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, heat oil in a pan and fry the schnitzel until golden brown—this will ensure it remains just as delicious as when freshly made. By prepping these components ahead, you can enjoy a delightful dinner with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Spicy Chicken Caesar Schnitzel Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for schnitzel?
Absolutely! For schnitzel, boneless chicken breasts are the best option as they cook quickly and remain tender when pounded to the right thickness. You can use chicken thighs for a juicier result, but ensure they’re deboned and pounded evenly.

How long can I store leftover schnitzel?
You can store leftover schnitzel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it in the oven to keep that delicious crunch intact. Simply preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes.

Can I freeze the schnitzel?
Very! I often freeze the breaded schnitzel before frying it. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, which is key for preventing freezer burn. It can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, just remove it from the freezer and fry as usual—you won’t even need to thaw!

How do I know when my oil is hot enough for frying?
A great question! The oil should ideally be around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can drop a piece of bread into the oil—if it bubbles vigorously and browns within about 60 seconds, your oil is ready for frying the schnitzel. Just remember, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can decrease the oil temperature!

Is there a spicy alternative for anchovies in the dressing?
Definitely! If you’re avoiding fish products or just want a vegetarian kick, you can substitute the anchovies with capers or miso paste for a similar umami flavor. Add a splash of hot sauce to maintain the spicy element, adjusting to taste for your perfect blend.