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Overhead shot of two breaded pork schnitzels, one with lemon wedge and parsley, the other plain.

German Pork Schnitzel

Pounded pork cutlets are breaded and fried until golden brown in this German pork schnitzel recipe, served with lemon wedges and parsley.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine German
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless pork chops lightly pounded to ½-inch thick cutlets; you can also buy cutlets if your grocer carries them
  • 2 teaspoons salt divided
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper divided
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour 120g
  • 2 cups regular breadcrumbs 240g
  • 4 large eggs
  • Vegetable or canola oil for frying
  • For serving: lemon wedges, fresh chopped parsley garnish

Instructions
 

  • Pound Pork Chops:

    Dry the pork chops with paper towels and place them inside a resealable plastic bag, leaving about an inch open for air to escape. Using the smooth side of a meat mallet, gently pound them to about ½ inch thickness. As an alternative, use pre-thin pork cutlets if your store carries them (they need no pounding).
  • Set Up Breading:

    Prepare a breading station: in a shallow dish, mix flour with 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper; in a second dish, beat the eggs; in a third dish, pour the breadcrumbs.
  • Bread the Cutlets:

    Bread the pork: pat each piece dry, then dredge in flour, dip in egg (ensuring full coverage), and coat with breadcrumbs, shaking off any excess after each step. Stack the breaded cutlets on a plate, separating layers with parchment paper. Allow them to rest for 10-15 minutes.
  • Heat the Oil:

    In a large skillet or deep pot, heat about ¼ to ½ cup of oil until it sizzles when you sprinkle a few drops of water or breadcrumbs into it.
  • Fry Until Golden:

    Place a piece of pork into the hot oil without overcrowding (2-3 pieces in a 12-inch skillet, not touching). Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until deep golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat with the remaining pork. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (65°C) on a meat thermometer.
  • Garnish and Serve:

    Sprinkle with fresh minced parsley and serve with lemon wedges. For a complete meal, accompany with fried potatoes and a large green salad.
Keyword german pork schnitzel, pork chops