Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel

Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a culinary rut, making the same dishes week after week? Well, say goodbye to bland dinners and hello to Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel – it’s sure to become a favorite.

Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, this air-fried twist of an old classic will leave your family asking for more. With minimal prep work and maximum flavor, this is one dish that every home cook should try!​

This is a great recipe for a crispy crust pork schnitzel on a traditional way of a classic meal. 

What Is Pork Schnitzel?​

Pork schnitzel is a popular Austrian dish that consists of a thin slice of pork that is breaded and then fried until golden brown. The pork is typically pounded until it is very thin, which helps tenderize the meat and create a crispy texture when cooked.

The schnitzel is often served with various sides, such as potatoes, vegetables, or a cucumber salad. Various sauces, such as lemon, mushroom, or gravy, can also accompany it. Pork schnitzel is a delicious and filling meal that many people worldwide enjoy.​

Why Cook Pork Schnitzel In Air Fryer

Cooking pork schnitzel in an air fryer is a popular and convenient cooking method that yields a crispy and delicious result. Air fryers use hot air circulation for cooking food, making the schnitzel crispy without deep oil frying.

This cooking method can be a healthier alternative to traditional frying because it uses little to no oil, resulting in a lower fat content. Additionally, using an air fryer can be faster than cooking in a traditional oven and can be more convenient because it requires minimal preheating and cleanup. Overall, cooking pork schnitzel in an air fryer is a great option for those looking for a quick, easy, and healthier cooking method that produces delicious and crispy results.​

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pork Schnitzel Recipe

​Are you looking for a tasty, healthier alternative to fried pork schnitzel? Say hello to air fryer pork schnitzel! This crunchy and flavorful dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be cooked in just minutes. With the help of your air fryer, achieving genuine German-style flavor with minimal oil and calories has never been easier. Here we’ll go over all the ingredients needed to make delicious air fryer pork schnitzel so you can bring this satisfying entrée right into your own home kitchen. So break out that air fryer, grab the recipe below, and let’s start!

​Remember the step-by-step directions are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page, as well as the nutritional information. ​

• Pork Cutlets: Use boneless pork chops, slices of pork tenderloin, or thin pieces of pork
• Sour Cream: For added flavor, use regular sour cream, or substitute for Greek-Yogurt
• Bread Crumbs: Use plain or seasoned bread crumbs
• Seasonings and Spices: Garlic Salt, Paprika, and Black Pepper​

How To Cook Air Fryer Schnitzel Recipe

​Are you a fan of breaded, golden delicious German schnitzel? If so, you’re in luck! Air fryers create this classic dish with little to no added oil and without sacrificing the flavor of the original. This article will show you how to make a tasty schnitzel recipe that is as easy to follow as it is delectable.

You’ll learn all about what ingredients are necessary for this yummy selection, tips on cooking times and temperatures to ensure your food comes out perfectly cooked every time, plus a few different serving ideas for serving up scrumptious meals at lunch or dinner. So grab your air fryer and start making some unforgettable schnitzel!

Step One: Prepare Your Pork Schnitzel Cutlets

Wreap your pork cutlets into a saran wrap or plastic wrap, and then using a meat mallet, pound the pork cutlets until they’re thin pork cutlets, 1/4 to 1/8 thick.

Step Two: Prepare Your Dredging Stations

Mix the bread crumbs, garlic salt, paprika, and black pepper in a small shallow bowl. In the next shallow bowl, add the sour cream. Dip the pork cutlets into the sour cream and then into the breadcrumb mixture. 

Step Three: Air Fry Schnitzel

Spray your air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the breaded pork cutlets into the air fryer basket in a single layer, and set the cooking temperature to 400 degrees F, and set the cooking time for 5-7 minutes. Flip the piece of pork halfway during the cooking process. Remove the breaded pork cutlet in the thickest part of the pork cutlets when the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F, using a meat thermometer.

Step Four:  Serving

Serve with lemon wedges and fresh herbs or spices.

Pro Tips Air frying Pork Schnitzel

Here are some pro tips to help you make the perfect air fryer pork schnitzel:​

• Use thin and even-sized pork chops: This will help the schnitzel to cook evenly and ensure that it gets crispy on the outside while staying tender and juicy on the inside.
• Set up a breading station: Set up three shallow bowls or plates, one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture. Dredge the pork chops in each bowl in that order to create a crispy coating.
• Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before cooking the pork schnitzel. This will ensure the air fryer is at the right temperature and help cook the schnitzel more evenly.
• Spray the pork schnitzels with cooking spray: Before putting them in the air fryer, spray them with cooking spray or use an oil mist to help the coating become crispy.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer: Cook the pork chops in batches if needed, and do not overcrowd the air fryer. This will ensure that the schnitzel cooks evenly and becomes crispy. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the pork chops in batches. 
• Flip halfway through cooking: Flip the pork schnitzel halfway through cooking to ensure that both sides become crispy and evenly cooked.
• Keto Option: If you are looking for a keto substitute for the breadcrumb mixture, a good substitute ground pork ribs, which will give you the same flavor as the breadcrumb coating. 
• Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the pork schnitzel to ensure that it has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) before serving.

​What to serve with pork schnitzel​

Pork schnitzel is a versatile dish that can be served with various sides to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with pork schnitzel:

• Potato dishes: Pork schnitzel pairs well with potato dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, French fries, or German potato salad.
• Vegetables: You can serve pork schnitzel with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables such as green beans, carrots, broccoli, or asparagus.
• Salads: A fresh salad can complement the rich and crispy schnitzel; you can serve it with a simple green salad, cucumber salad, or coleslaw.
• Sauces: You can serve pork schnitzel with various sauces such as lemon wedges, mushroom sauce, mustard sauce, or gravy.
• Bread: Bread is a great side to serve with pork schnitzel, and you can offer bread rolls, breadsticks, or sliced bread on the side.

Overall, the best sides to serve with pork schnitzel are those that complement the crispy and savory flavor of the schnitzel.

​Frequently Asked Questions Air Frying Pork Schnitzel Recipe​

Can I use a different type of meat instead of pork?

Yes, you can use other types of meat, such as chicken or veal, to make schnitzel in the air fryer. However, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the meat.

Do I need to flip the pork schnitzel in the air fryer?

Yes, it’s recommended to flip the pork schnitzel halfway through cooking to ensure both sides become crispy and evenly cooked.

Can I make pork schnitzel ahead of time and reheat it in the air fryer?

Yes, you can make pork schnitzel ahead of time and reheat it in the air fryer for a few minutes until it’s heated through and crispy again.

Do I need to use breadcrumbs to make pork schnitzel in the air fryer?

No, you can use a variety of coatings to make pork schnitzels, such as panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crushed cornflakes. The coating will help to create a crispy texture.

How long does it take to cook pork schnitzel in the air fryer?

Cooking times may vary depending on the pork schnitzel’s thickness and the air fryer’s temperature. Generally, it takes about 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to cook pork schnitzel in the air fryer, flipping halfway through. It’s important to check for doneness using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

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