Description
A healthier, faster alternative to traditional deep-fried schnitzel, this recipe uses an air fryer to create a shatteringly crisp, golden crust on tender pork cutlets with minimal oil.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless pork loin cutlets (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
- 1.5 cups (150g) panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil or avocado oil cooking spray
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, mixed into flour)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the pork: If cutlets are thick, pound them between plastic wrap to 1/4 inch thickness. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Set up the breading station: Prepare three shallow dishes with flour, beaten eggs (with water), and panko breadcrumbs. Mix paprika into flour if using.
- Bread the cutlets: Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg mixture, then press firmly into panko breadcrumbs, coating both sides. Place on a clean plate.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Cook the schnitzel: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place two cutlets in the basket without touching. Spray tops generously with oil. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Flip and finish: Open basket, flip cutlets using tongs, and spray newly exposed side with oil. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest and serve: Remove schnitzel and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the basket to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness. Spray both sides of the cutlets generously with oil for a golden crust. Pound pork evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Resting on a wire rack prevents the bottom from getting soggy. Pork is safe to eat at 145°F.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cutlet per serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: air fryer pork schnitzel, healthy dinner, crispy pork, air fryer recipes, german food, quick dinner, gluten-free option