NBC chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe
As a proud Chicagoan, I remember the smell of sizzling schnitzel. It took me back to the European-style bistros in our city. Himmel’s, a family-owned restaurant in Ravenswood, tells a story of German heritage in Chicago.
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The History of Himmel’s German Restaurant in Chicago
Himmel’s German Restaurant is in the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago. It has been loved for over a century. This family-owned spot shows the lasting German influence on Chicago’s food scene.
German Heritage in Ravenswood
Chicago’s German community started in the mid-1800s. People settled in places like Lincoln Square and North Center. Himmel’s, at 2251 W Lawrence Ave, celebrates this heritage.
The restaurant feels like a family dining room and a lively beer hall. It keeps the traditional German recipes alive, passed down through generations.
Family-Owned Legacy Since Mid-1800s
Himmel’s has been family-owned since the mid-1800s. It has changed over the years but stayed true to its German roots. Today, the fourth generation keeps the restaurant’s promise of quality and authenticity.
Every dish served is a delicious piece of history.
European Bistro Evolution
Himmel’s has mixed its traditional menu with a modern European bistro style. The menu has classic German dishes like schnitzel and bratwurst. It also has new twists and seasonal specials for today’s tastes.
This mix of old and new makes Himmel’s a top spot. It’s perfect for both locals and visitors wanting a real taste of Germany in Chicago.
“Himmel’s has been a Chicago institution for generations, where the flavors of Germany come alive in every bite.”
– Food Critic, Chicago Tribune
Understanding Traditional German Schnitzel Preparation
German chicken schnitzel is a beloved dish known for its crispy, golden-brown breaded cutlet. While veal is traditional, chicken is now a favorite choice. The secret to a great traditional German recipe is in how you prepare it.
To make a true breaded chicken cutlets, start by tenderizing the meat. This is done by pounding it with a meat mallet or rolling it. Then, coat the chicken in a mix of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for a crunchy outside.
Himmel’s signature champignon rahm schnitzel elevates the classic dish. It serves the german chicken schnitzel with a creamy mushroom sauce and spätzle, a traditional German side.
| Preparation Step | Importance |
|---|---|
| Tenderizing the Meat | Ensures a tender, juicy texture |
| Breading the Cutlets | Creates a crispy, golden-brown exterior |
| Frying to Perfection | Achieves the desired crunchiness and flavor |
Mastering these steps will help you make a german chicken schnitzel that wows your guests.
“The secret to a truly authentic breaded chicken cutlet lies in the preparation. It’s all about finding the perfect balance of tender meat and crisp breading.”
Essential Ingredients for NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel Recipe
To make the perfect nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe, you need the right ingredients. These ingredients bring the true taste of German breaded chicken cutlets to life. The key is following chicken snitzel cooking tips that ensure every step is done right.
Meat Selection and Preparation
The base of the nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe is top-notch chicken breasts. These are made tender by pounding and brining. Then, they’re cut into thin slices, ready for breading.
Breading Components
- All-purpose flour for the initial dredging
- Beaten eggs to create a binder for the breadcrumbs
- Freshly seasoned breadcrumbs, often incorporating German spices like caraway, for the crispy coating
Special Seasonings and Spices
The nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe uses special seasonings for that authentic German taste. It includes:
- Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Paprika, both sweet and smoked, for depth of flavor
- Garlic powder and onion powder to complement the other spices
- Traditional German herbs like parsley, dill, and thyme
These ingredients come together to give the nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe its unique taste and texture. It’s a treat for anyone who loves good food.
“The secret to the perfect nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe lies in the balance of flavors and the meticulous preparation of the ingredients. Every step is crucial in achieving that authentic German taste.”
Kitchen Equipment and Tools Needed
To make the delicious chicken snitzel from Himmel’s German Restaurant in Chicago, you’ll need some key tools. This nbc local affiliate recipes guide will help you get everything ready. You’ll be able to make that perfect golden-brown, crispy crust and tender, juicy chicken.
- A sturdy meat mallet or tenderizer is crucial for pounding the chicken breasts to the ideal thickness.
- Shallow dishes or bowls will serve as your breading stations, allowing you to dredge the chicken in flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- A large skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan is essential for achieving the perfect sear and fry on your chicken snitzel.
- A digital meat thermometer is invaluable for ensuring the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
Other tools that might be helpful include a pair of tongs for flipping and handling the fried chicken. Also, a wire rack for draining the cooked chicken snitzel. And a saucepan for making the authentic German mushroom cream sauce to go with your dish.
With the right tools and a bit of practice, you’ll soon be making chicken snitzel like the pros at Himmel’s. Get your equipment ready, and let’s start cooking!
Step-by-Step NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Snitzel Recipe
Get ready to make the famous nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe from Himmel’s German Restaurant. This guide is perfect for both new and experienced cooks. You’ll learn how to get that crispy outside and juicy inside of breaded chicken cutlets.
Meat Tenderizing Techniques
Begin by pounding the chicken breasts lightly. Use plastic wrap or wax paper. This makes the meat even, so it cooks well and stays tender.
Breading Process
- Set up a dredging station with three dishes. One for flour mixed with garlic salt and paprika, another for beaten eggs, and the last for panko breadcrumbs.
- Dip the chicken in the flour, then the eggs, letting any extra egg drip off.
- Press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs to coat it evenly.
Frying Instructions
Heat a lot of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. When the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets. Fry in batches to prevent overcrowding.
Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve with German sides like potato salad or sautéed cabbage. Enjoy the perfect crunch and juiciness!
Authentic German Side Dishes to Serve
Enjoying Himmel’s famous chicken schnitzel calls for classic German side dishes. These dishes add wonderful flavors and complete the himmel german restaurant menu experience.
Spätzle, small, chewy egg noodles, are a favorite. They match the schnitzel’s tenderness and crunchiness. Himmel’s kitchen also offers a creamy potato salad. It’s a cool, tangy contrast to the hot schnitzel.
- Sauerkraut (fermented cabbage) adds a tart, crunchy touch.
- Red cabbage is vibrant and slightly sweet, making it a popular choice.
- Soft, warm pretzels are a must. They bring a touch of authenticity to the meal.
These side dishes enhance Himmel’s chicken schnitzel’s flavors. They take you straight to the heart of German cuisine. Enjoy this mix of crispy, savory, and comforting tastes for a real German dining experience.
Himmel’s Special Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe
Make your nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe even better with Himmel’s mushroom cream sauce. This sauce is a perfect match for the crispy, golden traditional german recipe chicken schnitzel.
Champignon Rahm Preparation
Start by cooking fresh mushrooms like cremini, portobello, and shiitake in butter. Let them get caramelized to bring out their flavors. Then, add white wine to the pan to get all the tasty bits from the bottom.
After that, mix in heavy cream and let it simmer until it’s smooth and creamy. Add herbs like thyme, parsley, and garlic for extra flavor. Make sure the taste is just right.
Sauce Consistency Tips
- For a thinner sauce, add more cream or stock.
- For a creamier sauce, simmer it a bit longer.
- Stir in cornstarch or flour if you need to thicken it more.
The secret to a great mushroom cream sauce is balancing the mushrooms’ earthy taste with the cream’s richness. Pour the champignon rahm over your nbc chicago himmel chicken snitzel recipe. It will make every bite a delight.
Wine and Beer Pairing Suggestions
At Chicago’s Himmel’s Restaurant, pairing drinks with german chicken schnitzel is an art. This German spot in the Windy City knows how to match their chicago restaurant recipes with the best drinks.
For a top german chicken schnitzel meal, Himmel’s suggests German and Austrian beers. These beers are crisp and refreshing. They have a nice balance of malt and hops that pairs well with the chicken.
They also recommend dry, aromatic white wines. A Riesling or Grüner Veltliner can enhance the chicago restaurant recipes. These wines have bright acidity and fruity notes that cut through the schnitzel’s richness.
At Himmel’s, you can choose between beer or white wine. Their staff is ready to help you find the best match for your german chicken schnitzel. With their knowledge of German cuisine and drink pairing, you’ll find the perfect drink for your meal.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Keeping your NBC Chicago Himmel chicken schnitzel crispy is key. Store the breaded cutlets and mushroom cream sauce separately. This way, you can enjoy your chicken snitzel like a pro.
Proper Storage Methods
After enjoying your homemade chicken schnitzel, store the leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the cutlets crispy. Keep the sauce in a separate container to avoid moisture issues.
Reheating Techniques
Don’t microwave your leftover chicken snitzel. Use the oven or air fryer to get it crispy again. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes. Or, use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway.
To reheat the mushroom cream sauce, gently warm it on the stovetop. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth. This way, the sauce will still be rich and creamy when you serve it with your chicken snitzel.
“The key to enjoying leftover chicken schnitzel is all in the storage and reheating techniques. Follow these simple guidelines, and you’ll be able to savor the crispy, flavorful dish for days to come.”
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When you try to make the NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Schnitzel recipe, watch out for common mistakes. One big one is not pounding the meat evenly before breading. If it’s not even, some parts will cook faster, making the texture bad.
Another mistake is frying too much schnitzel at once. This lowers the oil temperature, making the breading soggy and greasy. Keep the oil between 350-375°F for a crispy exterior like Himmel’s.
Also, using oil that’s not hot enough is a problem. It makes the breading absorb too much oil, becoming heavy and dense. Follow these chicken snitzel cooking tips to make a delicious NBC Chicago Himmel Chicken Snitzel at home.
