Shalini Ekanayake is a current Master of Human Nutrition student at Deakin University with hopes of becoming a registered clinical nutritionist upon completion. She has a strong passion for cooking and loves trying her hand at various cuisines and experimenting with all sorts of ingredients! Of all the types of cuisines, her favourites are Italian and of course Sri Lankan cuisine (her family’s culture).

Check out our full range of recipes here.

Healthy Chicken Schnitzel

Shalini’s healthy chicken schnitzel is a great served with a side salad as we head into warmer weather.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken thighs
• 1 cup of panko crumbs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp dijon mustard (30g)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/3 cup wholemeal plain flour (40g)
• 1 tsp mixed dry Italian herbs
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Method:

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel then slice horizontally.
2. Place the chicken between two sheets of baking paper and pound them until they are thin. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare three shallow bowls. In one, mix together the flour, 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. In the second, whisk together the eggs, mustard and olive oil. In the third, add the Panko breadcrumbs.
4. First dip the chicken completely in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip completely in the egg mixture, shaking off any excess. Then lastly, dip in the breadcrumbs, using your fingers to press to ensure the chicken is coated evenly. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
5. Pan fry the schnitzels for 2 minutes each side and then place chicken into air-fryer tray and air fry for 20 minutes
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges to serve!