Are you staring at your crispy, golden chicken schnitzel wondering what to pair it with? You’re not alone! I’ve been there too – that moment when you’ve made a perfect schnitzel but need the perfect side dish to complete your meal.
Chicken schnitzel is basically breaded, fried chicken cutlets that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside But serving it alone is like wearing amazing shoes with a terrible outfit – it just doesn’t work!
In this article, I’ll share my favorite sides that complement chicken schnitzel perfectly. From traditional German-inspired sides to lighter options, I’ve got you covered with 27 delicious ideas that’ll make your schnitzel shine!
Traditional Sides for Chicken Schnitzel
When serving chicken schnitzel some sides are just classics for a reason
1. German Potato Salad
This isn’t your typical mayo-heavy American potato salad. German potato salad uses vinegar, oil, mustard, and herbs for a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of schnitzel. It’s traditionally served warm and has a bright acidic taste that balances the breaded chicken perfectly.
2. Sauerkraut
Nothing says “authentic” like serving schnitzel with sauerkraut! This fermented cabbage dish adds a tangy crunch that complements the crispy coating of the schnitzel. I love how the acidity cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.
3. Potato Pancakes
Also known as latkes, these crispy, golden discs of potato goodness are a perfect match for schnitzel. The double crunch factor is amazing! Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce on the side.
4. Red Cabbage Slaw
This vibrant purple side adds beautiful color to your plate! The slightly sweet and tangy flavor profile works wonders with schnitzel. I usually add a bit of apple to mine for extra sweetness.
Potato-Based Sides
Potatoes and schnitzel are besties, and here’s why:
5. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
There’s something magical about cutting into crispy schnitzel and then taking a bite with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. The contrast between crunchy and smooth is divine! Add some garlic for an extra flavor boost.
6. Scalloped Potatoes
These thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy sauce are indulgent but so worth it. The crisp schnitzel with the soft, cheesy potatoes creates a perfect texture contrast.
7. Pan-Fried Potatoes
Simple but effective! Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside – these potatoes mirror the textures in your schnitzel for a harmonious plate.
8. Sweet Potato Fries
For a healthier twist, try sweet potato fries! The sweetness pairs surprisingly well with the savory schnitzel. I like to season mine with paprika for a little kick.
9. Potato Fritters
Similar to pancakes but usually with added ingredients like onions or cheese. They’re crispy, flavorful, and absolutely delicious alongside schnitzel.
Fresh Salads and Veggies
Balance out that fried goodness with something light and fresh:
10. Cucumber Salad
A simple cucumber salad with vinegar, dill, and a touch of sugar is refreshing and light – the perfect counterpoint to hearty schnitzel.
11. Tossed Green Salad
Sometimes simple is best! A basic green salad with a light vinaigrette lets the schnitzel remain the star while adding freshness to your meal.
12. Tomato Salad
Fresh tomatoes with basil, olive oil, and a splash of balsamic vinegar make for a juicy, bright side that cuts through the richness of fried food.
13. Coleslaw
The creamy, crunchy nature of coleslaw makes it a natural partner for schnitzel. The cold, crisp texture is especially nice in summer.
Vegetable Sides for Chicken Schnitzel
Add some nutrients and color to your plate:
14. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
The slightly caramelized, nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs wonderfully with schnitzel. A little crispy on the outside, tender inside – they mirror the schnitzel’s texture profile!
15. Creamed Spinach
Rich and creamy spinach is a classic steakhouse side, but it works just as well with schnitzel. The iron-rich greens balance the meal nutritionally too.
16. Sautéed Green Beans
Simple green beans sautéed with a bit of garlic and butter are never a bad choice. They add color and a fresh crunch to your plate.
17. Steamed Broccoli Florets
For a super simple and healthy option, steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon juice works great. The bright green color makes your plate look more appealing too!
18. Fried Zucchini
If you’re in a “fry everything” mood, zucchini strips coated in the same breading as your schnitzel make for a cohesive meal.
19. Asparagus
Whether roasted, steamed, or grilled, asparagus adds elegance to your schnitzel. I prefer mine with a little lemon zest and olive oil.
20. Carrots
Glazed carrots add a sweet element that contrasts nicely with the savory schnitzel. Plus, the bright orange color makes your plate look even more appetizing!
Pasta and Rice Options
Carbs are life, especially with schnitzel:
21. Buttered Noodles
Simple egg noodles tossed with butter and maybe a sprinkle of parsley are a traditional accompaniment to schnitzel in many households.
22. Pasta Salad
A cold pasta salad with plenty of veggies and a vinaigrette dressing can be prepared ahead of time, making dinner service easier.
23. Rice
Plain white rice or a pilaf can soak up any gravy or sauce you might serve with your schnitzel. It’s simple but effective!
24. Quinoa Salad with Dried Cranberries and Pine Nuts
For a more modern, nutritious option, try a quinoa salad. The nuttiness of quinoa with sweet cranberries creates a delightful contrast to the schnitzel.
Sauces to Serve with Chicken Schnitzel
A good sauce can elevate your schnitzel to new heights:
25. Mushroom Gravy
A rich, earthy mushroom gravy is perfect for pouring over schnitzel and mashed potatoes for a comfort food extravaganza.
26. Lemon-Garlic Sauce
Bright and zingy, a lemon-garlic sauce cuts through the richness of the fried coating and adds a fresh element to each bite.
27. Honey Mustard Sauce
The sweet-tangy combination works surprisingly well with schnitzel, especially if you’re serving it to kids who might appreciate the milder flavor.
Quick Tips for Serving Chicken Schnitzel
- Temperature contrast: Serve hot schnitzel with cold sides like coleslaw or cucumber salad for an interesting temp difference.
- Texture balance: Pair crispy schnitzel with something creamy (like mashed potatoes) and something fresh (like a salad) for textural variety.
- Color consideration: Add colorful sides to brighten up your plate – schnitzel is golden brown, so think greens, reds, and oranges to complement it.
- Acid elements: Include something acidic (vinegar-based sides or lemon) to cut through the richness of the fried coating.
My Go-To Chicken Schnitzel Meal
When I make schnitzel at home, my absolute favorite combination is:
- Crispy chicken schnitzel
- German potato salad (warm)
- Quick cucumber salad
- Lemon wedges for squeezing
This gives me the perfect balance of warm and cold, crispy and soft, rich and acidic. It’s a winner every time!
Final Thoughts
Chicken schnitzel might be the star of the show, but the supporting cast of side dishes can turn a good meal into an amazing one. Whether you prefer traditional German-inspired sides or want to lighten things up with fresh vegetables, there’s a perfect schnitzel pairing for everyone.
What’s your favorite side to serve with chicken schnitzel? I’d love to hear your combinations in the comments below!
Happy cooking, and even happier eating!
Southern Potato Salad
This one was new to me until Oma introduced it. A warm potato salad, or kartoffelsalat ohne mayo, is a favorite down in Southern Germany.
Omas tomato salad, Tomatensalat, is such a refreshing treat. It goes with just about anything, and the color is pure summer in a bowl.
I even love scooping it onto tortilla chips like a salsa. The balsamic vinegar gives it a little kick, and the fresh tomatoes are unbeatable.
Next up, let’s dive into some carb and potato sides. Potatoes are a big deal in German cooking. Boiled, mashed, rolled, or baked, they find a way onto just about every plate.
From Oma’s heart to your table
Complete your set today – order now!
Next up, a family favorite.
Molly Yeh Makes Chicken Schnitzel | Girl Meets Farm | Food Network
FAQ
What is a good side dish for schnitzel?
The best sides for schnitzel include traditional European staples like potato salad, mashed potatoes, spaetzle, and braised red cabbage, as well as French fries, simple green salads with vinaigrette, and cucumber salad for a lighter option. The best accompaniment often depends on the desired meal, from a hearty potato and cabbage-based meal to a fresher, lighter alternative.
What goes with chicken schnitzel for dinner?
The best sides for schnitzel are mashed potatoes, cucumber salads, parsley potatoes, potato salad, arugula salads, and braised cabbage.
What do Austrians eat with schnitzel?
The Schnitzel is cooked after it turns golden yellow or brown. The dish was traditionally served in Austria with butterhead lettuce tossed with a sweetened vinaigrette dressing, optionally with chopped chives or onions, potato salad, cucumber salad, or parsley potatoes. In recent times french fries have become common.
Is schnitzel better with potatoes or noodles?
Much to my surprise, the Viennese do not eat their schnitzel with noodles; instead, they eat it with potatoes — fried, boiled or as a salad.