How to Make Perfectly Crispy Pork Schnitzel on the BBQ

Schnitzel is a thin, breaded and fried cutlet that originated in Austria and Germany. While it is traditionally pan-fried, you can also make amazingly crispy pork schnitzel on the barbecue with a bit of technique.

Cooking schnitzel on the BBQ requires paying close attention to ensure the breading gets crispy rather than soggy. But the smoky flavor from the grill takes this dish to the next level. Follow these tips for barbecue pork schnitzel success.

Why Make Schnitzel on the BBQ?

There are a few advantages to grilling rather than frying schnitzel

• You avoid heating up your kitchen by frying.
• The smoky flavor adds depth.
• It’s easier to cook large batches, like for a party.
• Pork drippings flavor whatever else you are grilling.
• Cleanup is simpler without dealing with a vat of hot oil.

However, the open grill makes it harder to achieve an ultra-crispy crust. With some care, you can get delicious results.

Choosing the Right Pork

Opt for boneless pork chops or cutlets around 1/4-1/2 inch thick. The thin meat cooks quickly and evenly.

The best cuts like loin or ribeye have enough fat to stay juicy without flaring up too much on the grill. Avoid lean chops like sirloin which dry out.

Set Up the BBQ for Success

The right barbecue setup ensures the breading gets crispy rather than soggy:

• Use a hot grill. Sear over direct high heat, around 400-450°F.

• Oil the grates well. This prevents sticking.

• Put a drip pan underneath. This avoids flare-ups from drippings.

• Use tongs for flipping. A spatula presses out the breading.

• Close the lid between flips. This helps the breading set.

Bread and Season the Pork

First, pound the pork to an even 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness. Season well with salt, pepper, and any other spices desired.

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. For ultra-crispness, use very fine breadcrumbs rather than large panko.

Dip pork first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Press the crumbs into the pork well to help them adhere. Refrigerate breaded cutlets for about 15-30 minutes before grilling.

Grill Your Schnitzel

Follow these steps for perfect barbecue pork schnitzel:

• Sear 2-3 minutes per side over direct high heat. Resist the urge to move them too soon or the breading can pull off.

• Flip carefully with tongs. Don’t press down on the meat, which can make the breading soggy.

• After flipping once, move over indirect heat, close lid, and grill 5-8 minutes more, flipping once midway. This helps the breading set up.

• Check the internal temperature to ensure the pork reaches 145°F for food safety.

• Optionally, brush with melted butter or oil after cooking for extra browning and sheen.

Serving Suggestions

Traditional accompaniments to schnitzel include:

• Spaetzle or egg noodles
• Cucumber salad or slaw
• Lemon wedges
• Lingonberry jam

Or try fun variations like schnitzel sandwiches, schnitzel tacos, or schnitzel banh mi.

More Tips for Great Grilled Schnitzel

• If breading falls off, dust again and return to grill.

• Try crushed cornflakes for the coating rather than breadcrumbs.

• Add herbs like parsley or paprika to the breading.

• Make a pan sauce from the drippings for serving.

• butterfly thicker chops before breading to ensure even cooking.

• Let schnitzel rest 5 minutes after grilling for juicier meat.

With attention to detail, you can achieve the same crispy, juicy schnitzel from the grill as the frying pan. Ditch the oil splatters in your kitchen and enjoy this classic in a new way. Just be prepared for requests for seconds!

The smoky flavor and fun of grilling take this pork cutlet recipe over the top. Crispy, tender, delicious barbecue schnitzel is truly finger-licking good.

Other Delicious Pork to Grill

If you like cooking pork on the barbecue, try these other great recipes:

BBQ Pork Chops – Well-seasoned bone-in or boneless chops

Smoked Pork Tenderloin – Wrapped in bacon for extra flavor

Jerk Pork Kebabs – Infused with Jamaican jerk spices

Pepper Bacon-Wrapped Pork Loin – Sweet and spicy rubbed tenderloin

Hoisin-Glazed Ribs – Asian-inspired baby back ribs

The possibilities are endless for making amazing grilled pork dishes. Fire up your barbecue and get ready for your new go-to pork recipe. Schnitzel and beyond!