Viennese fried chicken has a history that goes back to the 18th century, when it was in vogue as a dish for the aristocracy and upper classes. Serve backhendl with lemon wedges and parslied potatoes, potato salad or a tossed green salad. Backhendl is popular in Munich as a dish served at Oktoberfest celebrations. Also known as Backhähnchen or poulet frit à la viennoise.
Wiener Backhendl
Course: PoultryCuisine: Austria, Germany4 to 6
servingsViennese fried chicken goes back to the 18th century when it was in vogue as a dish for the aristocracy. Serve backhendl with lemon wedges, parslied potatoes and a tossed green salad.
Ingredients
Chicken, cut into serving pieces — 3 pounds
Lemon juice — 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper — to season
Flour — 1 cup
Eggs, beaten with a little water — 2
Breadcrumbs — 1 1/2 cups
Oil for deep frying
Directions
- Toss the chicken in a large bowl with the lemon juice, salt and pepper. Set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Put the flour in one bowl, the eggs in another bowl and the breadcrumbs in a third bowl. One at a time, dip the chicken pieces first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally in the breadcrumbs to coat. Set the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet to let the coating set.
- Heat about 2 inches of oil to 375°F in a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Deep fry the chicken pieces for 10 minutes, turning to brown both sides.
- Reduce heat to low and continue to cook for another 20 minutes, turning often. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Wiener Backhendl Notes and Variations
- Finishing in the Oven: After browning, remove the chicken pieces to a rack-lined baking sheet and finish cooking in a 350°F oven for about 20 to 25 minutes.
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