Air Fryer Schnitzel with Sweet and Sour Cabbage is a lighter take on a German-inspired classic. Crispy, juicy schnitzel is cooked to perfection in the air fryer and paired with tangy-sweet braised red cabbage for a flavorful, balanced meal.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Air Fryer
Cuisine:German
Ingredients
4 boneless pork chops or chicken cutlets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup plain breadcrumbs or panko
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Cooking spray or oil for air fryer
1 small head red cabbage, thinly sliced
1 apple, peeled and grated or chopped
1 medium onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves or 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions
Make the Sweet and Sour Cabbage: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Add cabbage and apple. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in vinegar, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and optional cloves or caraway. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Prepare the Schnitzel: Pound pork chops or chicken to 1/4-inch thickness. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Set up a breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.
Dredge each cutlet in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray schnitzels on both sides with cooking spray.
Air fry in a single layer for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
Serve schnitzel hot with sweet and sour cabbage on the side.
Notes
Substitute veal or chicken for pork if preferred.
Add mustard or horseradish to egg wash for extra zing.
Make cabbage ahead—it tastes even better the next day.
Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a GF version.
Serve with lemon wedges, potatoes, or mustard on the side.