Christmas Chicken Schnitzel

Meanwhile, finely crush the hazelnuts in the unopened sachet using a rolling pin. 

Sandwich each chicken breast between two pieces of baking paper. Pop onto a board, then give it a bash with the bottom of a saucepan until it’s 1-2cm thick. Season with salt and pepper.

Crack the egg (see pantry for amount) into a medium bowl and whisk. Put the breadcrumbs, hazelnuts, dried rosemary and the salt for the breadcrumbs (see pantry for amount) into another bowl, then mix.

Dip the chicken into the egg and then the breadcrumbs, ensuring it's completely coated. Transfer to a clean plate. IMPORTANT: Wash your hands and equipment after handling raw chicken and its packaging and discard any excess egg.

Pop a large frying pan on high heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. TIP: You want the oil to be hot so the chicken fries properly - heat for 2-3 mins before you add the chicken.

Once hot, carefully lay the chicken into the pan, and fry until golden brown, 2-3 mins on each side. Adjust the heat if necessary.

Once golden, transfer the chicken to a baking tray. 

Bake on the middle shelf of your oven until cooked through, 8-10 mins. IMPORTANT: The chicken is cooked when no longer pink in the middle.

Discard the oil from the chicken pan.

Meanwhile, peel and grate the garlic (or use a garlic press).

Wipe out the (now empty) frying pan and return to medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Once hot, add the garlic and fry for 30 secs. 

Stir in the creme fraiche and water for the sauce (see pantry for amount). Bring to the boil, then lower the heat and stir through the hard Italian style cheese until melted, 1 min.

Season to taste with salt and pepper, then remove from the heat.