Chicken Milanese Recipe

Chicken Milanese is a delightful Italian dish that transforms simple chicken breasts into a crispy, golden delicacy that’s full of flavor. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself to a satisfying meal. With its crunchy coating and fresh salad accompaniment, Chicken Milanese is not just good to eat; it’s a visual delight as well. This article will guide you through the process of making this wonderful dish, so you can enjoy an authentic Italian meal right in your kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to love Chicken Milanese. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, which makes it a perfect choice for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Plus, the chicken cooks quickly, making it an excellent option for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

Another compelling reason is the versatility of the dish. Chicken Milanese pairs wonderfully with various sides, including salads, vegetables, or pasta. The crispy chicken cutlets can also be enjoyed on their own, with a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. Finally, this dish is a great way to introduce new flavors into your cooking repertoire while staying true to comfort food traditions.

How to Make Chicken Milanese

Making Chicken Milanese is a straightforward process that involves preparing the chicken, the breading, and a fresh salad to accompany your dish. Let’s walk through the steps together.

Ingredients:

• Chicken

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise to make 4 thinner breasts
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salad

  • 4 cups arugula
  • ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced
  • ⅓ cup shaved Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Breading Stations: In a wide shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. In a final bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning.

2. Make the Salad: In a medium bowl, combine the arugula, red onion, and shaved Parmesan cheese. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Once mixed well, drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing to coat. Set the salad aside for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Dredge the Chicken: Take each piece of chicken breast and dredge it first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dunk the chicken in the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides well.

4. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the butter and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets. Cook until the bottom is nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook until the other side is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through, another 3-4 minutes.

5. Serve: Top the fried cutlets with the prepared arugula salad and serve them hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side.

How to Serve Chicken Milanese

Serving Chicken Milanese can be as simple or elaborate as you like. The dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Place the crispy chicken cutlets on a plate, topped with the fresh salad, to create a colorful and appetizing dish. You can also offer additional lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to add a spritz of lemon juice, which enhances the flavors of the chicken and salad.

For a complete meal, consider pairing your Chicken Milanese with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a light pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs. Or, keep it light by serving with a vegetable medley or roasted asparagus.

How to Store Chicken Milanese

If you have leftovers, storing Chicken Milanese is quite simple. Allow the chicken to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it can last for up to 3 days. When reheating, aim to restore some of the crispiness by placing it in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat.

Keep in mind that the salad should not be stored with the chicken if you plan to keep leftovers. Dress the salad fresh each time you serve it, as it can become soggy if mixed in with the chicken.

Tips to Make Chicken Milanese

1. Pound the Chicken: To ensure even cooking and tenderness, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cutting. This helps the chicken cook evenly and remain juicy.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh breadcrumbs and high-quality chicken will greatly enhance the flavors of your dish. If you can, make your own breadcrumbs by toasting bread and blending it in a food processor.

3. Don’t Crowd the Pan: When frying, avoid placing too many chicken cutlets in the pan at once. Fry in batches if needed to maintain the oil temperature and achieve maximum crispiness.

4. Season Well: Be sure to season each step of the process—flour, egg, and breadcrumbs—to ensure the chicken is flavorful inside and out.

Variations

While the classic Chicken Milanese is delicious as is, you can easily customize it according to your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Herbed Variations: Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor and freshness.
• Cheesy Twist: Mix some grated Parmesan or mozzarella with the breadcrumbs for a cheesy crust that melts beautifully over the chicken.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Different Proteins: While chicken is traditional, you can use the same technique for thin slices of pork or eggplant for a vegetarian version.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for even cooking.

2. Is Chicken Milanese gluten-free?
You can make a gluten-free version using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. Check the labels to ensure all ingredients meet the requirements.

3. Can I bake Chicken Milanese instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray or drizzle the chicken with olive oil to help it brown.

4. What should I serve with Chicken Milanese?
Chicken Milanese pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, pasta, or even crusty bread to mop up the flavors. It’s versatile enough for any side!

Making Chicken Milanese at home will not only impress your family and friends but also allow you to enjoy this Italian classic any day of the week. Follow the steps, add your personal touch, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to indulge in. Enjoy!