Chicken Milanese is a timeless Italian dish that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors. This crispy, golden breaded chicken is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, Chicken Milanese pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or pasta. In this recipe, we’ll guide you step-by-step to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)
For Serving:
Lemon wedges
Fresh arugula or mixed greens
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Extra Parmesan for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ¼ inch. This ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In a shallow dish, place the flour.
In another shallow dish, beat the eggs until smooth.
In a third dish, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
Dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating it evenly and pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
Fry the chicken breasts in batches, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Arrange the chicken on a serving platter.
Top with fresh arugula and cherry tomatoes.
Garnish with extra Parmesan and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, tangy finish.
Tips for Success
Pounding the chicken: This step is crucial for even cooking and achieving that perfect crispy texture. Don’t skip it!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs yield the crispiest results, but traditional breadcrumbs work well too.
Oil temperature: Test the oil by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the skillet. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Avoid overcrowding: Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature and ensure even browning.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake Chicken Milanese instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake it for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and spray with cooking oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
2. Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Pork or veal cutlets work wonderfully in place of chicken. Just follow the same preparation and cooking steps.
3. What’s the best way to reheat Chicken Milanese?
To maintain its crispy texture, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
5. What side dishes pair well with Chicken Milanese?
Chicken Milanese pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides such as a mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta tossed in a simple olive oil and garlic sauce.
6. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Chicken Milanese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it up to 4 hours before frying. This can be a great time-saver for entertaining or busy evenings.
Variations to Try
Herb-Crusted Milanese: Add chopped fresh parsley or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh, herbal flavor.
Spicy Milanese: Mix cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the breadcrumbs for a kick of heat.
Parmesan-Crusted Milanese: Increase the Parmesan in the breading for an extra cheesy crust.
Saucy Milanese: Top the crispy chicken with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a Chicken Milanese Parmigiana twist.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Milanese
Quick to make: From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes.
Versatile: Serve it as a main course, in sandwiches, or atop salads.
Crowd-pleaser: The crispy, cheesy breading is a hit with kids and adults alike.
Chicken Milanese is a delightful dish that brings the taste of Italy straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. With its crispy coating, tender chicken, and vibrant accompaniments, it’s a meal you’ll make time and time again. Bon appétit!
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