Name: Chicken Milanese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lbs); Kosher salt (for seasoning); black pepper (for seasoning); ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 3 large eggs; 1 cup panko bread crumbs; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; ½ cup olive oil (for frying); Arugula salad (for serving); Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Chicken Milanese is a classic Italian dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. This crispy, golden-brown chicken dish is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. With a simple yet delightful combination of chicken, breadcrumbs, and cheese, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with a fresh arugula salad and a squeeze of lemon for a truly memorable meal. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of Chicken Milanese lies in its technique. Coating the chicken breasts in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture creates a crunchy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside. The use of panko breadcrumbs adds an extra layer of crispiness that will have your taste buds dancing. By using fresh ingredients like parsley and lemon zest, we elevate the dish and bring a burst of freshness that brightens each bite. Plus, it’s easy to make, requiring minimal prep and cooking time, making it a perfect choice for those busy evenings.

Ingredients at a Glance

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 1 ½ lbs
Kosher salt and black pepper, for seasoning
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
3 large eggs
1 cup panko bread crumbs
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
1 teaspoon lemon zest
½ cup olive oil, for frying
Arugula salad, for serving
Lemon wedges, for serving

Hardware & Gadgets

Meat mallet or rolling pin: For flattening the chicken breasts evenly.
Three shallow dishes: For the breading station (flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs).
Large skillet: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
Spatula: To flip the chicken without damaging the crispy coating.
Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Make Chicken Milanese: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to about ½ inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tenderness. Season both sides generously with Kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour and garlic powder. In a second dish, beat the large eggs until well combined. In a third dish, mix the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and lemon zest.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the panko mixture, pressing it in to adhere well. Repeat this process for all chicken pieces.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken in the skillet. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with a fresh arugula salad and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Swap the chicken for thinly sliced eggplant for a vegetarian version.
Add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a kick.
Use different cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a unique flavor.
Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the panko mixture for added freshness.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

Chicken Milanese is a versatile dish that can be modified to suit your tastes. Consider serving it with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. The key to a crispy coating is ensuring the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, which prevents sogginess. Additionally, using panko breadcrumbs rather than regular breadcrumbs will give you that coveted crunch.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to prepare Chicken Milanese ahead of time, you can freeze the breaded chicken before frying. Simply place the breaded chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to cook, you can fry directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Desserts to Finish

That’s a Wrap

This Chicken Milanese recipe is a delightful way to showcase the simplicity and beauty of Italian cooking. With its crispy exterior and tender chicken, it will quickly become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, Chicken Milanese is sure to impress. Don’t forget to pair it with a fresh salad and a drizzle of lemon for that perfect finishing touch. Happy cooking!