Chicken Milanese Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests with a delightful dish, look no further than Chicken Milanese. This classic Italian recipe features crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets served atop a fresh salad, making it a perfect blend of comforting and refreshing. The beauty of Chicken Milanese lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Let’s dive into this simple yet impressive Chicken Milanese Recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Cooks rave about Chicken Milanese for several reasons. First and foremost, the crispy texture of the chicken is irresistible, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. The dish is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Another reason is the freshness brought by the salad, which complements the richness of the fried chicken beautifully. You can serve it with various toppings or sides, making it a versatile option for any meal. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that combines both protein and greens in one plate?

Ingredients at a Glance

• 8 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 6 large eggs
• 4 cups breadcrumbs
• Coarse salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: finely chopped fresh parsley for garnish
• Oil for frying
• 8 cups baby arugula
• 1 cup micro greens (optional)
• 1 cup sliced assorted cherry tomatoes
• 1 peeled and thinly sliced red onion
• 1 cup shaved parmesan cheese
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 to 3 tablespoons)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Coarse salt and cracked pepper to taste

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large frying pan: For frying the chicken cutlets to a perfect golden crisp.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: To pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
• Three shallow dishes: For flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs for the breading process.
• Large bowl: For mixing the salad ingredients.
• Whisk: To beat the eggs smoothly.
• Spatula or tongs: For flipping the chicken while frying.

Build Chicken Milanese Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to about ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tenderizes the meat.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations

In three shallow dishes, place the all-purpose flour in one, beat the eggs in the second, and pour the breadcrumbs into the third. Season the flour with coarse salt and cracked pepper to taste.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally, coat it in the breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is fully coated for maximum crispiness.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large frying pan, heat enough oil over medium-high heat to cover the bottom by about ¼ inch. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to flip the chicken gently. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the baby arugula, micro greens (if using), sliced cherry tomatoes, and red onion. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey, extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a dressing.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

To serve, place a generous handful of the salad mixture on a plate, top with a crispy chicken breast, and sprinkle with shaved parmesan cheese. Drizzle with the dressing and garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Substitutions by Category

• Chicken: You can use turkey cutlets or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian version.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
• Greens: Swap arugula with spinach or mixed greens based on your preference.
• Dressing: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

• Dry Chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken by ensuring the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A meat thermometer can help; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
• Uncrispy Coating: Ensure your chicken is well-coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can trap moisture.
• Greasy Chicken: Use enough oil to fry the chicken without it sitting in it, and let the chicken drain on paper towels after frying.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Leftover Chicken Milanese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain its crispiness. You can also prepare the chicken cutlets in advance and store them uncooked in the freezer. Just bread them and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to cook, fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I bake Chicken Milanese instead of frying it?

Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F and place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with cooking oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

What can I serve with Chicken Milanese?

Chicken Milanese pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, pasta, or a light soup. The bright salad served on top adds freshness and balance to the meal.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are many excellent gluten-free breadcrumbs available that will give you the desired crunch.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying. This allows the coating to adhere better during cooking.

Try These Next

• Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
• Easy Chicken Taco Salad
• Simple Vegan Pasta Salad

Time to Try It

Now that you have the complete Chicken Milanese Recipe, it’s your turn to bring this delightful dish to your table. With its crispy chicken cutlets and vibrant salad, this recipe perfectly balances flavor and nutrition. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Chicken Milanese is sure to impress and satisfy. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the cooking adventure ahead!