Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, Chicken Milanese is a dish that combines simplicity with elegance. This recipe brings together tender chicken breasts, a crunchy breaded exterior, and a burst of lemony freshness, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

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Ingredients Needed

To create this mouthwatering Chicken Milanese, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that come together to form a deliciously crispy crust and tender interior. Start with two skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, which you’ll slice thinly for even cooking. Next, gather two large eggs, which you’ll whisk with kosher salt and ground black pepper to add depth of flavor to the coating. For the breading, use three-quarters of a cup of all-purpose flour and one cup of Italian seasoned bread crumbs—these will give your chicken that classic, crunchy texture. You’ll also need a quarter cup of vegetable oil for frying, which ensures the chicken cooks evenly and reaches that perfect golden-brown hue. Finally, don’t forget to have a lemon on hand, cut into wedges, ready to squeeze over the finished dish for a zesty finish.

For those looking to elevate the flavor even further, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs or incorporating a dash of garlic powder into the flour. These optional ingredients can enhance the overall taste, making each bite even more irresistible.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Before you start cooking, set your oven to 200°F (95°C). Preheating the oven at this temperature will allow you to keep your cooked chicken warm while you finish frying the remaining pieces, ensuring that everything is served hot and crisp.

Begin by preparing the coating. In a shallow dish, whisk the eggs together with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This seasoned egg mixture not only adds flavor but also helps the breading adhere to the chicken. In separate shallow dishes, spread out the flour and the Italian seasoned bread crumbs. The flour provides a base layer for the breading, while the bread crumbs create that deliciously crunchy exterior.

Next, it’s time to bread the chicken. Take each slice of chicken and lightly dredge it in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping. Then, dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off before pressing it into the bread crumbs. To ensure a thorough coating, gently press the chicken into the crumbs, then shake off any loose crumbs. Place the breaded chicken on a plate, being careful not to stack the pieces to avoid sticking.

Now, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the breaded chicken slices in batches. Fry each side for about 2 to 4 minutes until the chicken turns a beautiful golden brown. To check if it’s done, use an instant-read thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and place it in the preheated oven to keep warm while you finish frying the rest.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts: For the best results, opt for skinless, boneless chicken breast halves that are thinly sliced. Thin slices cook evenly and quickly, which is essential for achieving a crispy crust without overcooking the chicken.
Getting the Perfect Crisp: To ensure the breading adheres well and achieves a golden, crunchy texture, be sure to thoroughly coat each piece of chicken with flour, egg, and bread crumbs. Pressing the chicken into the crumbs helps them stick better, giving you that perfect crispness.
Avoiding Soggy Chicken: Soggy chicken can be avoided by not overcrowding the pan during frying, which ensures the chicken fries rather than steams. Also, keeping the cooked chicken warm in the oven helps maintain its crispness until you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of breadcrumbs? Absolutely! Panko breadcrumbs are a great alternative, offering an extra crispy texture. You can also try making your own breadcrumbs from stale bread for a more rustic, homemade touch.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without compromising on taste or texture.
What is the best oil for frying? Vegetable oil is ideal for frying due to its high smoke point, but you can also use canola oil or even light olive oil. Each oil will bring a slightly different flavor profile, so choose one based on your personal preference.
How can I store leftovers? Leftover chicken cutlets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, to retain the crispiness.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Chicken Milanese is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic Italian-inspired meal, serve the cutlets alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a light, refreshing salad. Steamed vegetables, such as green beans or asparagus, also complement the richness of the fried chicken.

When it comes to sauces, a simple lemon butter sauce can enhance the dish’s flavors without overpowering the chicken. Alternatively, a marinara sauce or even a light pesto could add a burst of flavor, making the meal even more satisfying.

To complete the dining experience, pair the dish with a crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, which will balance the richness of the fried chicken. For a non-alcoholic option, a glass of iced tea with a hint of lemon would be a refreshing choice.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

When it comes to serving Chicken Milanese, presentation is key. Arrange the chicken cutlets on a large platter, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color. This simple garnish not only adds visual appeal but also introduces a fresh flavor that complements the dish.

For an elevated touch, consider adding a sprinkle of grated parmesan or a few shavings of truffle over the top of the cutlets. These finishing touches can transform a simple meal into a gourmet experience.

Chicken Milanese is a dish that effortlessly combines ease of preparation with a deliciously satisfying result. With its crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy interior, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this versatile dish never fails to impress. So why not give it a try and savor the delightful blend of flavors and textures that make Chicken Milanese a timeless classic?

Ingredients

2 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, thinly sliced
2 large eggs
¾ cup all-purpose flour
1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
Kosher salt and ground black pepper to taste
¼ cup vegetable oil for frying
1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 200°F (95°C) to keep the cooked chicken warm. Begin the preparation by whisking the eggs together with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper in a shallow dish. In separate shallow dishes, spread out the flour in one and the Italian seasoned bread crumbs in another.

Take each chicken slice and lightly dredge it in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated before shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the bread crumbs, gently shaking off any loose crumbs. Place the breaded chicken on a plate, being careful not to stack the pieces on top of each other.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken slices in batches, frying each side for about 2 to 4 minutes until they turn a golden brown. The chicken is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads at least 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken pieces to a baking sheet and keep them warm in the preheated oven while you finish frying the rest.

Serve the crispy chicken cutlets hot, with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a burst of citrus flavor.