Chicken Milanese

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Chicken Milanese is a classic Italian dish that originated in Milan, Italy. It features thinly pounded chicken breasts coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden and crispy. The dish is known for its simple yet flavorful preparation, making it a popular choice in both Italian homes and restaurants worldwide.

Traditionally, Chicken Milanese is served with a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, adding a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course alongside roasted vegetables, pasta, or risotto.

The origins of Chicken Milanese date back to the early 19th century, where it was inspired by the traditional Viennese dish, Wiener Schnitzel. Over time, the dish evolved to incorporate local Italian ingredients and flavors, becoming a beloved staple of Italian cuisine.

Today, Chicken Milanese remains a timeless favorite for its crispy texture, tender chicken, and delightful combination of flavors. Whether served as a comforting family meal or as an elegant dinner option, Chicken Milanese continues to captivate the taste buds of food enthusiasts around the world.

 

Chicken Milanese

 

Chicken Milanese Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Chicken Milanese

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Place one chicken breast at a time between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet, gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
    • Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  2. Set Up Breading Station:
    • In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika in the third.
  3. Bread the Chicken:
    • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
    • Dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, coating both sides evenly.
    • Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with breadcrumbs.
  4. Fry the Chicken:
    • In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet.
    • Carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
    • Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the Chicken Milanese hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken.
    • Optional: Serve with a side of arugula salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil for a traditional accompaniment.

Enjoy your crispy and delicious Chicken Milanese!

With what goes best?

Chicken Milanese

Chicken Milanese pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Here are some options to consider:

  1. Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper complements the crispy chicken perfectly. The peppery flavor of arugula adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
  2. Pasta: Serve Chicken Milanese alongside a side of pasta tossed in a light tomato sauce, marinara, or garlic butter sauce. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine are excellent choices.
  3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, or cherry tomatoes make a flavorful and colorful side dish. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast until tender.
  4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting accompaniment to Chicken Milanese. Season the mashed potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper for a classic side dish.
  5. Steamed Vegetables: Steamed green beans, carrots, or snap peas offer a healthy and nutritious side option. Steam the vegetables until crisp-tender and season with a sprinkle of salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
  6. Risotto: Creamy risotto makes a luxurious side dish for Chicken Milanese. Prepare a classic risotto flavored with Parmesan cheese, white wine, and chicken broth for an indulgent pairing.
  7. Bread: Serve slices of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread on the side for soaking up any delicious sauces or juices from the chicken.
  8. Caprese Salad: A light and refreshing Caprese salad made with sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, basil leaves, and balsamic glaze provides a vibrant contrast to the crispy chicken.
  9. Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and mushrooms offer a smoky flavor and satisfying texture. Grill the vegetables until tender and lightly charred for a delicious side dish.
  10. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a lemon vinaigrette is a nutritious and filling accompaniment to Chicken Milanese. Customize the salad with your favorite vegetables and herbs for added flavor.

These side dishes complement the crispy texture and savory flavor of Chicken Milanese, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Choose one or more options based on your personal preferences and dietary preferences.

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origin

The origin of Chicken Milanese can be traced back to Milan, Italy, from where it derives its name. “Milanese” refers to anything originating from Milan. This classic Italian dish is a variation of the traditional Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet originating from Austria.

The exact origins of Chicken Milanese are not well-documented, but it is believed to have emerged in Milan during the 19th or early 20th century. As Italy underwent social and economic changes during this time, culinary influences from neighboring regions and countries likely contributed to the creation of Chicken Milanese.

The dish gained popularity in Milan and gradually spread throughout Italy and beyond, becoming a beloved staple of Italian cuisine. Today, Chicken Milanese is enjoyed in homes and restaurants worldwide, appreciated for its simple yet delicious preparation and crispy texture.

While the original Chicken Milanese recipe calls for veal, chicken became a popular substitute due to its affordability and availability. The preparation method remained largely the same, with thinly pounded chicken breasts breaded and fried until golden and crispy.

Chicken Milanese embodies the essence of Italian comfort food, offering a flavorful and satisfying dining experience that has stood the test of time. Whether served as a casual family meal or an elegant dinner option, Chicken Milanese continues to delight food enthusiasts around the globe with its timeless appeal.

Chicken Milanese

Faqs

The origin of Chicken Milanese can be traced back to Milan, Italy, from where it derives its name. “Milanese” refers to anything originating from Milan. This classic Italian dish is a variation of the traditional Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet originating from Austria.

The exact origins of Chicken Milanese are not well-documented, but it is believed to have emerged in Milan during the 19th or early 20th century. As Italy underwent social and economic changes during this time, culinary influences from neighboring regions and countries likely contributed to the creation of Chicken Milanese.

The dish gained popularity in Milan and gradually spread throughout Italy and beyond, becoming a beloved staple of Italian cuisine. Today, Chicken Milanese is enjoyed in homes and restaurants worldwide, appreciated for its simple yet delicious preparation and crispy texture.

While the original Chicken Milanese recipe calls for veal, chicken became a popular substitute due to its affordability and availability. The preparation method remained largely the same, with thinly pounded chicken breasts breaded and fried until golden and crispy.

Chicken Milanese embodies the essence of Italian comfort food, offering a flavorful and satisfying dining experience that has stood the test of time. Whether served as a casual family meal or an elegant dinner option, Chicken Milanese continues to delight food enthusiasts around the globe with its timeless appeal.

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