Chicken Milanese
Chicken Milanese is one of those dishes that never fails to impress, and yet it's surprisingly easy to make at home. I still remember the first time I had it at an Italian restaurant - the crispy exterior giving way to tender, juicy chicken, all served with a side of tangy lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. It was love at first bite. Since then, I've perfected my own recipe for Chicken Milanese, and I'm excited to share it with you.
One of the best things about Chicken Milanese is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main course, or use it as a topping for salads or sandwiches. It's also a great option for a quick weeknight dinner, as it can be prepared in under an hour. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques.
So what makes my Chicken Milanese recipe so special? For starters, I use a combination of all-purpose flour, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs to create a crispy exterior that's both crunchy and flavorful. I also add a hint of lemon zest to the breading mixture, which gives the chicken a bright and citrusy flavor. And to ensure that the chicken stays juicy and tender, I make sure to not overcook it, cooking it just until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a little Italian flair to their meal routine. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the magic of Chicken Milanese for yourself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It's easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients.
- It's a great option for a quick weeknight dinner, as it can be prepared in under an hour.
- It's incredibly versatile, and can be served as a main course or used as a topping for salads or sandwiches.
- It's a crowd-pleaser, and is sure to impress your family and friends.
- It's customizable, so you can make it your own by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the breading mixture.
- It's a great way to add a little Italian flair to your meal routine.
Why This Recipe Works
The key to making great Chicken Milanese is all about the layers of flavor and texture. First, you've got the crispy exterior, which is achieved by dredging the chicken cutlets in a mixture of flour, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Then, you've got the tender and juicy interior, which is ensured by cooking the chicken just until it reaches a safe internal temperature. And finally, you've got the tangy and creamy sauce, which is made by squeezing a bit of lemon juice over the top of the chicken.
But what really makes this recipe work is the attention to detail. From the way the chicken is pounded thin to the way the breadcrumbs are toasted to perfection, every step is designed to create a dish that's both flavorful and visually appealing. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to customize, so you can make it your own by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the breading mixture.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when making Chicken Milanese is the temperature of the oil. You want it to be hot, but not so hot that it burns the chicken. And you also want to make sure that the chicken is cooked just until it reaches a safe internal temperature, so it stays juicy and tender. By following these simple tips, you can create a dish that's both delicious and impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Chicken Milanese, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including chicken cutlets, all-purpose flour, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You'll also need some fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish.
When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality chicken cutlets that are thin and even. You'll also want to select a good parmesan cheese that's freshly grated, as this will add a lot of flavor to the dish. And don't forget to pick up some fresh parsley and lemons, as these will add a bright and citrusy flavor to the finished dish.
- 1 1/2 pounds (675g) chicken cutlets, bonelessLook for thin and even cutlets, as these will cook more evenly and be easier to bread.
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flourUse a high-quality all-purpose flour that's fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
- 1/2 cup (60g) grated parmesan cheeseChoose a good parmesan cheese that's freshly grated, as this will add a lot of flavor to the dish.
- 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbsUse plain breadcrumbs, as these will provide a nice crunch without adding too much flavor to the dish.
- 2 large eggsUse fresh eggs, as these will be easier to beat and will provide a better texture to the breading mixture.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juiceUse freshly squeezed lemon juice, as this will add a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oilChoose a high-quality olive oil that's fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
- 1 teaspoon saltUse a high-quality salt that's fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper, as this will add a lot of flavor to the dish.
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsleyUse fresh parsley, as this will add a bright and fresh flavor to the dish.
- 2 lemons, cut into wedgesUse fresh lemons, as these will add a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Chicken Milanese
- 1Start by preparing the breading station. In one shallow dish, place the flour. In another dish, beat the eggs. And in a third dish, mix together the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
- 2Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Then, dredge each cutlet in the flour, coating both sides evenly.
- 3Dip the floured cutlet in the eggs, making sure to coat it completely. Then, place the cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
- 4Heat about 1/4 cup (60ml) of olive oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add 2-3 breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet.
- 5Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast.
- 6When the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate or tray. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining chicken cutlets.
- 7Once all the chicken is cooked, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top of each cutlet. Then, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top of each cutlet.
- 8Serve the Chicken Milanese hot, with a side of lemon wedges and your favorite sides or salads.
- 9Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay tender.
- 10To make the dish more substantial, serve the Chicken Milanese with a side of pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- 11Experiment with different seasonings and herbs in the breading mixture to give the chicken a unique flavor.
- 12For a crisper exterior, try chilling the breaded chicken cutlets in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- 13To freeze the chicken, place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cutlets to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Expert Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, to add a lot of flavor to the dish.
- Don't overcook the chicken, as this will make it dry and tough. Cook it just until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
- Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil, as this will help you to achieve the perfect crispy exterior.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay tender.
- Experiment with different seasonings and herbs in the breading mixture to give the chicken a unique flavor.
- Try serving the Chicken Milanese with a side of lemon wedges, as this will add a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish.
- For a crisper exterior, try chilling the breaded chicken cutlets in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet, which can lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
- Not using a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil, which can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken.
- Not letting the chicken rest before serving, which can cause the juices to run out and the chicken to become dry.
- Using low-quality ingredients, such as old parmesan cheese or stale breadcrumbs, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Not pounding the chicken cutlets thin enough, which can make them difficult to cook evenly.
- Not using enough oil in the skillet, which can cause the chicken to stick and become greasy.
Variations and Substitutions
- Try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
- Experiment with different seasonings and herbs in the breading mixture, such as garlic powder or dried oregano, to give the chicken a unique flavor.
- Add some diced ham or bacon to the breading mixture for a salty and savory flavor.
- Try serving the Chicken Milanese with a side of marinara sauce or pesto, as this will add a rich and tangy flavor to the dish.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free.
- Try using chicken breasts instead of cutlets, as this will make the dish more substantial and filling.
- Add some chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the breading mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
What to Serve With Chicken Milanese
Chicken Milanese is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Try serving it with a side of pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables for a filling and satisfying meal. You can also serve it with a side of lemon wedges and a green salad for a lighter and fresher option.
Some other ideas for serving Chicken Milanese include using it as a topping for salads or sandwiches, or serving it with a side of soup or stew. You can also try serving it with a side of garlic bread or roasted potatoes for a more indulgent option.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
Chicken Milanese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. To store it in the refrigerator, place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate at a temperature of 40 F (4 C) or below.
To freeze the chicken, place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cutlets to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer at a temperature of 0 F (-18 C) or below.
To reheat the chicken, simply place it in the oven at a temperature of 350 F (175 C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's hot and crispy. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Milanese?
Chicken Milanese is a type of Italian dish that consists of breaded and fried chicken cutlets. It's typically made with chicken breasts or cutlets, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and eggs, and is often served with a side of lemon wedges and parsley.
How do I make Chicken Milanese?
To make Chicken Milanese, start by preparing the breading station. In one shallow dish, place the flour. In another dish, beat the eggs. And in a third dish, mix together the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese. Then, season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper, and dredge each cutlet in the flour, coating both sides evenly. Dip the floured cutlet in the eggs, making sure to coat it completely. Then, place the cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
What type of cheese is best to use for Chicken Milanese?
The best type of cheese to use for Chicken Milanese is parmesan cheese. This is because parmesan cheese has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the crispy exterior and tender interior of the chicken. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, but parmesan is the most traditional and flavorful option.
Can I make Chicken Milanese ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Chicken Milanese ahead of time. Simply prepare the breading station and bread the chicken cutlets, then place them on a plate or tray and refrigerate or freeze until you're ready to cook them. You can also cook the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it, then reheat it in the oven or microwave when you're ready to serve.
How do I reheat Chicken Milanese?
To reheat Chicken Milanese, simply place it in the oven at a temperature of 350 F (175 C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's hot and crispy. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. It's best to reheat the chicken in the oven, as this will help to preserve the crispy exterior and tender interior.
Can I freeze Chicken Milanese?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Milanese. To freeze the chicken, place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cutlets to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer at a temperature of 0 F (-18 C) or below.
How long does Chicken Milanese last in the refrigerator?
Chicken Milanese can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best to store it in an airtight container and refrigerate at a temperature of 40 F (4 C) or below.
Can I make Chicken Milanese gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Chicken Milanese gluten-free. Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and be sure to check the ingredients of the parmesan cheese and any other seasonings or herbs you use to ensure they are gluten-free.

Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds (675g) chicken cutlets, boneless
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60g) grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley
- 2 lemons, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Start by preparing the breading station. In one shallow dish, place the flour. In another dish, beat the eggs. And in a third dish, mix together the breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
- Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Then, dredge each cutlet in the flour, coating both sides evenly.
- Dip the floured cutlet in the eggs, making sure to coat it completely. Then, place the cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.
- Heat about 1/4 cup (60ml) of olive oil in a large heavy skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add 2-3 breaded chicken cutlets to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 F (74 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast.
- When the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate or tray. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining chicken cutlets.
- Once all the chicken is cooked, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top of each cutlet. Then, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top of each cutlet.
- Serve the Chicken Milanese hot, with a side of lemon wedges and your favorite sides or salads.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay tender.
- To make the dish more substantial, serve the Chicken Milanese with a side of pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- Experiment with different seasonings and herbs in the breading mixture to give the chicken a unique flavor.
- For a crisper exterior, try chilling the breaded chicken cutlets in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- To freeze the chicken, place the breaded cutlets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cutlets to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.