Description
Chicken Milanese is a classic Italian dish featuring thin, crispy breaded chicken cutlets fried to golden perfection. Served with a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil, it makes for a light yet satisfying main course full of vibrant flavors and contrasting textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally to make 4 cutlets
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian style breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/3 cup olive oil (for frying)
Salad and Serving
- 2 cups arugula or mixed greens
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for salad)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Cutlets: Place the chicken cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to about 1/4 inch thickness for even cooking and tender texture. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow bowls: first with all-purpose flour, second with beaten eggs, third with a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried oregano, ready for dredging the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken cutlet first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a thorough, even coating.
- Pan-Fry the Cutlets: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets approximately 3 to 4 minutes per side until they become golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the fried cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Prepare the Salad: In a bowl, toss the arugula with lemon juice and olive oil to create a light, refreshing salad that balances the rich chicken.
- Plate and Serve: Arrange the crispy chicken cutlets on plates and top with the dressed arugula salad. Serve immediately alongside lemon wedges for an extra burst of brightness.
Notes
- Chicken Milanese is traditionally thin and crispy, ensuring a delicate crunch with each bite.
- Enhance the salad by adding shaved Parmesan or halved cherry tomatoes for more flavor and color.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with sided roasted potatoes, pasta, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
