This simple dish traces its roots back to Milan, a bustling metropolis in the northern region of Italy. While it shares similarities with the famous Austrian Wiener Schnitzel, Chicken Milanese stands out with its own unique Italian flair. The term “Milanese” denotes its origin, referring to the cooking style that hails from Milan.
Historically, Milan was known for its veal dishes, and the original “Cotoletta alla Milanese” was made with veal. Over time, as tastes and dietary preferences evolved, chicken became a popular, cheaper substitute, resulting in the beloved Chicken Milanese we know today. This dish epitomizes the Italian culinary philosophy of using simple, high-quality ingredients to create something really spectacular.
Youtube video at the bottom of the page.
The Ingredients
One of the reasons Chicken Milanese is so cherished is because of its simplicity. Here are the key ingredients that make up this delectable dish:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, pounded to an even thickness with a meat mallet for quick and uniform cooking.
- Breadcrumbs: Fresh or dried, seasoned with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- Eggs: Beaten, to create a coating that helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- Flour: For dredging the chicken, ensuring the egg and breadcrumb mixture sticks well.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated and mixed with the breadcrumbs, adding a nutty, savory element to the crust.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the chicken and breadcrumb mixture.
- Olive Oil: For frying, giving the chicken a golden, crispy exterior.
- Lemon Wedges: For serving, adding a bright, tangy finish that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken.
Optional ingredients may include garlic powder, parsley, and additional spices to tailor the dish to your liking.
The Recipe
Creating Chicken Milanese at home is straightforward and rewarding. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Chicken Milanese
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably Italian seasoned
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch.
- Set Up the Dredging Station: In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Season each component with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the Chicken: Lightly coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Enjoying Chicken Milanese
Chicken Milanese can be served in various ways, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh arugula salad, lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Alternatively, you can serve it with a side of pasta or roasted vegetables. The simplicity of the dish allows it to shine on its own or complement a variety of accompaniments. A nice Mushroom Sauce is a stunning addition to this dish.
Mushroom Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Clarified Butter
- 2 tablespoons Shallots or Onions finely chopped
- 2 cups Mushrooms finely chopped
- Pinch of Salt to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoon Garlic finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Tarragon chopped
- 2 tablespoons of Balsamic Vinegar
- 1 cup Red Wine
- 1 ½ cup Beef or Chicken Stock
- 1 or 2 tablespoons Cornstarch diluted in water
- 3 tablespoons Heavy Whipping Cream
- 1 tablespoon Parsley chopped
Instructions
- In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon butter, when heated, add shallots or onions and cook until soft and add the mushrooms and the salt and cook until they have released their water (this could take 7 to 10 minutes).
- Add the fresh or dried herbs and garlic, cook for about 15 to 20 seconds, add the vinegar and wine and let it reduce until about half of it remains. Add stock and cook for 15/20 minutes.
- Add cream and parsley.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce with butter or cornstarch and at the last minutes add more butter as you like it.
/Making Chicken Milanese from scratch (youtube.com)
Chicken Milanese is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine, showcasing how simple,basic ingredients are transformed into a dish that is both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re enjoying it in the heart of Milan or making it in your own kitchen, this dish is sure to bring a taste of Italy to your table. So why not give it a try and experience the deliciousness of Chicken Milanese with a delicious Mushroom Sauce for yourself? Expect compliments from your dinner guests. Buon appetito!
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