Chicken Milanese is a classic Italian dish that brings together crispy, golden breading and tender chicken, offering an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Rooted in the heart of Milan, this dish has evolved from its traditional veal origins to become a beloved favorite worldwide. Whether served with a fresh squeeze of lemon or topped with a tangy tomato sauce, Chicken Milanese remains a comforting and versatile meal that is perfect for any occasion. In this post, we’ll dive into its rich history, share tips on how to perfect the dish, and explore both frying and baking methods for achieving the ideal crispy crust.

History & Origin

Chicken Milanese, or “Cotoletta alla Milanese,” hails from Milan in northern Italy. This beloved dish is rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Lombardy. While traditionally made with veal, chicken became a popular substitute due to its accessibility and affordability. The Milanese recipe has stood the test of time and is a favorite among food lovers worldwide, offering a perfect balance of crispy breading and tender meat.

Chicken Milanese Interesting Facts

The breading technique for Chicken Milanese is simple yet effective, using egg and breadcrumbs to create a golden crust.
“Milanese” refers to any meat that is breaded and fried in this style, which can include veal, chicken, or pork.
It’s often served with a wedge of lemon, which adds a zesty kick, enhancing the flavors of the crispy exterior and juicy interior.

To make a truly authentic Chicken Milanese, follow these steps

Pound the Chicken: Start by gently pounding the chicken breasts to even thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly and stay tender inside.
Seasoning: Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper before breading. You can also add a hint of garlic powder or dried herbs to your breadcrumbs for added flavor.
The Breading Process: Dip the chicken in flour, then into a beaten egg mixture, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. For a crunchy, golden result, make sure the breadcrumbs are evenly pressed onto the chicken.

Baking vs. Frying: Pros and Cons

While Chicken Milanese is traditionally fried, baking offers a healthier alternative. Here’s a comparison:

Frying
- Pros: Frying gives the chicken a crispy, golden exterior with a juicy, tender interior.
- Cons: It can be messy, requires more oil, and can sometimes lead to uneven cooking if the oil temperature isn’t right.
Baking
- Pros: Baking is a healthier option as it uses less oil. The chicken can still get crispy, especially if you spray it with a light coat of olive oil before baking.
- Cons: The breading might not get as crisp as frying, and the result may lack the same depth of flavor.

Tomato Sauce Style

Although Chicken Milanese is often served with just a squeeze of lemon, you can pair it with a simple tomato sauce to elevate the dish. A marinara or pomodoro sauce with fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of basil complements the crispy chicken perfectly.

Side Dishes

Chicken Milanese is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

Arugula Salad: A fresh salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan adds a peppery contrast to the rich, crispy chicken.
Roasted Potatoes: For a hearty side, serve the Milanese with roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and rosemary.
Pasta: Simple pasta, like spaghetti aglio e olio, complements the dish without overshadowing it.

Chicken Milanese is a timeless Italian favorite, offering simplicity and deliciousness in every bite. Whether you fry it for the ultimate crispy texture or bake it for a healthier version, this dish never disappoints. Add a zesty tomato sauce or serve it with fresh sides to complete the meal, and enjoy a true taste of Italy at home.

Authentic Chicken Milanese

Kastra Recipes Staff

Crispy, golden-breaded chicken cutlets cooked to perfection, Chicken Milanese is a classic Italian dish that’s versatile and easy to make. Perfectly seasoned chicken is coated with Parmesan breadcrumbs and either fried or baked for a healthier option. Serve with a wedge of lemon, tomato sauce, or a fresh arugula salad for a complete meal.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Resting Time: After cooking 5

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

Authentic Chicken Milanese Recipe

For the Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
2 large eggs beaten
2 cups breadcrumbs preferably panko for extra crunch
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder optional
1 teaspoon dried oregano optional
1/2 cup olive oil for frying
Lemon wedges for serving

For the Tomato Sauce (optional)

2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
A handful of fresh basil leaves torn

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Start by tenderizing the chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper, and use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This will help ensure they cook evenly and stay tender.

Season the Chicken

Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper. You can also sprinkle a little garlic powder or dried oregano for added flavor, depending on your preference.

Bread the Chicken

Set up your breading station with three shallow bowls:
In the first bowl, place the flour.
In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the Parmesan cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well to the surface. Set aside while you heat the oil.
Fry the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to fry but not smoking. To test if it’s ready, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil—if it sizzles, it’s time to cook.
Fry the chicken breasts one or two at a time, depending on the size of your pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the breading is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). If needed, adjust the heat to avoid burning the breading.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Make the Tomato Sauce (Optional)

While the chicken is frying, you can prepare a simple tomato sauce to accompany the dish. In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Just before serving, stir in fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve

Serve the Chicken Milanese hot, with a wedge of lemon on the side for squeezing over the crispy chicken. If you made the tomato sauce, spoon it over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.

Optional Sides to Serve

Arugula Salad: Toss fresh arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and garlic complement the richness of the Chicken Milanese perfectly.
Pasta: Serve the chicken with a simple pasta, like spaghetti aglio e olio, for a satisfying meal.

Notes

Baking Instructions for Chicken Milanese

If you prefer a healthier, less greasy alternative to frying, baking Chicken Milanese is a great option. Here’s how to achieve a crispy and delicious result without the need for frying.

Baking Preparation:

Prepare the Chicken:
- Follow the same instructions as above to tenderize and season the chicken breasts. Pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch and season with salt and pepper.
Bread the Chicken:
- Set up your breading station with three shallow bowls:
  - In the first bowl, place the flour.
  - In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
  - In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Lightly spray the parchment paper with olive oil or brush the chicken breasts with a thin layer of olive oil using a pastry brush. This will help achieve a golden, crispy crust as the chicken bakes.

Baking the Chicken:

Arrange the Chicken:
- Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows for even airflow around each piece, helping them crisp up.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken breasts, so be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
Crisping the Chicken:
- If you want the chicken to be extra crispy, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to ensure the breading doesn’t burn, but the crust becomes beautifully golden.

Serving:

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve with a wedge of lemon, fresh basil, or your favorite tomato sauce if desired.

Keyword authentic Italian dish, breaded chicken, chicken milanese

Chicken Milanese: A Delicious Italian Classic