Looking for a crispy, golden-brown dinner that’s simple to make and full of flavor? Chicken Milanese is the perfect choice! This Italian classic features tender chicken breasts coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of parsley for a light and satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Crispy, golden crust with a juicy, tender chicken center
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Quick weeknight dinner ready in just 25 minutes
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Simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen
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Serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for added flavor and a pop of color
Ingredients Breakdown
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4): The main protein, tenderized for even cooking and a perfect texture.
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All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Used to coat the chicken before the egg wash, ensuring the breadcrumbs stick well.
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Eggs (2, beaten with milk): Binds the breadcrumbs to the chicken, providing a smooth, moist layer.
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Milk (2 tablespoons): Mixed with eggs to create a rich dipping mixture.
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Breadcrumbs (2 cups, Italian seasoned if available): The crispy, crunchy coating that forms the golden crust.
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Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the breadcrumb coating.
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Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Seasoning to taste, enhancing the flavor of the chicken and breadcrumbs.
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Vegetable Oil (for frying): Used for frying the chicken, ensuring a crispy exterior.
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Lemon Wedges: Served on the side for a tangy, fresh kick.
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Freshly Chopped Parsley (optional): Garnishes the dish with a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Tips and Tricks
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Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—cook the chicken in batches to ensure an even, crispy crust.
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For an extra crispy crust, consider adding cornstarch to the breadcrumb mixture.
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Lemon zest can be mixed into the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh, citrusy twist.
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Pair with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Variations and Customizations
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Chicken Parmesan: Top the cooked chicken with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for a classic twist on the Milanese.
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Herbed Milanese: Add finely chopped fresh herbs (such as basil, thyme, or oregano) to the breadcrumb mixture for more flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy variation.
Serving & Storage
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Serve this dish with a side of pasta, salad, or vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until crispy.
Popular Questions
Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work just as well and add extra juiciness.
Can I bake Chicken Milanese instead of frying?
For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While Chicken Milanese is best served immediately after frying, you can prep the chicken and coat it a few hours ahead of time, then fry just before serving.
