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
Crispy, golden crust with a juicy, tender chicken center
Quick weeknight dinner ready in just 25 minutes
Simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen
Serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for added flavor and a pop of color
Ingredients Breakdown
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (4): The main protein, tenderized for even cooking and a perfect texture.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Used to coat the chicken before the egg wash, ensuring the breadcrumbs stick well.
Eggs (2, beaten with milk): Binds the breadcrumbs to the chicken, providing a smooth, moist layer.
Milk (2 tablespoons): Mixed with eggs to create a rich dipping mixture.
Breadcrumbs (2 cups, Italian seasoned if available): The crispy, crunchy coating that forms the golden crust.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the breadcrumb coating.
Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Seasoning to taste, enhancing the flavor of the chicken and breadcrumbs.
Vegetable Oil (for frying): Used for frying the chicken, ensuring a crispy exterior.
Lemon Wedges: Served on the side for a tangy, fresh kick.
Freshly Chopped Parsley (optional): Garnishes the dish with a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Tips and Tricks
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—cook the chicken in batches to ensure an even, crispy crust.
For an extra crispy crust, consider adding cornstarch to the breadcrumb mixture.
Lemon zest can be mixed into the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh, citrusy twist.
Pair with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Variations and Customizations
Chicken Parmesan: Top the cooked chicken with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for a classic twist on the Milanese.
Herbed Milanese: Add finely chopped fresh herbs (such as basil, thyme, or oregano) to the breadcrumb mixture for more flavor.
Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy variation.
Serving & Storage
Serve this dish with a side of pasta, salad, or vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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.
