Chicken Milanese is a classic Italian dish that features tender chicken breasts breaded and pan-fried to golden perfection. Paired with a simple pasta, it makes for a satisfying and elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy texture of the chicken contrasts beautifully with the soft pasta, creating a delightful combination that will please any palate.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Milanese:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to gently pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Prepare three separate shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated on both sides. Set aside on a plate.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts.
- Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Keep warm.
- Prepare the Pasta:
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the garlic-infused oil. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water. Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Plate the pasta and top each serving with a Chicken Milanese. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh flavor.
Variations & Tips:
- Herb-Crusted Chicken: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheesy Upgrade: For a richer dish, add a slice of mozzarella or provolone on top of the chicken during the last minute of cooking. Cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese.
- Marinara Sauce: Serve the Chicken Milanese with a simple marinara sauce instead of lemon for a classic Chicken Parmesan twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Pasta Alternatives: Swap out traditional pasta for whole wheat or vegetable-based pasta for a healthier option. Zoodles (zucchini noodles) also make a great low-carb alternative.
Tips:
- For extra crispy chicken, let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the breadcrumbs from sticking to the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain an even cooking temperature.
Final Thoughts:
Chicken Milanese with Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for a comforting dinner. The crispy chicken paired with the simplicity of pasta creates a well-balanced meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its versatility and ease of preparation, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or even special occasions. Experiment with the variations to find your favorite version, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.