Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, chicken Milanese is a classic Italian dish that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. At its heart, it’s a thinly pounded chicken cutlet that’s breaded and pan-fried until beautifully crisp on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside. The key to its irresistible texture is the light, even coating of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, which turns into a crunchy, golden crust when cooked. Each bite delivers the perfect contrast of crisp exterior and succulent chicken, making it a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant.
Chicken Milanese is all about freshness and balance. Traditionally served with a squeeze of lemon, the bright citrus cuts through the richness of the fried coating and enhances the chicken’s natural flavor. A simple salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes dressed in olive oil and vinegar is a classic accompaniment, adding peppery freshness and acidity to the plate. It’s a combination that feels light yet deeply satisfying, making this dish a favorite for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
What makes chicken Milanese so versatile is how easily it can be adapted. Top it with shaved Parmesan and arugula for a restaurant-style presentation, or serve it alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It’s also delicious with a spoonful of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a quick twist on chicken Parmesan.
Originating from Milan, this dish embodies the Italian philosophy of cooking – high-quality ingredients prepared simply and with care. It’s proof that you don’t need complicated techniques to make something memorable. With its crispy crust, tender meat, and fresh, vibrant accompaniments, chicken Milanese is a timeless classic that’s as delicious today as it’s always been. Each bite is a reminder of how satisfying simple, well-made food can be.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts boneless and skinless, pounded thin
- 1 cup breadcrumbs preferably Italian-style
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Add more oil as needed.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve Chicken Milanese hot with a side salad or lemon wedges, if desired.
Nutrition
Followed the recipe but it didn’t come out like the picture. Disappointed.
This is so yummmmy!!! Can’t believe how simple it was.
Yassss! I made this for dinner last night and it was a hit. So easy and delicious!
I didn’t have breadcrumbs so I used crushed crackers. Still turned out great!
I don’t know… the chicken was kinda dry for me. I might try again.
This was amazing! So crispy and flavorful. My family loved it!
Delish! I added some garlic powder to the breadcrumbs and it was perfect.
Easy peasy! I made this for dinner and now my kids think I’m a chef!
Chicken? I thought we were cooking beef? LOL confused!
Haha, it’s all about the chicken in this dish! But beef would be nice too! 😄
Why do you add Parmesan? Isn’t that kinda too much cheese? Seems weird.
You forgot to say how long it lasts in the fridge? I wanna meal prep!
Uhm, maybe it lasts long? I usually eat it all the same day haha. Who needs to wait?
Good question! I think it should last around 3-4 days in the fridge. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container!
Can I use chicken thighs instead? I don’t like breasts much.
It turned out kinda greasy, idk if I did somethin wrong? But still tastey.
I think it might have been too much oil or not draining the chicken well enough. Try using less oil next time and make sure to put it on paper towels right after frying. It’ll help a lot!
Greasy? That’s just how it is sometimes when frying. But if it was tasty, that’s what matters! Ain’t no shame in a lil greasiness.
What is ‘milanese’? Is that Italian? I just want some fried chicken.
Why do they call it ‘milanese’? Just sounds fancy. I think I’ll stick to my good ol’ fried chicken.
Yep, it’s Italian! Chicken Milanese is just fried chicken but with some Italian flair. You should definitely try it!
Not bad, but mine came out kinda soggy. I think I used too much oil.
This recipe is soooo good!! I made it last night and everyone was impressed!
It looks good, but I don’t know about making it so often. Fried chicken is unhealthy, right?
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I made it too and my kids loved it. Will definitely make again!
This was delish! My whole fam loved it! Will make again!
I’ve never made chicken like this before. The breading is crunchy but I think it could use more cheese.
More cheese sounds like a great idea! Maybe try mixing some mozzarella with the Parmesan? It’ll get melty and yummy! 😋
Easy recipe! I added a bit of garlic powder to the bread crumbs. Yum!
Garlic powder? That’s a great idea! I bet it adds a nice flavor. I’m gonna try that next time!
This was a hit at my dinner party! The chicken turned out crispy and juicy. Will make again!
Honestly, I’d rather just order from a restaurant. This sounds like a lot of work.
I get that, but cooking can be fun! Plus, homemade is always healthier. You got this!
Chicken + breadcrumbs = winner!!! 🔥🔥🔥
Absolutely! Can’t go wrong with crispy chicken! ✨🍽️
I dunno, breadcrumbs seem too dry sometimes. Does it really work?
This is basically chicken nuggets for adults. Thanks for the recipe!
Haha, I love that comparison! Chicken nuggets but fancy. Perfect for a dinner party!
Really? I don’t know, seems kinda complicated just to make nuggets. I think I’ll stick with the freezer ones.
I found it a lil bit hard to follow the steps, but the end result was decent. Not too bad!
Honestly, how hard can it be? Just bread and fry! Maybe you missed some easy part?
I totally get you! The steps can be a bit tricky at first. Glad it turned out decent for you!
I found this recipe a bit confusing with all the steps. I just threw it all together and it didn’t work out well…
Why do I have to pound the chicken? Sounds like a waste of time. Anyway, it worked okay I guess.
This isn’t real Italian chicken! Use more spices. Needs flavor!
Meh, I’ve had better. The coating fell off too easily, and I followed the recipe exactly.
I ain’t got time to pound chicken, I just used the whole breast raw! 😂 Didn’t work out.
yummy!!
Pretty good! But next time I’m gonna add some garlic to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Sounds like a great idea! Garlic always adds a nice touch. Can’t wait to try it with your suggestion!
Can someone explain why you need to use Italian breadcrumbs? What’s wrong with plain ones?
Italian breadcrumbs have herbs and spices that plain ones don’t, adding more flavor to the chicken! They’re essential for that authentic taste!
Chicken Milanese? More like Chicken YUM-anese! Loved this, so easy and delicious!
I dunno, it seems like too much oil. Isn’t frying unhealthy? I’ll stick to grilled chicken. 😬
Absolutely! It’s so easy to make and my family loved it too. Thanks for sharing! 😊
Simple and delicious! My kids ate it all up. Thanks for sharing!
LOVE this! My kids devoured it, even asked for seconds! ❤️
Absolutely loved this recipe! The chicken turned out perfectly crispy. Will make again!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! The crunchiness is the best part. What sides did you serve with it?
I found it kinda dry honestly. Maybe I overcooked it? Not sure if I’ll try again.