Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, crispy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make yet sophisticated enough to impress, Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese offers the perfect balance of tenderness, crunch, and Italian-inspired taste. The combination of seasoned breadcrumbs, juicy chicken, and fresh lemon zest will take your taste buds on a delightful journey, and it’s an ideal dish for a weekday dinner or special occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese is a modern twist on the classic Italian dish, "Cotoletta alla Milanese." It’s a simple yet mouthwatering recipe that features chicken breasts pounded thin, breaded in a mix of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and herbs, then fried to golden perfection.

This dish is known for its crispiness on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside. It’s traditionally served with a refreshing salad, some lemon wedges, and often a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of tangy salsa verde.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Chicken breasts (2 large pieces) – For the main protein, boneless skinless chicken breasts are pounded thin for a delicate texture.
• Breadcrumbs (around 1 cup) – The base for the breading, giving it the characteristic crunch.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup) – Finely grated, Parmesan adds a rich, umami flavor to the breadcrumbs.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons) – Chopped, this adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Flour (for dredging) – Helps the egg wash adhere to the chicken, forming a solid base for the breading.
• Eggs (2) – Whisked, these are used to coat the chicken after the flour and before the breadcrumb mixture.
• Olive oil (for frying) – For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
• Lemon (for zesting and wedges) – Adds a zesty freshness to the dish.
• Salt and pepper – To season the chicken and breadcrumb mixture.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Meat mallet or rolling pin – To pound the chicken breasts to an even, thin thickness.
• Shallow bowls – To hold the flour, egg wash, and breadcrumb mixture for dipping.
• Large skillet or frying pan – For frying the breaded chicken to a golden crisp.
• Tongs – To handle the chicken while frying.
• Plate lined with paper towels – To drain excess oil from the fried chicken.
• Zester or grater – For zesting the lemon.
• Knife and chopping board – For chopping the parsley and cutting the lemon into wedges.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese is a straightforward process, with a few easy steps to follow. Here’s how you do it:

1. Prep the Chicken:
   Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them thin (about 1/2 inch thick). This helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly, ensuring a tender result.

2. Set up your breading station:
   In one shallow bowl, place the flour and season with salt and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Coat the Chicken:
   Dip each chicken breast into the flour, making sure to coat it lightly. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip it into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off, and finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coat of breadcrumbs and cheese.

4. Fry the Chicken:
   Heat a good glug of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. If needed, fry the chicken in batches, adding more oil if necessary.

5. Drain and Serve:
   Once the chicken is crispy and cooked through, remove it from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

6. Garnish and Serve:
   Serve your Chicken Milanese with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, a few lemon wedges on the side, and a drizzle of olive oil. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Expert Tips

• Pounding the chicken evenly: Be sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness so they cook uniformly. Thin pieces cook faster, and you’ll get that satisfying crispiness.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch: For even more texture, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They create a lighter, airier crunch, which complements the chicken beautifully.
• Flavor the breading: Feel free to add additional herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor, such as garlic powder, dried oregano, or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Lemon zest: Don’t skip the lemon zest. It adds a fresh, aromatic touch that brightens up the entire dish. You can also squeeze fresh lemon juice on top just before serving for added zest.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours before frying. This allows the breadcrumbs to set better and results in an even crispier coating.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese is a fantastic dish to add to your cooking repertoire. Its simplicity and balance of flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress anyone you serve it to.

With its golden, crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for any occasion. Plus, with just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be savoring this Italian-inspired classic in no time!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese is a beloved dish for its crispy, golden coating and tender, juicy chicken. However, there are numerous ways to personalize and tweak the recipe to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some variations to try:

1. Herbed Breadcrumbs: Add a fresh twist to the breadcrumb coating by incorporating a variety of finely chopped herbs such as rosemary, thyme, basil, or parsley. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of aromatic freshness.
2. Gluten-Free Option: For those avoiding gluten, simply replace the traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, almond meal, or even crushed rice crackers. The result is just as crispy and delightful!
3. Cheese Lovers’ Milanese: For a richer and more indulgent version, mix some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese into the breadcrumbs. This will create a savory, cheesy crust that pairs wonderfully with the mild flavor of chicken.
4. Spicy Milanese: Add a kick to your Chicken Milanese by mixing chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the breadcrumbs. For an extra punch, you can also make a spicy dipping sauce using hot sauce or sriracha mixed with mayonnaise or yogurt.
5. Vegetarian Option: While the recipe is designed for chicken, you can substitute it with a vegetarian alternative like thick slices of eggplant or zucchini. Coat these vegetables in the same breadcrumb mixture and fry them up for a crispy, vegetarian Milanese experience.
6. Lemon and Garlic Marinade: Before breading and frying the chicken, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, and a touch of rosemary. This will infuse the meat with additional flavors that complement the crispy exterior.
7. Asian-Inspired Milanese: Incorporate some sesame seeds into the breadcrumbs, and add a little soy sauce and grated ginger to the egg wash. This Asian-inspired variation will give your Chicken Milanese an intriguing fusion flavor, perfect with a soy-based dipping sauce.

These variations allow you to experiment with different flavors and textures, giving the dish an exciting new dimension with each iteration!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you have leftover Chicken Milanese, it’s important to store it properly to preserve its crispy texture and delicious flavor. Follow these guidelines to ensure the leftovers are as tasty as the fresh batch:

1. Let It Cool First: Before storing, allow the Chicken Milanese to cool down to room temperature. Placing hot food directly into a container can lead to condensation, making the crust soggy.
2. Wrap It Up Properly: Use parchment paper or wax paper to loosely wrap the chicken before placing it in an airtight container. This helps preserve the crispiness of the breading while preventing moisture from making the coating soggy.
3. Refrigeration: Store the Chicken Milanese in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. If you plan to store it for a longer period, freezing is the best option.
4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you have more leftovers than you can consume within a couple of days, you can freeze the Chicken Milanese. To do so, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. Reheating: When reheating, the goal is to restore some of the crispiness that may have been lost during storage. For the best results, use an oven or air fryer to reheat the chicken at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. This will help the breading crisp up again, making it as close to freshly cooked as possible. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy.

By following these best practices, your leftovers will remain as tasty and enjoyable as when the dish was first made!

What Goes Well With Chicken Milanese?

Chicken Milanese is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a fantastic meal for any occasion. Here are some excellent options that complement the crispy chicken:

1. Simple Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach can be a perfect side dish. A zesty lemon vinaigrette with a touch of olive oil, salt, and pepper helps balance the richness of the chicken. You could also add a handful of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, or radishes for extra crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make a great pairing. The caramelization from roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies, which contrasts nicely with the savory, crispy chicken.
3. Pasta: A light pasta salad or a plate of aglio e olio (spaghetti with garlic and olive oil) can serve as a delicious accompaniment. You can also try a creamy pasta like fettuccine Alfredo to add richness, making the meal even more indulgent.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a dollop of butter, garlic, and fresh herbs are a hearty side that pairs beautifully with the light and crispy chicken. You could even opt for a lighter version by making mashed cauliflower.
5. Lemon and Herb Rice: Fragrant rice flavored with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, and a squeeze of lemon juice, works wonderfully alongside Chicken Milanese. The acidity of the lemon balances the crispy chicken, making each bite refreshing.
6. Sautéed Spinach or Kale: For a nutrient-packed side, sauté some spinach or kale in olive oil with garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. This will add a bit of earthy flavor and a healthy touch to the meal.
7. Crusty Bread: To soak up any juices or sauce, serve your Chicken Milanese with some rustic crusty bread. A warm baguette or ciabatta can be the perfect accompaniment to this dish.

These side dishes enhance the flavor profile of Chicken Milanese and create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy every palate.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese is a wonderfully versatile dish that can be customized in many ways to suit different tastes, from gluten-free options to spicy variations. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this recipe offers a crispy, golden exterior with tender, juicy chicken inside.

Pair it with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes, and you have a complete meal that is as delicious as it is satisfying. By following the best practices for storing and reheating leftovers, you can enjoy this dish for days to come, making it a fantastic option for meal planning and leftovers.

FAQs

What Is The Key To Making Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese Crispy?

The key to making Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese crispy is ensuring the chicken is well-coated with breadcrumbs and seasoned properly. Additionally, frying the chicken in hot oil (at around 180°C/350°F) ensures it becomes golden and crispy.

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead Of Chicken Breasts For This Recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a more flavorful and juicy result. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may need a slightly longer frying time.

What Type Of Breadcrumbs Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese?

For the best texture and flavor, use panko breadcrumbs. They are lighter and crisp up nicely when fried. You can also use fresh breadcrumbs if preferred, but panko gives a superior crunch.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken fillets in advance by coating them in breadcrumbs and refrigerating them until you’re ready to fry. This helps the coating stick better and enhances the crunch when fried.

Is There A Way To Make This Recipe Healthier?

To make the recipe healthier, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Coat the chicken with a light layer of olive oil or use a non-stick spray before baking at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What Sides Go Well With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese?

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese pairs well with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of spaghetti with lemon and olive oil. A light, zesty salad with arugula, tomatoes, and parmesan is a popular choice.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring that your flour is also gluten-free. There are many excellent gluten-free breadcrumb options available at most grocery stores.

What Is The Best Oil For Frying The Chicken In Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Milanese Recipe?

The best oil for frying Chicken Milanese is one with a high smoke point, such as sunflower oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil. These oils fry the chicken crisply without burning.

How Do I Know When The Chicken Is Fully Cooked In This Recipe?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Additionally, the breading should be golden brown and crispy. You can check by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s no longer pink.

What Is The Origin Of Chicken Milanese, And Is It Similar To Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Milanese originates from Italy and is typically served as a simple breaded and fried chicken cutlet. While similar to Chicken Parmesan, Milanese is usually served without the tomato sauce and melted cheese on top, making it a lighter option.