If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, chances are you've heard of Chicken Milanese. This classic dish consists of a breaded and fried chicken cutlet, typically served with a side salad. However, with a calorie count of 1010 per serving, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes when enjoying this meal.

While Chicken Milanese is undoubtedly tasty, it's also important to consider its nutritional value. A single serving contains 61 grams of fat, 82 grams of carbohydrates, and 52 grams of protein, making it a fairly balanced meal in terms of macronutrients.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at what makes up Chicken Milanese, how to prepare it, and some tips for making it healthier without sacrificing flavor. We'll also explore some delicious variations of this dish and recommend some tasty side dishes to serve alongside it.

What is Chicken Milanese?

Chicken Milanese is a traditional Italian dish that consists of a breaded and fried chicken cutlet. The name "Milanese" refers to the city of Milan, where the dish is said to have originated. The chicken cutlet is typically served with a side of arugula or other leafy greens dressed in a light vinaigrette. While the dish may be simple in terms of ingredients, it's beloved for its crispy, golden coating and tender, juicy chicken meat. It's a perfect meal for a cozy night in, or as the centerpiece of a dinner party with friends.

Calorie Count of Chicken Milanese

As previously mentioned, a single serving of Chicken Milanese contains 1010 calories. This may sound like a lot, but it's important to keep in mind that the dish is meant to be a full meal in and of itself. If you're concerned about the calorie count, consider cutting your portion in half and serving it alongside a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Value of Chicken Milanese

In addition to its high calorie count, Chicken Milanese also contains a significant amount of fat, carbohydrates, and protein. A single serving contains 61 grams of fat, 82 grams of carbohydrates, and 52 grams of protein. While this may not be the healthiest meal option, it can be balanced out with lighter meals throughout the day.

What are the Ingredients of Chicken Milanese?

To make Chicken Milanese, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 4 cups arugula
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Chicken Milanese

To prepare Chicken Milanese, follow these steps:

1. Pound the chicken breasts until they are of even thickness.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess.
5. Dip the chicken in the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
7. In a separate bowl, toss the arugula with lemon juice, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the chicken cutlets hot, topped with the dressed arugula.

Different Toppings for Chicken Milanese

While Chicken Milanese is delicious on its own, there are a few different toppings you can add to elevate the dish. Some ideas include:

• Sundried tomatoes and fresh basil
• Lemon and capers
• Roasted red peppers and goat cheese
• Marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese

Ways to Make Chicken Milanese Healthier

If you're looking to enjoy Chicken Milanese while still maintaining a healthy diet, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of white breadcrumbs to add fiber to the dish.
• Replace some of the olive oil with cooking spray to lower the fat content.
• Serve the chicken alongside a side salad or roasted vegetables to add more nutrients to the meal.
• Cut the portion size in half and save the other half for leftovers.

Recommended Side Dishes for Chicken Milanese

While Chicken Milanese can stand on its own as a meal, it's always nice to have some side dishes to serve alongside it. Here are a few options that pair well with Chicken Milanese:

• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Mixed green salad
• Roasted asparagus
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Sautéed mushrooms

Variations of Chicken Milanese

While the classic Chicken Milanese recipe is always a hit, there are plenty of variations you can try to switch things up. Some ideas include:

• Replacing the chicken with veal for a more traditional "Veal Milanese" dish.
• Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for added crunch.
• Adding chopped herbs to the breadcrumb mixture, like parsley or thyme.
• Baking the chicken instead of frying it for a healthier alternative.

Tips for Serving Chicken Milanese

To ensure that your Chicken Milanese comes out crispy and delicious, here are a few tips:

• Make sure your chicken is pounded to an even thickness before breading and frying.
• Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken, or it will steam and become soggy.
• Let the chicken rest on a paper towel-lined plate for a few minutes after frying to remove any excess oil.
• Serve the chicken hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness and acidity.