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When I first discovered the beauty of Chicken Milanese paired with spaghetti arrabbiata, it was as if I had uncovered a hidden treasure in my kitchen. Picture this: the moment that crispy, golden chicken hits the plate, a slew of comforting aromas envelops the room, making it impossible to resist. I fondly recall the first time I served this dish at a dinner party; my friends were utterly captivated by the play of textures and flavors—crunchy chicken, tender pasta, and a zesty, slightly spicy sauce that warms you from the inside out.

This dish isn’t just a feast for the palate; it’s a perfect blend of comfort and flair, ideal for both a casual weeknight meal and a special occasion. Plus, the versatility of Chicken Milanese means you can switch things up with variations like mustard or aubergine, making it a go-to recipe that adapts to your mood or dietary preferences. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into creating this culinary delight!

Why is Chicken Milanese irresistible?

Crispy, mouthwatering goodness: The perfectly golden crust on the chicken is just the beginning of this flavor explosion.
Comfort at its finest: Paired with spaghetti and a rich arrabbiata sauce, this dish delivers a comforting experience that warms the soul.
Versatile flavors: Enjoy variations that cater to meat lovers and vegetarians alike, like Mustard Chicken Milanese or Aubergine Parmesan Milanese.
Quick and rewarding: Whip it up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve this at your next dinner party, and watch your friends be amazed by the burst of flavors in every bite!

Chicken Milanese Ingredients

• Unlock the secrets to this crispy classic!

For the Chicken

Chicken Supremes (2) – Choose skinless for a leaner option, or use chicken breasts for a large serving.
Plain Flour (100g) – Coats the chicken for that perfect crunch; gluten-free flour can be used if needed.
Egg (1 large, free-range) – Binds the breadcrumbs; a flax egg works as a vegan substitute.
White Breadcrumbs (60g) – Adds the essential crunch; swap with panko breadcrumbs for extra texture.
Vegetable Oil – For frying; use peanut oil for a richer flavor.
Unsalted Butter (20g) – Adds richness to the dish, but feel free to omit for a dairy-free version.

For the Arrabbiata Sauce

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Provides a rich base for the sauce; any light oil can work as a substitute.
Garlic (2 cloves) – A cornerstone of flavor; sautéing it will mellow the taste if preferred.
Fresh Rosemary (2 sprigs) – Infuses the sauce with herbal essence; can be swapped for thyme if desired.
Lemon (1) – Brightens the sauce; lime can serve as an alternative for the same zesty kick.
Dried Chilli & Fresh Red Chillies (2 each) – Adds heat to the arrabbiata; adjust to your spice preference.
Anchovies (optional) – Provides umami depth; capers can be used for a vegetarian version.
Gin (50ml) – Elevates the sauce, but feel free to leave this out if you prefer.
Passata (680g jar) – The base for your sauce; feel free to use crushed tomatoes instead.
Crème Fraîche (1 heaped tablespoon) – Adds creaminess to the sauce; sour cream can be a suitable replacement.

For Serving

Cheese (Spenwood or Pecorino) – A savory topping for that rich finish; nutritional yeast can substitute for a vegan option.
Spaghetti (150g) – The quintessential pairing; try using penne for a different texture.

Now that you have all the Chicken Milanese ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress everyone at the table!

How to Make Chicken Milanese

Prepare the Arrabbiata Sauce: In a pan, heat about 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic until golden brown, then add 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary and the zest from 1 lemon, cooking for a minute. Stir in 2 dried chilies and 2 fresh red chilies, then add anchovies if desired. Pour in 680g of passata and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir in 1 heaped tablespoon of crème fraîche and 50ml of gin if using, then set aside.
Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook 150g of spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it and toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Chicken: Set up a breading station. In one bowl, place 100g of plain flour. In a second bowl, beat 1 large egg. In a third bowl, combine 60g of white breadcrumbs with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken supreme in flour first, then dip in egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the breaded chicken and fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Watch closely to ensure it doesn’t burn!
Plate the Dish: On each plate, serve a generous portion of spaghetti as your base. Top it with the crispy chicken and ladle over the luscious arrabbiata sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of cheese on top for an added touch of delight.

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley to brighten the plate.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Milanese

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Milanese separately from spaghetti and sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain crispiness.

Freezer: Freeze breaded, uncooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before frying for optimal texture.

Reheating: Reheat fried chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crunch. For sauce, gently warm on the stovetop.

Assembly Tip: When serving leftovers, reheat components separately to keep the Chicken Milanese crispy and the spaghetti from becoming soggy in the microwave.

Expert Tips for Chicken Milanese

Perfect Frying Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying by testing with a breadcrumb; it should sizzle. This ensures a crispy Chicken Milanese.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches if necessary to maintain an optimal frying temperature. Overcrowding can lead to soggy chicken instead of a crispy texture.
Breadcrumb Coating Secrets: For a fluffier coating, beat the egg until it reaches a pale yellow color. This adds air and enhances the crunch on your Chicken Milanese.
Customize Spiciness: Adjust the heat level of the arrabbiata sauce by adding more or fewer dried and fresh chilies to suit your taste.
Prep Ahead: Make the arrabbiata sauce in advance for a quicker dinner prep. Store it in the fridge, and simply reheat while cooking the chicken and spaghetti!

What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti Arrabbiata?

Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that beautifully complement this crispy delight.

Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery slices are perfect for soaking up the rich arrabbiata sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor combination.
Fresh Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, this peppery salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken and pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies bring warmth and a pop of color to your plate, offering earthy flavors that pair wonderfully with the crispy chicken.
Pesto Zoodles: A low-carb alternative, these spiralized zucchini noodles tossed in basil pesto elevate the meal while still being light and exciting on the palate.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, asparagus adds a gourmet touch, and its mild flavor complements the robust arrabbiata sauce.
Limoncello Spritz: Finished your meal with this refreshing drink, combining lemon, prosecco, and a hint of sweetness for a balancing burst of citrus.
Tiramisu: End on a sweet note—this classic Italian dessert provides a creamy and indulgent finish, perfectly capping off your meal.

Chicken Milanese Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe because making it your own is half the fun!

Dairy-Free: Omit the crème fraîche and cheese, using coconut cream as a rich, creamy alternative.
Vegetarian: Swap chicken for slices of aubergine, breading and frying until golden for a delightful twist.
Low-Carb: Substitute spaghetti with spiralized zucchini for a refreshing and lighter summer dish.
Nutty Crunch: Use crushed almonds or walnuts instead of breadcrumbs for an added crunch and unique flavor.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes with the breadcrumbs for a fiery crunch in every bite!
Mustard Twist: Brush the chicken with Dijon mustard before coating for a tangy, zesty flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Garlic Lovers: Add minced garlic to the breadcrumbs for a flavorful coating that elevates the dish.
Family Style: Layer crispy chicken over a bed of spaghetti, then pour the arrabbiata sauce all over for a heartier sharing dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti Arrabbiata are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prep the arrabbiata sauce and store it in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen over time. Simply reheat the sauce before serving. Additionally, you can bread the chicken and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours; just fry it right before serving to retain that crispy texture. To maintain quality, ensure the chicken is well-coated and chilled, and remember to keep pasta and sauce separate until you’re ready to plate. With these make-ahead strategies, you’ll enjoy a delightful dinner with minimal effort!

Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti Arrabbiata Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Milanese?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken supremes or skinless chicken breasts for a lean, juicy option. The chicken should be relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking, ensuring that the exterior gets perfectly crispy without overcooking the inside.

How should I store leftover Chicken Milanese?
Very! Store the leftover Chicken Milanese separately from the spaghetti and sauce in airtight containers. This helps maintain the chicken’s crispiness. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up!

Can Chicken Milanese be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken for up to 2 months. To do this, lay the breaded chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid, then transfer to freezer bags. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before frying for the best texture.

How can I ensure my Chicken Milanese stays crispy when reheating?
Yes! To restore the crispiness, reheat fried chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps keep the exterior crunchy. For the arrabbiata sauce, gently warm it on the stovetop until heated through.

Can I make Chicken Milanese gluten-free?
Very! Just substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the classic dish while accommodating dietary needs. Also, check that your vegetable oil is gluten-free if you’re sensitive!

What if my chicken turns out soggy?
Oh no! If your Chicken Milanese turns out soggy, it could be due to overcrowding the pan or not having the oil hot enough. To troubleshoot, always test the oil with a breadcrumb before frying. Additionally, make sure to fry in batches if needed and allow the cooked chicken to drain on paper towels. This will help absorb excess oil and keep that delightful crunch!