When it comes to crispy, flavorful dishes that are sure to impress, look no further than the classic Italian-American recipe: milanesa. This breaded and fried delight has been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, and with good reason – its crispy exterior gives way to tender, juicy meat or vegetables, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
From classic beef and pork options to more adventurous takes using chicken, fish, and even sweet potatoes, there’s a milanesa recipe out there for every occasion. And in this article, we’ll be exploring 18 different variations that are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special event, these recipes have got you covered.
Classic Beef Milanesa with Lemon Wedges
Classic Beef Milanesa with Lemon Wedges: A timeless Italian-American dish that combines tender beef cutlets with a crispy breading and tangy lemon wedges for a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 beef cutlets (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Pound the beef cutlets to an even thickness.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each beef cutlet in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat the melted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the breaded beef for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Chicken Milanesa with Parmesan Crust
Elevate your chicken dish with this Italian-inspired recipe, featuring crispy breaded cutlets and a rich Parmesan crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the breaded cutlets on a plate or tray.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of each cutlet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the Parmesan crust.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Milanesa with Garlic Aioli
A classic Argentinean dish gets a creamy twist with this recipe, featuring crispy pork cutlets served with a rich and tangy garlic aioli.
Ingredients:
For the Pork Milanesa:
– 4 pork cutlets (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Aioli:
– 1 head of garlic, roasted and mashed
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork cutlets with salt and pepper.
3. Dip each cutlet in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the pork for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve the Pork Milanesa hot with the Garlic Aioli, made by mixing all ingredients together in a bowl.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes.
Eggplant Milanesa with Fresh Herbs
Eggplant Milanesa with Fresh Herbs: A flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender eggplant slices with a crunchy breadcrumb coating and a burst of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Dip each eggplant slice into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated eggplant slices for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with garlic, parsley, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Veal Milanesa with Tomato Basil Salad
Experience the tender charm of veal wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating, served alongside a fresh and flavorful tomato basil salad. This recipe is a perfect blend of Italian flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
For the Veal Milanesa:
– 4 veal cutlets (about 1/4 inch thick)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
For the Tomato Basil Salad:
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the veal by pounding it thin between two sheets of plastic wrap.
2. Dip each cutlet in the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Fry the veal in hot olive oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Serve the Veal Milanesa with the Tomato Basil Salad, made by combining diced tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Milanesa with Chipotle Mayo
A twist on the classic Argentinean dish, this spicy milanesa combines crispy breaded cutlets with a bold chipotle mayo for a flavor explosion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chipotle mayo (see below)
Chipotle Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded cutlets until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the milanesas from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve with chipotle mayo spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Milanesa Stuffed with Mozzarella
Elevate your Italian-inspired meals with this creative twist on the classic breaded and fried cutlet. This recipe combines crispy breading with gooey mozzarella cheese for a satisfying and flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese in the center of each breaded chicken breast.
6. Fold the chicken over the cheese to form a pocket, then secure with toothpicks if needed.
7. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the stuffed cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Milanesa Napolitana with Ham and Cheese
A crispy and flavorful twist on the classic Milanese, this recipe adds salty ham and melted cheese to the tender cutlets for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken or veal cutlets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 4 slices of ham (such as prosciutto or serrano)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each cutlet in the egg, then coat with flour mixture.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add breaded cutlets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
5. Top each cutlet with ham, cheese, and parsley (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish Milanesa with Tartar Sauce
A classic Italian dish gets a modern twist! This recipe brings together crispy fish cutlets and creamy tartar sauce for a mouth-watering combination.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod or tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1/4 cup tartar sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each fish fillet in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While the fish is cooking, warm the tartar sauce by gently heating it over low heat.
7. Serve the Fish Milanesa hot with a dollop of warmed tartar sauce and garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Milanesa with Cranberry Glaze
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this innovative fusion of Italian and American flavors. Crispy turkey cutlets are breaded to perfection, then smothered in a tangy cranberry glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless turkey breast cutlets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each turkey cutlet in the flour mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook breaded turkey 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce and honey. Bring to a simmer over low heat.
6. Serve turkey cutlets with warm cranberry glaze spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Milanesa with Yogurt Dip
This Italian-inspired recipe combines the flavors of crispy breaded zucchini slices with a creamy yogurt dip, perfect for a light and satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Yogurt Dip ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each zucchini slice in the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated zucchini slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
6. For the Yogurt Dip, mix all ingredients together and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (frying time) + 30 minutes (chill time)
Milanesa Sandwich with Avocado Spread
A twist on the classic Argentine sandwich, this recipe combines crispy breaded chicken cutlets with creamy avocado spread and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 slices of cheese (such as provolone or cheddar)
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and breadcrumbs.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg and then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing a fried chicken cutlet on each bun, followed by a slice of cheese and a spoonful of avocado spread.
5. Cook for an additional minute to melt the cheese.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Milanesa with Lime Crema
Elevate your sweet potato game with this creative take on the traditional Italian dish, Milanesa. This recipe combines crispy fried sweet potatoes with a tangy and creamy lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lime Crema (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
4. Dip each sweet potato round into the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Fry the coated sweet potatoes in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve with Lime Crema.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Milanesa Tostadas with Refried Beans
This recipe combines the crispy, breaded goodness of Milanesas with the comforting warmth of refried beans. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Refried beans (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally coat in breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with refried beans and shredded cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Crusted Milanesa with Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your Italian-inspired dinner game with this flavorful and crispy herb-crusted milanesa served alongside roasted potatoes. A perfect combination of tender chicken cutlets and comforting spuds.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook milanesa for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown. Transfer to a baking sheet.
5. Roast potatoes on the same baking sheet as the milanesa for about 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: approximately 30-35 minutes
Milanesa Tacos with Pico de Gallo
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines crispy milanesa-style chicken with fresh and zesty pico de gallo. A perfect fusion of flavors and textures for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Pico de Gallo (see below for recipe)
– Tortillas, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip chicken breasts in the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry breaded chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with Pico de Gallo, tortillas, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese (if using).
Pico de Gallo Recipe:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes (includes frying time)
Air-Fryer Milanesa with Crispy Coating
This recipe takes the classic Italian-American dish to new heights by using an air fryer to achieve a crispy coating without deep-frying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthier version of milanesa.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, then into the beaten egg, and finally into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Spray with vegetable oil spray.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Milanesa Sliders with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your slider game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines crispy milanesa chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and creamy mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Mozzarella cheese slices
Instructions:
1. Prepare the milanesa chicken by pounding the breasts to about 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Dip each breast in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, caramelize the onions by cooking them in a pan with garlic over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing cooked chicken on buns, topping with caramelized onions and mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 crispy Milanesa recipes! From classic beef and chicken options to innovative vegetable and fish dishes, there’s something for every occasion. Try our Beef Milanesa with Lemon Wedges or Chicken Milanesa with Parmesan Crust for a nostalgic twist. Spice things up with Spicy Milanesa with Chipotle Mayo or go sweet with Sweet Potato Milanesa with Lime Crema. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to impress.
