Are you looking for a dish that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve? Look no further than the classic Italian-American recipe: Milanesa! This crispy, breaded, and fried cutlet has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. From traditional beef and chicken milanesas to creative vegetarian and vegan options, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering recipes that will take your meal game to the next level.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution, these crispy milanesa recipes are sure to please. With an array of flavors, textures, and presentation styles, you’ll find inspiration for every occasion. From classic comfort food to international twists, we’ve got you covered. So, which one will you try first?
Classic Beef Milanesa with Lemon Wedges
This classic recipe from Italy is a staple of any meal, featuring tenderized beef cutlets coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture and served with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 thin cutlets (1/4 inch thick)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Pound the beef cutlets to 1/8 inch thickness.
2. In a shallow dish, beat the egg. In another dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each cutlet in the egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the milanesa for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Chicken Milanesa with Parmesan Crust
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and flavorful dish, where tender chicken breasts are wrapped in a crunchy Parmesan crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Milanesa with Garlic Aioli
This recipe takes the traditional breaded and fried pork cutlet to the next level by adding a rich and creamy garlic aioli. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork cutlets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 cup milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
2. Dip each pork cutlet in the egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded pork cutlets for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, mix garlic and mayonnaise together in a small bowl.
5. Serve the crispy pork milanesa with the creamy garlic aioli spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Eggplant Milanesa with Fresh Herbs
This recipe takes the classic Italian breaded and fried eggplant dish to new heights by incorporating fresh herbs. The result is a flavorful and aromatic meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice in the flour mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded eggplant slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Transfer fried eggplant to a baking dish and top each slice with garlic, parsley, and basil.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Milanesa with Chipotle Mayo
Elevate your traditional milanesa game with a spicy twist and creamy chipotle mayo.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chipotle mayo ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture (beaten eggs), then coat with the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Dredge in breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Prepare chipotle mayo by mixing mayonnaise, chipotle pepper, and lime juice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Milanesa Napolitana with Ham and Cheese
This recipe combines the tender flavors of breaded and fried cutlets, juicy ham, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 slices of ham
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the breading station by placing flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate dishes.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded cutlets until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Place a slice of ham on top of each fried cutlet, followed by a slice of mozzarella cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Zucchini Milanesa with Tzatziki Sauce
Elevate your summer meals with this crispy and creamy fusion of Italian-style breaded zucchini slices served with a tangy and refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
2. Dip each zucchini slice 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 zucchini slices until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Serve hot with Tzatziki Sauce (see below).
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (including preparation time)
Turkey Milanesa with Cranberry Glaze
Elevate your holiday menu with this innovative take on the Italian classic, featuring tender turkey cutlets breaded and fried to perfection, served with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless turkey breast cutlets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cranberry Glaze (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and breadcrumbs.
2. Dip each turkey cutlet in the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the turkey cutlets for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
4. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cranberry Glaze:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
Simmer the ingredients over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. Brush the glaze over the fried turkey cutlets and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Milanesa de Soja (Soy Milanesa) for Vegans
A plant-based twist on the classic Argentinean dish, this Soy Milanesa is a crispy and flavorful vegan version of the original. This recipe uses extra-firm tofu as the base and serves it with a side of tangy tartar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into 4 slices
– 1 cup of soy milk
– 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade) for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together soy milk, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
2. Dip each tofu slice into the soy mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Roll each coated tofu slice in breadcrumbs to coat completely.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the breaded tofu slices for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain the Milanesa on paper towels and serve with tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Milanesa Sandwich with Avocado and Tomato
This recipe combines the tender goodness of breaded and fried cutlets with the creaminess of avocado and the freshness of tomato. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this sandwich is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 milanesa (breaded and fried cutlets)
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 4 slices of white bread
– Mayonnaise or aioli (optional)
– Lettuce leaves and salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Slice the milanesa into thin strips.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few strips of milanesa between two slices of bread.
3. Add a slice of avocado and tomato on top of the milanesa.
4. Drizzle with mayonnaise or aioli, if desired.
5. Top with lettuce leaves and a pinch of salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on cooking time for milanesa)
Fish Milanesa with Tartar Sauce
A classic Argentinean dish that combines tender fish with a rich and creamy tartar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod or haddock fillets, about 6 oz each
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar Sauce (recipe below)
Tartar Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped pickles
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°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 with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat about 1/4 inch (6 mm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated fish for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with Tartar Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: 4-6 minutes
– Total cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Potato Milanesa with Smoked Paprika
Take the humble sweet potato to new heights with this Italian-inspired dish, where tender sweet potato slices are coated in a light and crispy breading, then finished with a smoky kick from smoked paprika. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel sweet potatoes and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each sweet potato slice into the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry coated sweet potato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and tender.
7. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Milanesa with Mushroom Gravy
This classic Italian-American dish combines tender breaded cutlets with a rich and savory mushroom gravy, perfect for a comforting dinner. With this recipe, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the breading station by mixing flour, paprika, salt, and pepper on a plate.
3. Dip each chicken breast in flour mixture, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs.
4. Pan-fry breaded cutlets until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. In another pan, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender. Add heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Serve the Milanesa with Mushroom Gravy hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lamb Milanesa with Mint Yogurt Sauce
This Argentine-inspired dish combines the flavors of crispy lamb cutlets and a refreshing mint yogurt sauce, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb cutlets (about 1 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mint Yogurt Sauce (recipe below)
Mint Yogurt Sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each lamb cutlet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured cutlets in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
6. Transfer to oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with Mint Yogurt Sauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Milanesa Tostada with Refried Beans
Transform the flavors of Mexico into a satisfying snack or light meal with this simple recipe. Crispy breaded chicken, creamy refried beans, and melted cheese come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 can refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 4 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Warm refried beans according to package instructions.
5. Assemble by placing a fried chicken breast on each tortilla, topping with refried beans and shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Cauliflower Milanesa with Spicy Mayo
A twist on the classic Argentinean dish, this recipe combines crispy breaded cauliflower florets with a creamy and spicy mayo for a flavorful and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Mayo (see below)
Spicy Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the cauliflower until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. To make Spicy Mayo, combine mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lime juice in a small bowl.
6. Serve the fried cauliflower with Spicy Mayo for dipping.
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes (frying time: 10-12 minutes)
Milanesa with Chimichurri Sauce
Get ready to experience the flavors of Argentina with this classic recipe that combines tender breaded cutlets with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Milanesa is a staple dish in many Latin American households.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chimichurri Sauce (recipe below)
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Fry the breaded cutlets in hot oil until golden brown and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes per side).
4. Serve immediately with Chimichurri Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Milanesa Bites with Dipping Sauces
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful Milanesa Bites, perfect for dipping into a variety of sauces. In just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a tasty treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Dipping sauces (see below)
Dipping Sauces:
– Marinara sauce
– Garlic aioli
– Ranch dressing
– Honey mustard
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the Milanesa Bites for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your choice of dipping sauces.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes total
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the crispy, savory goodness of Milanesa! This Italian-inspired dish has evolved into a global phenomenon with endless variations. From classic beef and chicken to vegetarian and vegan options like eggplant and sweet potato, there’s something for every taste bud. In this article, discover 18 mouthwatering recipes that add a twist to the original, including spicy chipotle mayo, creamy tzatziki sauce, and tangy cranberry glaze. Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying sandwich or a flavorful entree, these crispy Milanesa creations will satisfy your cravings!
