Crispy Lemon Parmesan Baked Chicken Milanese: An Easy Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe
Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this incredibly flavorful and easy Crispy Lemon Parmesan Baked Chicken Milanese. Forget the traditional frying mess; this recipe delivers all the satisfying crunch and golden perfection of classic Chicken Milanese, but with a healthier, hassle-free baked approach. Served as a complete sheet pan dinner, juicy chicken cutlets are accompanied by tender baby potatoes and vibrant green beans, all generously coated in a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. It’s the ultimate combination of convenience, health, and gourmet taste, making it an instant family favorite.
This innovative take on Lemon Chicken Milanese allows you to achieve beautifully crisp, breaded chicken cutlets—often referred to as schnitzels or milanesa—baked directly in the oven. This method captures that deep-fried taste and texture without the need for excessive oil, offering a lighter yet equally indulgent meal. With bright lemon, savory Parmesan, and fragrant garlic infusing every bite, this sheet pan wonder proves that wholesome can be incredibly delicious.
Why This Baked Chicken Milanese Recipe is a Game Changer
This Baked Chicken Milanese stands out as a culinary triumph because it perfectly marries the best of both worlds. It retains the beloved crispy, golden texture and rich flavor profile of traditional fried chicken cutlets, while embracing a lighter, more convenient approach by baking them in the oven. This method eliminates the mess and extra oil associated with frying, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
Beyond the ease of preparation, this recipe transforms into a complete sheet pan dinner, effortlessly bringing together the main protein and nutritious side dishes. Pairing the perfectly cooked chicken with tender, roasted baby potatoes and crisp green beans ensures a well-rounded meal with minimal cleanup. Each component is elevated by the incredible blend of lemon, garlic, and Parmesan, which infuses every element with a vibrant brightness and savory depth. A generous drizzle of fragrant garlic butter sauce acts as the unifying force, tying all the flavors together into a cohesive, irresistible dish that feels just as indulgent as a classic fried lemon chicken Milanese, but with a fraction of the effort.
Effortless Weeknight Dining
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its sheer simplicity. Instead of juggling multiple pans and dealing with hot oil splatters, everything comes together on a single baking sheet. This means less time cooking and significantly less time cleaning up afterwards. It’s an ideal solution for those busy evenings when you crave a homemade, satisfying meal but are short on time. The “set it and forget it” nature of oven baking allows you to focus on other tasks while dinner practically makes itself.
Healthier Indulgence
For those looking for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor, this oven-baked Chicken Milanese is a revelation. By baking instead of frying, you reduce the overall fat content, making it a more wholesome choice for your family. The chicken still achieves an incredible crispness, thanks to the breadcrumb coating and strategic baking technique, fooling your taste buds into thinking it’s deep-fried. It’s guilt-free comfort food at its finest.
A Symphony of Flavors
The carefully chosen ingredients create a harmonious blend of tastes. The zest and tang of fresh lemon juice cut through the richness of the chicken and butter, providing a refreshing counterpoint. Grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully into the breading, adding a nutty, salty, and savory layer that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor. And, of course, garlic—used in both the chicken marinade and the butter sauce—provides an aromatic depth that is simply irresistible. This combination ensures every forkful is bursting with deliciousness.
Key Ingredients for Your Perfect Baked Chicken Milanese
This baked Chicken Milanese recipe relies on a selection of everyday ingredients that, when combined, deliver an explosion of flavor and texture. Understanding each component’s role can help you master this dish and even inspire creative variations.
- Chicken Breasts: We recommend using lean, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For the best results and even cooking, pound them to a uniform thickness, typically about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook quickly and ensures a tender, juicy cutlet. If you prefer a richer flavor and slightly more forgiving texture, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used, though they might require a slightly longer cooking time.
- Breadcrumbs: The secret to that irresistible golden crunch without frying! While regular breadcrumbs work, Panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their lighter, airier texture, which results in an even crispier coating. You can use plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs; if using plain, consider adding a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or basil for extra flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is non-negotiable for the best taste. It melts into the breadcrumb coating, adding a nutty, salty, and savory depth that complements the lemon and garlic beautifully. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture, so grate your own if possible.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is crucial. It not only brightens up the chicken and vegetables but also helps to tenderize the chicken slightly during the optional marinating step. It cuts through the richness of the garlic butter sauce, providing a refreshing zing that elevates the entire dish. Always opt for fresh lemon juice over bottled for superior flavor.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic is used generously in both the chicken marinade and the butter sauce. Its pungent, aromatic qualities are fundamental to the dish’s robust flavor profile. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a substitute, but use less (about 1/2 teaspoon of powder per clove of fresh garlic).
- Eggs: Large eggs are used to create the essential binder for the breadcrumb coating. They help the Parmesan and breadcrumbs adhere beautifully to the chicken, ensuring an even, crisp crust.
- Parsley, Salt, and Pepper: These seasonings are vital for enhancing the overall taste. Fresh chopped parsley adds a touch of herbaceous freshness to the marinade and as a garnish, while salt and pepper bring out all the other flavors.
- Baby Potatoes: Quartered baby potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red potatoes) are ideal for roasting alongside the chicken. Their creamy interior and slightly crisp exterior provide a comforting and hearty side. Ensure they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Green Beans: Fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into thirds, add a vibrant color, crisp-tender texture, and healthy dose of vegetables to the meal. They cook quickly on the sheet pan, absorbing the delicious garlic butter.
- Butter: Melted butter forms the base of our irresistible garlic butter sauce. It adds a luxurious richness and helps to ensure the potatoes and green beans are perfectly seasoned and flavorful.
Note: Please see the full recipe card at the bottom for a complete list of ingredients with precise measurements and nutritional information.
How To Make Crispy Lemon Parmesan Baked Chicken Milanese: Step-by-Step
Creating this delicious sheet pan Chicken Milanese is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps for a perfectly crispy, flavorful meal:
- Preheat Oven & Prep Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). While the oven heats, lightly grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray or a thin, even coating of oil. A generously sized sheet pan is key to ensuring proper spacing for crispy results, so avoid overcrowding.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large, shallow bowl (wide enough to accommodate the chicken cutlets), whisk together the large egg, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and pepper until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is uniform. This will be the base of your chicken’s flavor.
- Marinate Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Add the chicken breasts to the egg mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. For a deeper, more infused flavor and slightly more tender chicken, cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes. If you’re short on time, you can proceed directly to the next step, but a brief marinade makes a noticeable difference.
- Mix Crumb Coating: In a separate shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs (Panko for best results!) with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly to ensure the Parmesan is evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs. This creates the signature crispy crust.
- Coat the Chicken: One by one, remove each marinated chicken piece from the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly but firmly on all sides to ensure a thick, even coating. A good coating is essential for maximum crispness.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken cutlets onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow air circulation and even cooking. Lightly spray the top of the chicken with cooking oil spray; this helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown and crispy exterior. Scatter the quartered baby potatoes around the chicken in a single layer.
- Prepare Garlic Butter & First Bake: In a small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the remaining minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Pour half of this aromatic garlic butter mixture over the potatoes on the baking sheet and toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated. Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This initial bake allows the chicken to begin crisping and the potatoes to start roasting and softening.
- Add Green Beans & Finish Baking: After 15 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Flip each chicken breast to ensure even browning. Gently push the potatoes to one side of the pan and add the trimmed green beans to the other side, spreading them in a single layer. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter mixture evenly over the green beans (and a little over the potatoes if desired). Return the baking sheet to the oven and change the setting to broil (or grill) on medium-high heat for a further 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown, cooked through (internal temperature of 74°C/165°F), and the potatoes are fork-tender and slightly caramelized. The green beans should be crisp-tender.
Once cooked, remove from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness, if desired. Serve your Crispy Lemon Parmesan Baked Chicken Milanese immediately and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
Expert Tips for the Crispiest Baked Milanese
Achieving that perfect, restaurant-quality crisp on your Baked Chicken Milanese without frying is entirely possible with a few insider tricks. Here’s how to elevate your dish:
- Pound Chicken Evenly: This is a crucial first step. Pounding your chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness ensures that they cook uniformly and quickly. Uneven thickness can lead to dry spots or undercooked areas, and it impacts how the breading adheres and crisps. Use a meat mallet or a heavy rolling pin between two sheets of plastic wrap.
- Embrace Panko Breadcrumbs: While regular breadcrumbs work, Panko breadcrumbs are a game-changer for crispiness. Their larger, flakier texture absorbs less oil and creates a much crunchier crust. If you can only find regular breadcrumbs, consider toasting them lightly in a dry pan before coating for an enhanced texture.
- The Power of Oil Spray: Lightly spraying the breaded chicken with cooking oil (like olive oil or avocado oil spray) before baking is vital. This fine mist of oil helps the breading to brown and become incredibly crispy, mimicking the effect of shallow frying without all the oil. Don’t skip this step!
- Don’t Overcrowd Your Pan: Air circulation is the enemy of sogginess and the friend of crispness. Ensure there is ample space between each chicken cutlet and the vegetables on your baking sheet. If your pan is too small, use two separate sheets or bake in batches. Overcrowding traps steam, preventing that desirable golden crust from forming.
- Finish with a Broil: The final broil (or grill setting) is your secret weapon for ultimate crispiness and a beautiful golden-brown finish. Keep a close eye on it, as broiler temperatures can vary, and things can go from perfectly crisp to burnt very quickly. Usually, just a few minutes are enough.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While optional, even a short 30-minute marinade in the lemon-egg mixture allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken more deeply, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful cutlet.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: As mentioned, freshly grated Parmesan melts better and offers a superior, more robust flavor compared to pre-grated varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
Delicious Variations & Substitutions
This Crispy Lemon Parmesan Baked Chicken Milanese recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous adjustments to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
- Protein Alternatives:
- Pork Milanese: Swap chicken breasts for thin-cut pork tenderloin or pork cutlets, pounded thin. The cooking time will be similar.
- Turkey Cutlets: Thinly sliced turkey breast makes a fantastic, lean alternative with a similar texture to chicken.
- Fish Milanese: For a seafood twist, try this method with firm white fish fillets like cod or halibut. Adjust baking time as fish cooks much faster.
- Vegetable Swaps:
- Asparagus or Broccoli: Instead of green beans, toss asparagus spears or broccoli florets with the garlic butter. Add them during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- Bell Peppers & Onions: Sliced bell peppers and red onion can add sweetness and a different texture to your sheet pan.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes during the last 5-7 minutes of baking for a burst of juicy freshness.
- Cheese Variations:
- Pecorino Romano: For a sharper, saltier flavor, substitute some or all of the Parmesan with Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Asiago or Grana Padano: These cheeses offer similar nutty, savory profiles that work wonderfully.
- Nutritional Yeast: For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can mimic a cheesy flavor in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Herb & Spice Boosts:
- Italian Herbs: Add a teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning to your breadcrumb mixture for a classic herbal aroma.
- Smoked Paprika: A pinch of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky depth and beautiful color to the coating.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat, mix a quarter teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the egg mixture or garlic butter.
- Gluten-Free Option: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using your favorite brand of gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- Spicier Kick: Drizzle a little hot sauce into the egg wash or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the breading for a fiery twist.
What to Serve with Your Perfect Chicken Milanese
While this Crispy Lemon Parmesan Baked Chicken Milanese with potatoes and green beans is a complete meal in itself, adding a complementary side dish or starter can truly elevate the dining experience. Here are some fantastic suggestions:
- Light and Fresh Sides:
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette (lemon-herb or balsamic) provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken and roasted vegetables.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze make for a vibrant and delicious accompaniment.
- Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan: The peppery notes of arugula paired with a lemon dressing and extra Parmesan beautifully echo the flavors in the Milanese.
- Heartier Additions:
- Creamy Polenta or Risotto: For a more substantial Italian-inspired meal, serve the Milanese alongside a bowl of creamy polenta or a lemon-herb risotto. Their creamy textures are a wonderful match for the crispy chicken.
- Garlic Bread or Focaccia: Perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce, a slice of crusty garlic bread or soft focaccia is always a welcome addition.
- Pasta with a Light Sauce: A simple pasta dish, like angel hair with olive oil, garlic, and a touch of lemon, or a light marinara, can be a great pairing.
- Elegant Starters (as suggested in the original):
- A bowl of Decadent Lobster Bisque offers a rich, velvety seafood indulgence that beautifully complements the lemon and Parmesan notes of the chicken. Its luxurious texture provides a delightful contrast to the crispy Milanese.
- If you’re seeking something more comforting and hearty, a bowl of Creamy Chicken Corn Chowder is a superb choice. It’s satisfying, packed with flavor, and ideal for a cozy meal, especially when served with a piece of crusty bread.
- For a classic appetizer that never disappoints, French Onion Soup, with its savory caramelized onions, rich broth, and melted cheesy crouton topping, offers a delightful balance to the crisp breaded chicken.
- Sauce Enhancements:
- While the garlic butter is fantastic, a simple pan sauce made with white wine, lemon juice, and capers can add another layer of sophistication.
- A quick homemade marinara or a pesto drizzle can also provide a fresh burst of flavor.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this Baked Chicken Milanese promises a memorable and delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For maximum crunch and a golden-brown crust on your Baked Chicken Milanese, several key steps are essential. First, ensure your chicken cutlets are pounded to an even thickness. Then, generously coat them in a mixture of breadcrumbs (Panko is recommended for superior crispness) and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Most importantly, lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking oil before baking, and bake at a high temperature (200°C | 400°F). Finishing with a quick broil for the last few minutes will seal in that extra crispy texture, giving you results comparable to fried cutlets without the added oil.
A simple yet flavorful garlic butter sauce, as used in this recipe, is a classic and highly recommended accompaniment for Chicken Milanese. Its richness perfectly complements the crispy chicken and roasted vegetables. Other excellent options include a bright and zesty lemon butter sauce, a light and fresh tomato-based marinara or arrabbiata, or even a pesto drizzle. Many chefs consider a quick pan sauce, made with white wine, lemon juice, and a touch of butter or chicken broth, to be the ideal choice for enhancing the flavors of chicken Milanese.
Absolutely! Air frying is a fantastic alternative to baking for achieving extra crispy Chicken Milanese. To air fry, simply place your breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it (cook in batches if necessary). Lightly spray the chicken with oil, then cook at 200°C | 400°F for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown, cooked through, and wonderfully crispy. The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your chicken.
Yes, you can prepare parts of this dish ahead of time to make weeknight cooking even faster. You can pound the chicken and prepare the egg mixture and breadcrumb coating. You can even coat the chicken in the breadcrumbs and place them on a wire rack on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate for up to 2-4 hours before baking. For the vegetables, you can cut the potatoes and trim the green beans in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just assemble everything on the sheet pan and bake when ready to serve.
Leftover Baked Chicken Milanese and vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat and maintain crispiness, it’s best to avoid the microwave, which can make the breading soggy. Instead, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven or air fryer at 180°C | 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. The potatoes and green beans can be reheated alongside.
Baked Chicken Milanese ON VIDEO!
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Crispy Parmesan Baked Chicken with Veggies (Milanese)
A CAFEDELITES© ORIGINAL RECIPE
Ingredients
For The Chicken:
- 1 egg large
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or juice of 1/2 a lemon
- 2 teaspoons garlic minced
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt to season
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper to season
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese fresh grated
- 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs
For The Veggies:
- 8-10 baby potatoes quartered
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 2 teaspoons garlic minced
- 1 pinch salt to taste
- 1 pound green beans cut into thirds
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 200°C | 400°F. Lightly grease a baking tray / sheet with cooking oil spray, or a light coating of oil. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, lemon juice, 2 teaspoons garlic, parsley, salt and pepper.
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Dip chicken into egg mixture, cover and allow to marinade in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour (if time allows).*
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In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the parmesan cheese.
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Dredge the egg coated chicken in the breadcrumb/parmesan mixture, lightly pressing to evenly coat.
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Place chicken onto the baking sheet / tray and lightly spray with cooking oil spray. Arrange the potatoes around the chicken in a single layer. Mix together the butter, 2 teaspoons garlic and salt to taste, and pour half of the butter mixture over the potatoes. Toss to evenly coat.
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Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes.
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Remove baking tray from the oven and carefully flip each chicken breast. Move the potatoes to one side and place the green beans around the chicken on the other side of the baking sheet. Pour over the remaining garlic butter and return to the oven to broil (or grill) on medium-high heat for a further 10 minutes, or until chicken is golden and crisp, and potatoes are cooked through.
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Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley (optional), and serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.