Milanese with Lemon and Thyme Linguine

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Introduction

When you’re in the mood for a light, yet satisfying, dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine, look no further than Milanese with Lemon and Thyme Linguine. This dish combines the golden, crispy allure of breaded chicken Milanese with the fresh, zesty brightness of lemon and fragrant thyme-infused linguine. The result is a refreshing, comforting meal that is easy to prepare and packed with delicious flavors.

Milanese, with its crunchy exterior and juicy interior, is a staple of Italian comfort food. Traditionally served with a side of vegetables or pasta, it elevates any meal. In this recipe, we’ve taken it a step further by pairing it with linguine that’s tossed in a light, herbaceous sauce made from fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and thyme. It’s a perfect balance of crispy, tender, and citrusy goodness.

This dish offers a tantalizing combination of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, Milanese with Lemon and Thyme Linguine is a perfect choice for any occasion.

In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of making this dish, explain why it’s a great choice for any meal, and offer helpful tips and variations to customize it to your tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Tender Chicken: The Milanese chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, offering a perfect contrast to the tender linguine.
• Bright and Herbaceous: The lemon and thyme sauce gives the linguine a fresh, aromatic quality that cuts through the richness of the breaded chicken.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with fresh, easy-to-find ingredients, this dish comes together effortlessly without compromising on flavor.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning, choose a different pasta, or even swap out the chicken for another protein like turkey or veal to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 45 minutes (10 minutes for prep, 35 minutes for cooking)
• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people, but it can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 600, Protein: 42g, Carbs: 60g, Fat: 18g.

Ingredients

Chicken Milanese:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These will be breaded and fried for the signature crispy exterior.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the chicken, helping the breadcrumbs adhere.
• 2 large eggs: Beaten, for the egg wash that will coat the chicken.
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or choose regular breadcrumbs if preferred.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mild garlic flavor to the breading.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: For a slight savory undertone.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A traditional Italian herb that complements the chicken.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the breading and chicken.
• 1 cup vegetable oil: For frying the chicken until golden and crispy.
• Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish.

Lemon and Thyme Linguine:

• 12 oz linguine pasta: The long, thin strands of linguine pair perfectly with the lemon and thyme sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the garlic and creating the base of the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced, for a fragrant foundation to the sauce.
• Zest of 1 lemon: Adds a burst of citrusy brightness to the dish.
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: The main source of citrus flavor in the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Chopped, to add a subtle earthy, lemony flavor.
• ½ cup vegetable broth: To create a light, flavorful sauce that coats the pasta.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning the pasta and sauce.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Optional, for extra creaminess and depth of flavor.

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh thyme sprigs: For a burst of color and additional fragrance.
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese: For sprinkling over the top before serving.

Step-by-Step

Preparation

FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE CHICKEN MILANESE

1. Pound the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
2. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Make sure the chicken is well-coated with the seasonings.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. Place flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs in the third. Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Fry the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Drain the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Set aside while you prepare the linguine.

SECOND STEP: COOK THE LINGUINE

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
2. Prepare the Lemon and Thyme Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
3. Add the Lemon and Broth: Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vegetable broth. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the broth to reduce slightly.
4. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked linguine to the pan with the lemon and thyme sauce. Toss the pasta to coat evenly in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Season the Pasta: Stir in the chopped fresh thyme leaves and season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for extra creaminess.

THIRD STEP: ASSEMBLE AND SERVE

1. Plate the Pasta: Divide the lemon and thyme linguine evenly among four plates.
2. Top with Chicken: Place one piece of the crispy chicken Milanese on top of the linguine on each plate.
3. Garnish: Garnish the dish with fresh thyme sprigs and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
4. Serve: Serve immediately, enjoying the contrast between the crispy chicken and the citrusy, herbed linguine.

How to Serve Milanese with Lemon and Thyme Linguine

This dish is a beautiful combination of crispy chicken and refreshing pasta, making it ideal for a variety of occasions. Here are some great serving ideas:

1. As a Weeknight Dinner

Milanese with Lemon and Thyme Linguine is quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner when you want something that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

2. As a Special Occasion Meal

If you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a special occasion, this dish will surely impress your guests. The crispy chicken and fresh pasta are elegant yet comforting, making it an ideal centerpiece for your meal.

3. Pair with a Light Salad

Serve the dish alongside a light salad, such as a simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the chicken and pasta.

4. With a Glass of Sparkling Water or White Wine

Pair this dish with a refreshing beverage like sparkling water or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio (if not avoiding wine). The acidity of these drinks pairs beautifully with the lemony pasta.

Recipe Variations

While Milanese with Lemon and Thyme Linguine is delicious as written, you can always experiment and make the dish your own. Here are a few ideas:

1. Use Different Proteins

Instead of chicken, try using turkey breasts, veal, or even a plant-based option like a breaded veggie cutlet for a vegetarian version.

2. Add Vegetables

Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes into the linguine for extra color and nutrition.

3. Make it Spicy

For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the lemon and thyme sauce or sprinkle some on top before serving.

4. Gluten-Free Version

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and linguine separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken can be reheated in a skillet for a few minutes to regain its crispiness, while the linguine can be gently reheated in a pan with a splash of vegetable broth or water.

Leftovers will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Special Equipment

While you don’t need any special equipment for this recipe, a meat mallet will help ensure the chicken cooks evenly, and a deep skillet or frying pan is essential for cooking the chicken Milanese.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, absolutely! While linguine is the traditional choice for this dish, you can substitute it with other types of pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine, or even penne. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions and adjust the amount of sauce as needed.

2. Can I make the chicken Milanese in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken Milanese in advance. You can bread the chicken, refrigerate it, and then fry it just before serving. However, for the crispiest texture, it’s best to fry the chicken right before you plan to serve the dish.

3. Can I use a different herb instead of thyme?

While fresh thyme adds a lovely flavor to the linguine, you can certainly experiment with other herbs. Fresh rosemary or basil would be great alternatives. If you prefer a more intense herbal flavor, you could also try using a combination of oregano and parsley.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

For the best results, this dish is best served immediately after it’s prepared. However, if you need to make it ahead of time, you can cook the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet before serving, and toss the linguine with the lemon and thyme sauce just before plating.

5. How can I make the dish spicier?

If you like a little spice, you can add red pepper flakes to the lemon and thyme sauce or sprinkle them on top of the finished dish for an added kick. You can also try adding some sliced fresh chili peppers to the sauce while it simmers for a more intense heat.

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Conclusion

Milanese with Lemon and Thyme Linguine is a perfect combination of crispy, tender, and fresh flavors that will delight your taste buds. It’s simple to prepare yet packed with vibrant tastes that transport you straight to the heart of Italy. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a celebratory feast, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media—I’d love to see how you make it your own! Enjoy!