Recipe Title: Palermo-Style Chicken Cutlets (Cotoletta alla Palermitana)
Category: Main Courses
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 400g |
| Breadcrumbs | 130g |
| Pecorino cheese | 30g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 50g |
| Fresh parsley | 2g |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Lemons | to taste |
| Fresh mint (optional) | to taste |
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken breast. If using whole chicken breast, remove any excess fat and connective tissue to ensure a lean cut of meat. Once the chicken is cleaned, slice it into thinner pieces for a quicker cooking time and more even browning.
Place the chicken slices on a plate, and lightly brush each side with olive oil, ensuring an even coating. Set the chicken aside as you proceed to prepare the breadcrumb coating.
Step 2: Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating
Next, take a bunch of fresh parsley and rinse it thoroughly. Dry the leaves and then finely chop them using either a mezzaluna (herb knife) or a sharp chef’s knife. The finer the parsley, the better it will blend into the breadcrumbs, creating a fragrant crust.
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the finely chopped parsley. If desired, you can add a few mint leaves, finely chopped, for a refreshing twist. Next, grate the pecorino cheese and add it to the breadcrumb mixture. The pecorino adds a lovely sharp flavor that balances the freshness of the herbs.
Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and black pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences. The breadcrumb mixture is now ready for coating the chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take each piece of chicken and gently press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is coated on both sides. Press firmly so the crumbs stick well to the surface of the chicken. The breadcrumbs should form a thick, fragrant crust around each piece of chicken, which will crisp up during cooking.
Step 4: Cooking the Chicken
You have two options for cooking the cotoletta alla palermitana:
-
Grill: Heat a grill or griddle pan over medium heat and add a bit more olive oil. Once the grill is hot, place the breaded chicken pieces on it and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even brown crust on both sides. The chicken should be perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and is no longer pink in the center.
-
Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) for static heat or 170°C (340°F) for fan-assisted heat. Arrange the breaded chicken on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, drizzle with a little olive oil, and bake for about 15 minutes. If using a fan oven, you can reduce the temperature to 170°C and cook for around 10 minutes. The goal is to achieve a golden, crispy crust on the outside while keeping the chicken tender on the inside.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once your cotoletta alla palermitana is perfectly cooked, it’s time to add a burst of freshness. Grate the zest of a lemon (preferably organic or untreated) over the top of the chicken, and then squeeze some lemon juice to add a tangy finish. This brightens up the rich, savory flavors of the dish.
For an extra touch, serve your Palermo-style chicken cutlets with a side of mixed greens, crispy roasted vegetables, or golden, oven-baked potatoes. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or any fresh vegetable side that will complement the crunchy, flavorful chicken.
Pro Tip:
If you enjoy a lighter version, you can substitute the chicken with thin cuts of beef, such as round steak or tender cuts like sirloin or rib-eye. Simply follow the same preparation and cooking instructions. The slight difference in texture will add another layer of flavor to this already delicious dish.
Now, your Palermo-Style Chicken Cutlets are ready to serve, bursting with the vibrant flavors of Sicily. Enjoy every crispy bite and savor the crispy, herby crust paired with the succulent chicken inside!
