By Kira Wills, Guest Blogger
Let’s face facts: even the most dedicated foodies don’t want to spend precious summer days sweating and slaving over a hot stove when they could be swimming in pools, soaking up the sun or going to farmer’s markets, fairs and festivals. Yes, as soon as the sun shines and the temperature rises, even I find it exceedingly hard to stay in the kitchen.
If I’m anything, it’s flexible, so I’ve learned to adapt for the change in season, which means making quick dishes with a big help from Mother Nature’s bounty of fresh produce, and spending less than 45 minutes preparing a meal. Lemony Chicken Milanese, breaded chicken breasts served over a quick arugula salad, is a great recipe for a quick meal to enjoy on the patio with a glass of sweet tea or a cocktail. This dish is bright from the lemon juice, peppery from the arugula and has that satisfying, seasoned crunch of breaded, sautéed chicken. It’s a wow dish for any time of year, and absolutely perfect summer.
RECIPE:
Lemony Chicken Milanese with Arugula Salad
Adapted from recipe at epicurous.com
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
2 large eggs
1 1/4 cups panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
Seasoning Salt
Pepper
Garlic Powder
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided
2 cups (packed) baby arugula leaves (about 2 ounces)
Directions
Using meat mallet or rolling pin to tenderize and flatten chicken. Whisk eggs in medium bowl to blend.
Season chicken on both sides with seasoning salt, garlic powder and black pepper. Dip chicken in beaten eggs; turn to coat. Dredge in breadcrumbs, coating completely.
Heat 3 tablespoons oil in large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to plates; sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Toss arugula with remaining 1 tablespoon oil and remaining lemon juice, season lightly with salt and pepper.
Place a piece of hot chicken onto plate and add a mound of arugula salad on top of chicken. Garnish with cherry tomatoes and a bit of Parmesan cheese if you wish. Enjoy!
