Chicken Salmoriglio

Chicken Salmoriglio is a delightful dish that combines crispy breaded chicken cutlets with a vibrant salmoriglio sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and zesty lemon. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a casual get-together. The unique flavor profile of Chicken Salmoriglio elevates the simple chicken cutlet to a gourmet experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip up Chicken Salmoriglio in under two hours, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs in the salmoriglio sauce provides a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with sides like pasta or salad for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish at your next gathering.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is sure to impress your guests with its delicious taste and eye-catching presentation.
• Healthier Option: Using fresh ingredients and lean chicken makes this dish a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Chicken Salmoriglio, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Quart zipper seal bag
• Pie dishes (3)
• Small food processor
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or sauté pan: Ideal for frying the chicken cutlets evenly while providing enough space for multiple pieces.
• Quart zipper seal bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken without mess and ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Small food processor: Helps to achieve the right panko breadcrumb texture for optimal crispiness.

Ingredients

Chicken Salmoriglio is breaded and pan-fried chicken cutlets topped with a simple salmoriglio sauce made with lemon, garlic, and herbs. This simple meal is fantastic!

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 10-12 ounces each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 whole eggs and 1 tablespoon water
• 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons butter, for frying
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, for frying

For the Marinade & Sauce

• Zest from two lemons
• 1 tablespoon garlic minced very fine
• 1 teaspoon dry oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Juice from two lemons
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Salmoriglio

Step 1: Butterfly the Chicken

Butterfly each breast for even thickness. Cut each butterflied breast in half to yield four pieces. Place the chicken into a quart zipper seal bag.

Step 2: Prepare Marinade

Whisk all marinade ingredients together in a small bowl. Pour half of it into the bag with the chicken. Marinate at room temperature for one hour.

Step 3: Make Sauce

Add lemon juice and parsley to the remaining marinade mixture. Set this aside as your salmoriglio sauce.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

After marinating, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a sheet tray with parchment paper.

Step 5: Set Up Breading Station

Prepare your breading station by placing flour mixed with salt and pepper in one pie dish. In another dish, add beaten eggs mixed with water.

Step 6: Process Panko Breadcrumbs

Place panko in a small food processor and pulse until slightly smaller in size. Pour it into the third pie plate and mix with Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bread the Chicken

Discard the marinade from the bag. Take one chicken cutlet at a time; cover it in flour first, then dip in egg mixture followed by breadcrumbs. Shake off excess at each step. Repeat for all cutlets.

Step 8: Fry Chicken Cutlets

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat three tablespoons of butter along with three tablespoons of olive oil over medium to medium-high heat.

Step 9: Cook Cutlets

Once the butter starts to pop and foam lightly browns, add two cutlets to the pan. Cook for a few minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked yet. Transfer them to the lined sheet tray.

Step 10: Finish Cooking

Repeat this process for the remaining two cutlets. Brush melted butter liberally over all fried cutlets on the tray.

Step 11: Bake

Place the sheet tray in your preheated oven for five to ten minutes until reaching an internal temperature of 155 degrees F when checked with a thermometer.

Step 12: Serve

Serve each cutlet topped with salmoriglio sauce on either side along with lemon wedges for added zest!

How to Serve Chicken Salmoriglio

Serving Chicken Salmoriglio is a delightful experience that allows you to showcase the flavors of this dish. The bright, zesty salmoriglio sauce pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its taste.

With Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges add a burst of citrus flavor. Squeeze them over the chicken just before serving for an extra zest.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken on a bed of mixed greens. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the fried cutlets.

With Pasta

• Pair your Chicken Salmoriglio with a side of pasta dressed in olive oil and garlic. The simple flavors complement the dish perfectly.

On a Sandwich

• Create a delicious sandwich by placing the chicken in a crusty roll with fresh vegetables and salmoriglio sauce for a tasty lunch option.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Accompany your chicken with grilled seasonal vegetables. The smoky flavor contrasts well with the bright sauce.

With Rice Pilaf

• Serve alongside a light rice pilaf, which absorbs the flavors of the salmoriglio sauce beautifully, making each bite delightful.

How to Perfect Chicken Salmoriglio

Perfecting Chicken Salmoriglio involves attention to detail during preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and quality chicken. Fresh ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor profile.
• Marinate Properly: Ensure you marinate your chicken for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
• Fry at the Right Temperature: Maintain medium-high heat when frying. This ensures that your chicken gets golden brown without being greasy.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy cutlets instead of crispy ones.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches 155 degrees F for safety and optimal doneness.
• Let It Rest: Allow your cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Salmoriglio

Chicken Salmoriglio pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its bright, zesty flavor. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes laced with garlic provide comfort and balance to the meal.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color, enhancing visual appeal.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side that complements the savory notes of the chicken.
4. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with veggies offers a fluffy texture that pairs well with the dish’s richness.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach adds nutrients and pairs nicely with Chicken Salmoriglio’s flavors without overpowering them.
6. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf is nutritious and provides an excellent base for soaking up any leftover sauce from your chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Salmoriglio, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always allow time for the chicken to soak up the marinade for at least one hour.
• Not Using Panko Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs won’t achieve the same crispiness. Be sure to use panko for that perfect crunch in your Chicken Salmoriglio.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many cutlets in the skillet at once will lower the temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking the internal temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 155 degrees F.
• Using Dull Knives: A dull knife can make it difficult to butterfly the chicken evenly, resulting in uneven cooking. Always use a sharp knife for this step.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Salmoriglio in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Salmoriglio

• You can freeze cooked Chicken Salmoriglio if needed.
• Wrap each cutlet tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Salmoriglio

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Place cutlets on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place cutlets on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm, being careful not to dry them out.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, add a little oil over medium heat. Carefully warm each cutlet for about 3-4 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Chicken Salmoriglio that can help enhance your cooking experience:

What is Chicken Salmoriglio?

Chicken Salmoriglio is a delicious Italian dish featuring breaded and pan-fried chicken cutlets topped with a fresh sauce made from lemon, garlic, and herbs.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with pork or even eggplant for a vegetarian option while still enjoying the vibrant salmoriglio sauce.

How do I make my salmoriglio sauce more flavorful?

To enhance your salmoriglio sauce, consider adding more herbs or spices, such as fresh basil or red pepper flakes, depending on your taste preference.

Can I prepare Chicken Salmoriglio ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken beforehand and bread it right before frying, making it easier to serve later on.

What sides pair well with Chicken Salmoriglio?

Chicken Salmoriglio goes great with sides like roasted vegetables, pasta salad, or garlic bread that complement its bright flavors.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Salmoriglio is not just an easy recipe; it’s also versatile and bursting with flavor! The combination of crispy chicken and zesty salmoriglio sauce makes it perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting the seasoning. We hope you give this delightful dish a try!