There’s something incredibly satisfying about a cozy evening spent in the kitchen, especially when it culminates in a delightful meal. Picture this: you’re unwinding after a long day, and the comforting aroma of garlic and tomatoes begins to fill the air. This is exactly how I stumbled upon my latest favorite—Air Fryer Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti! A delicious twist on a classic dish, this recipe offers crispy, golden chicken that cooks to perfection in a fraction of the time, thanks to the air fryer.
As someone who cherishes honest, homemade meals, I often find myself looking for options that taste indulgent yet won’t keep me chained to the stove. This dish checks all the boxes: it’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to impress. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a small gathering, this chicken and spaghetti combo is bound to become a go-to in your kitchen. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that brings a taste of Italy to your table with minimal fuss!
Why is Air fryer chicken Milanese with spaghetti recipe a must-try?
Deliciously Crispy: The air fryer brings a golden crunch to the Chicken Milanese without the excess oil.
Flavor-Packed Sauce: The rich combination of garlic, tomatoes, and a hint of butter makes for a mouthwatering spaghetti sauce that’s hard to resist.
Quick & Easy: With just 20 minutes of cook time, dinner is served in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Versatile Meal: Pair this dish with any pasta you love, or swap the chicken for veggies for a delightful meatless option.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a recipe that appeals to everyone, making it ideal for family nights or gatherings with friends.
Try this easy recipe and you won’t look back; it’s a sure way to break free from fast food.
Air Fryer Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken breast fillets – use two for a filling, protein-packed meal.
• Plain flour – helps create that crunchy coating, essential for Chicken Milanese.
• Free-range egg – binds the breadcrumbs better for an even crispiness.
• Everything seasoning – enhances the flavor profile with a delightful blend of spices.
• Panko breadcrumbs – provides extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
For the Sauce
• Garlic – infuses the sauce with a lovely fragrance and depth of flavor.
• Chopped Italian tomatoes – forms the base of this luscious spaghetti sauce, bringing freshness.
• Sundried tomato paste – adds richness and concentrated sweetness to elevate the sauce.
• Salted butter – rounds out the sauce with a creamy texture and savory flavor.
For Serving
• Spaghetti – the perfect pasta to soak up that flavorful sauce.
• Parmigiano Reggiano – sprinkle on top for a rich, nutty finish.
• Fresh basil – brightens the dish with its aromatic touch; a must for presentation!
This Air fryer chicken Milanese with spaghetti recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti
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Sizzle: Heat a splash of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sizzle for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in chopped tomatoes, sundried tomato paste, and butter. Season with salt and pepper, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer while you prepare the chicken.
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Flatten: Place the chicken breasts on a clean chopping board and cover with a double layer of clingfilm. Use a rolling pin to gently bash the chicken until it’s about 5mm thick—this ensures it cooks evenly.
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Prepare Breading: In three shallow bowls, set up your breading station. First, tip flour into one bowl. In a second, add the beaten egg. Finally, combine everything seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, and the grated Parmigiano Reggiano in the third bowl, seasoning with salt and pepper.
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Coat: Dip each flattened chicken breast first into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated, then into the egg, and lastly into the breadcrumb mixture. Place them in the air fryer basket and lightly drizzle with oil.
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Cook: Air fry the chicken at 180°C for 20 minutes, turning halfway through until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through. The crispy texture will be simply irresistible!
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Boil Spaghetti: While the chicken cooks, boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook spaghetti for 9-11 minutes until al dente. Use tongs to toss the spaghetti into the prepared tomato sauce, coating it thoroughly.
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Serve: Slice the crispy chicken, if desired, and serve it over the spaghetti. Top with any remaining Parmesan and sprinkle fresh basil to finish. Enjoy your delightful, homemade dinner!
Optional: Garnish with extra basil or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti?
As you indulge in this deliciously crispy chicken and spaghetti dish, consider these delightful pairings to create a memorable meal experience.
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Garden Salad: A light and refreshing garden salad adds a crisp texture and balances the hearty flavors of the chicken and sauce. Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a perfect complement.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread offers a heavenly dip into the flavorful spaghetti sauce. The combination of crunch and softness creates an inviting contrast that no one can resist.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus provide natural sweetness and a lovely char. Their vibrant colors also brighten the plate, making your dinner visually appealing.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the Italian flavors of your meal. Its refreshing acidity perfectly cuts through the richness of the dish.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, lemon sorbet offers a light, zesty finish that cleanses the palate. It’s a delightful way to refresh after the comforting main course.
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Parmesan Risotto: Creamy Parmesan risotto serves as a luxurious side dish that elevates your meal to a gourmet level. Its richness pairs beautifully with the chicken and tomato sauce, creating a harmonious bite.
Let these pairings take your dinner to the next level, ensuring every bite is filled with joy and warmth!
Air Fryer Chicken Milanese Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on this dish—the options are as delightful as the recipe itself!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the plain flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities. This ensures everyone can enjoy a crispy chicken meal!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a flavorful heat that perfectly complements the tomato sauce. It’s a simple way to elevate the dish with exciting spice!
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Herbed Chicken: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or oregano into the breadcrumb coating for an aromatic twist. Fresh flavors meld beautifully with the chicken, enhancing each bite!
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Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate shredded mozzarella into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra cheesy crunch. This variation creates a gooey, cheesy delight that will thrill any cheese lover!
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Baked Alternative: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 200°C and bake the breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes. You’ll still achieve that satisfying crispiness!
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Vegetable Twist: Replace the chicken with sliced eggplant or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian option. Bread and cook just like the chicken for a satisfying, veggie-packed meal!
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Pasta Variations: Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti to change up the dish’s nutrition profile without sacrificing flavor. Different pastas can bring new textures and tastes each time!
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Creamy Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream to the tomato sauce right before tossing it with the spaghetti for a rich, creamy variation. This decadent twist makes the dish feel even more indulgent.
Get creative, mix and match, and let your taste buds lead the way!
Make Ahead Options
These Air fryer chicken Milanese with spaghetti recipe components are perfect for meal prep, helping you save valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the tomato sauce and bread the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the sauce as directed, let it cool, and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the chicken, follow the breading instructions, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, heat the sauce gently on the stove and air fry the chicken directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly crispy results. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy a homemade meal that’s just as delicious without the last-minute fuss!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti
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Chicken Thickness: Ensure the chicken is flattened evenly to 5mm; uneven thickness can lead to some parts being undercooked.
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Breading Order: Follow the flour, egg, then breadcrumb sequence strictly for an even, crispy coating. This helps the breadcrumbs adhere properly.
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Air Fryer Preheating: Preheat your air fryer before cooking for optimal crispiness. A hot air fryer ensures that the coating gets that perfect texture.
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Sauce Consistency: If your tomato sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to achieve the desired consistency while tossing with the spaghetti.
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Serving Timing: Serve the dish immediately for the best experience; crispy chicken combined with warm spaghetti is unbeatable!
This air fryer chicken Milanese with spaghetti recipe is about simplicity and flavor—don’t hesitate to make it your own!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Milanese with spaghetti in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For freezing, separate the chicken and spaghetti into two containers. They can last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for about 10 minutes for the chicken, and gently heat the spaghetti in a pan with a splash of water until warmed through.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving this dish out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Enjoy your homemade air fryer chicken Milanese with spaghetti recipe while it’s fresh and delicious!
Air Fryer Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe tomatoes for the sauce?
Absolutely! When selecting tomatoes, look for ones that are deep red and feel slightly firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots all over or a mushy texture, as they can affect the flavor of your sauce. Consider using vine-ripened tomatoes for even better taste and freshness!
What is the best way to store leftover Chicken Milanese and spaghetti?
I recommend storing leftover Chicken Milanese with spaghetti in an airtight container, ideally once it has cooled completely. It will last up to 3 days in the fridge. Ensure the container is sealed properly to keep the dish fresh for your next meal!
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your Chicken Milanese and spaghetti! I often separate the chicken from the spaghetti into two airtight containers to prevent sogginess. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat the chicken in the air fryer for about 10 minutes at 180°C for that crunchy texture.
What if my chicken is not cooking evenly?
If you notice that some parts of your chicken are browning faster than others, it may be due to uneven flattening. Make sure to pound the chicken evenly to about 5mm thickness to ensure even cooking. Also, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking helps it brown evenly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for others, be sure to check for allergies, especially to gluten (from the flour and breadcrumbs) and eggs. For gluten-free options, you can substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Additionally, if you have pets, avoid leaving any leftovers accessible, as rich foods may not be suitable for them.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
You can check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be white with no pink juices. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Timing can vary based on thickness, but the air fryer should cook it well if you’ve flattened it correctly!
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Milanese with Spaghetti Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sizzle for 1 minute until fragrant, then stir in chopped tomatoes, sundried tomato paste, and butter. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer while you prepare the chicken.
- Place the chicken breasts on a clean chopping board and cover with clingfilm. Use a rolling pin to bash the chicken until 5mm thick for even cooking.
- In three shallow bowls, set up the breading station: flour in the first, beaten egg in the second, and a mixture of everything seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmigiano in the third.
- Dip each chicken breast into the flour, then the egg, and lastly the breadcrumbs. Place them in the air fryer basket and lightly drizzle with oil.
- Air fry the chicken at 180°C for 20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- While the chicken cooks, boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook spaghetti for 9-11 minutes until al dente. Toss spaghetti into the prepared tomato sauce.
- Slice the crispy chicken and serve over the spaghetti. Top with remaining Parmesan and fresh basil.