Valdostana Chicken

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Valdostana Chicken offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The breaded chicken is crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender inside. The rich sauce adds depth and complexity, and the melted mozzarella cheese on top makes it all the more indulgent. Paired with your favorite side dishes, this dish is a true showstopper.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• 3 – 3 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 9 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 7 tablespoons cold butter, divided
• 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, finely minced
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 1 cup apple juice or white grape juice
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 lemon, cut into 8 wedges (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound pasta (your choice; vermicelli is recommended)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off any excess flour.

2. Pan-Fry the Chicken

In a large frying pan, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the butter, and as soon as it melts, place the chicken cutlets in the pan in a single layer (avoid crowding the pan). Pan-fry the chicken for about 2 minutes per side, or until the chicken is lightly golden.

3. Add Apple Juice and Simmer

Pour in the apple juice (or white grape juice) and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until most of the liquid evaporates.

4. Add Chicken Stock

Add the chicken stock to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Shake the pan occasionally to loosen any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

5. Assemble the Dish

Top each chicken cutlet with cheese.

6. Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Cook for 2 more minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the dish with chopped parsley and serve immediately, drizzled with the delicious sauce from the pan.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Different Cheese: If you can’t find Fontina cheese, you can substitute with mozzarella, provolone, or Gruyère for a different flavor.
• Add Veggies: You can sauté some mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to add to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour for dredging the chicken, or skip the flour entirely for a low-carb version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken stock to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you may need to pound them thin or slice them into thinner pieces to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.

2. Can I use a different type of juice?

While apple juice or white grape juice works best for this recipe, you can also use a mix of vegetable broth or orange juice for a different flavor.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served immediately, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and then reheat it when ready to serve. Add the cheese just before reheating.

4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, the chicken should be golden brown on both sides and juices should run clear when pierced.

5. Can I make this dish without the pasta?

Yes, you can serve Valdostana Chicken on its own, or with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Valdostana Chicken is a quick and delicious Italian dish that brings together tender, crispy chicken with a flavorful sauce and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a perfect recipe for a comforting family dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Serve it over pasta, rice, or your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to impress!

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