Mustard chicken milanese on a Saturday afternoon

Those who know me will tell you that I am always the girl with a plan. Growing up in a fairly conservative family, I’ve learnt to think ahead—almost to a fault. Stepping into the year, I had a simple but lofty goal: plan less, do more. Starting with the kitchen.

I’ll be honest. It’s not often that I make a full meal for more than two people on my own. I generally get help in the form of my boyfriend or mother but not this time. As a one-woman show, planning is key (the irony). Since I needed a tried and tested recipe and because I am an unabashedly big fan of Deb Perelman, I strategically picked this one out. The mustard chicken milanese is something I’ve attempted twice before, both times in a team and both times a winner.

I know that fried chicken cutlets aren’t the sexiest sounding dish but trust me on this one. If you’re still hesitating because you’ve had too many dried-out pieces of chicken in your life, I promise that this time will be different. Pounding the meat thin ensures that you get perfect, tender chicken and the egg white-mustard mixture keeps it super moist. This is also a great make-ahead dish when you’re cooking for a large group—just coat the meat then let it rest overnight in the fridge.

Frying it off was simple enough and the results are glorious. I served the chicken on a bed of rocket and cherry tomatoes tossed in my fail-proof honey mustard dressing. This is a great, non-generic dish that you can have over and over. My sister had a friend over and we all enjoyed this in the backyard with a pitcher of iced tea. It was all very idyllic. The best thing about cooking really is the sharing afterwards.

I suppose you can say that my first solo cooking experience for a group (man that is a mouthful) this year was a resounding success. I am excited to do more and also up the ante. Maybe I’ll even attempt to make dessert next time. Whatever I decide, I’ll be sure to let you know how it goes.

Charissa

About Charissa Guan

Charissa is a constantly caffeinated publicist who plans her vacation itinerary around the availability of restaurant reservations. She likes honest, uncomplicated food, Sadie her Shetland, and alliteration. A regular documentation of her unabashed foodie life: @charissa__g.

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