When it comes to Italian cuisine, there are many dishes that come to mind, such as pasta, pizza, and risotto. However, one dish that is often associated with Italian-American cuisine is chicken cutlets, also known as chicken parmesan or breaded cutlets. But do Italians actually eat chicken cutlets? In this article, we will delve into the history of chicken cutlets, their popularity in Italy and the United States, and the differences between Italian and Italian-American cuisine.
A Brief History of Chicken Cutlets
Chicken cutlets, also known as cotoletta in Italian, have a long history that dates back to the 19th century. The dish originated in Austria and Germany, where it was known as Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet. The dish was later adopted by Italian chefs, who replaced the veal with chicken and added their own twist to the recipe.
In Italy, chicken cutlets were initially considered a luxury dish, as chicken was a expensive ingredient at the time. However, with the rise of Italian immigration to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, chicken cutlets became a staple of Italian-American cuisine.
Chicken Cutlets in Italy
While chicken cutlets are a popular dish in Italy, they are not as widely consumed as they are in the United States. In Italy, chicken cutlets are typically served as a second course, known as “secondo,” and are often accompanied by a side of vegetables or salad.
In Italy, chicken cutlets are usually made with thinly sliced chicken breasts that are breaded and fried. The breading is typically made with breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and eggs, and the chicken is often served with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley.
One of the most popular variations of chicken cutlets in Italy is the “cotoletta alla milanese,” which is a breaded and fried chicken cutlet that is served with a side of arugula and tomato.
Regional Variations
While chicken cutlets are enjoyed throughout Italy, there are some regional variations that are worth noting. In the north of Italy, chicken cutlets are often served with a creamy mushroom sauce, while in the south, they are often served with a spicy tomato sauce.
In Sicily, chicken cutlets are often served with a side of eggplant and zucchini, which are breaded and fried along with the chicken.
Chicken Cutlets in the United States
Chicken cutlets are a staple of Italian-American cuisine in the United States. They are often served in Italian restaurants and are a popular dish in many Italian-American households.
In the United States, chicken cutlets are often made with thicker chicken breasts that are breaded and fried. The breading is typically made with breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and eggs, and the chicken is often served with a side of pasta or a green salad.
One of the most popular variations of chicken cutlets in the United States is the “chicken parmesan,” which is a breaded and fried chicken cutlet that is topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
The Rise of Chicken Parmesan
Chicken parmesan, also known as chicken parm, is a popular variation of chicken cutlets that originated in the United States. The dish typically consists of a breaded and fried chicken cutlet that is topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Chicken parmesan became popular in the United States in the mid-20th century, when Italian-American cuisine was on the rise. The dish was often served in Italian restaurants and was a staple of many Italian-American households.
The Difference Between Italian and Italian-American Cuisine
While Italian and Italian-American cuisine share many similarities, there are some key differences between the two. Italian cuisine tends to be lighter and more focused on fresh ingredients, while Italian-American cuisine is often heavier and more focused on rich sauces and melted cheese.
Chicken cutlets are a prime example of this difference. In Italy, chicken cutlets are often served with a light breading and a squeeze of lemon, while in the United States, they are often served with a heavier breading and a rich marinara sauce.
| Italian Cuisine | Italian-American Cuisine |
|---|---|
| Lighter and more focused on fresh ingredients | Heavier and more focused on rich sauces and melted cheese |
| Chicken cutlets are often served with a light breading and a squeeze of lemon | Chicken cutlets are often served with a heavier breading and a rich marinara sauce |
Conclusion
In conclusion, while chicken cutlets are not as widely consumed in Italy as they are in the United States, they are still a popular dish in both countries. The dish has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century, and it has evolved over time to become a staple of Italian-American cuisine.
Whether you prefer the lighter, more traditional Italian version or the heavier, more richly sauced Italian-American version, chicken cutlets are a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to please.
So the next time you’re in the mood for Italian food, consider trying a chicken cutlet. You might just find that it’s a dish that you’ll come back to again and again.
Key Takeaways:
- Chicken cutlets have a long history that dates back to the 19th century.
- The dish originated in Austria and Germany, but it was later adopted by Italian chefs.
- Chicken cutlets are a popular dish in both Italy and the United States, but they are more widely consumed in the United States.
- The dish has evolved over time to become a staple of Italian-American cuisine.
- There are many regional variations of chicken cutlets in Italy, each with its own unique twist.
- Chicken parmesan is a popular variation of chicken cutlets that originated in the United States.
Do Italians really eat chicken cutlets?
Italians do eat chicken cutlets, but not in the same way that Italian-Americans do. In Italy, chicken cutlets are known as “cotolette di pollo” and are typically breaded and fried, but they are not as popular as other meat dishes. Italian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and different regions have their own specialties and preferences.
While chicken cutlets may not be a staple in Italian cuisine, they are still enjoyed in some parts of the country, particularly in the northern regions. However, the way they are prepared and served is often different from the Italian-American version. For example, in Italy, chicken cutlets might be served with a side of vegetables or salad, rather than pasta or marinara sauce.
What is the origin of chicken cutlets in Italian-American cuisine?
Chicken cutlets, also known as “cutlets” or “breaded cutlets,” have their roots in Italian cuisine, but they became a staple in Italian-American cuisine in the mid-20th century. Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them to the United States, where they adapted to local tastes and ingredients.
In the United States, chicken cutlets became a popular dish in Italian-American restaurants and households, particularly in the Northeast. They were often served with pasta, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, which became a classic Italian-American combination. Over time, chicken cutlets became a staple in Italian-American cuisine, and their popularity endures to this day.
How do Italians typically prepare chicken cutlets?
In Italy, chicken cutlets are typically prepared by breading and frying them. The breading is usually made with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and the cutlets are fried in olive oil until crispy and golden brown. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients, such as grated Parmesan cheese or chopped herbs.
Unlike Italian-American chicken cutlets, which are often served with a rich tomato sauce, Italian-style chicken cutlets are often served with a lighter sauce, such as a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil. This allows the natural flavors of the chicken and breading to shine through.
What is the difference between Italian and Italian-American chicken cutlets?
The main difference between Italian and Italian-American chicken cutlets is the way they are prepared and served. Italian chicken cutlets are typically lighter and more delicate, with a focus on the natural flavors of the chicken and breading. Italian-American chicken cutlets, on the other hand, are often heavier and more indulgent, with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Another difference is the type of breading used. Italian chicken cutlets often use a lighter breading made with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, while Italian-American chicken cutlets may use a heavier breading made with panko breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese.
Can I make authentic Italian chicken cutlets at home?
Yes, you can make authentic Italian chicken cutlets at home with a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques. Start by pounding the chicken breasts thin and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and herbs. Then, dip the chicken in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs, and fry them in olive oil until crispy and golden brown.
To make your chicken cutlets more authentic, try using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh breadcrumbs and real Parmesan cheese. You can also serve them with a side of vegetables or salad, rather than pasta or marinara sauce. This will give you a more authentic Italian experience.
Are chicken cutlets a popular dish in Italy?
Chicken cutlets are not a particularly popular dish in Italy, especially compared to other meat dishes like pasta with meat sauce or osso buco. However, they are still enjoyed in some parts of the country, particularly in the northern regions.
In Italy, chicken cutlets are often served as a second course, or “secondo,” which is a smaller dish served after the pasta course. They may also be served as a snack or appetizer, or as part of a larger meal.
Can I find chicken cutlets on the menu in Italy?
You may be able to find chicken cutlets on the menu in some Italian restaurants, particularly in tourist areas or in the northern regions. However, they are not a common dish in most Italian restaurants, and you may have to look hard to find them.
If you do find chicken cutlets on the menu, they may be listed as “cotolette di pollo” or “pollo impanato.” They may also be served with a side of vegetables or salad, rather than pasta or marinara sauce.