Chicken Modiga is an appetizing Italian-American dish that began in St. Louis, Missouri. This tasteful dish consists of crisp, breaded funk croquettes outgunned with rich white wine and bomb adulation sauce, rounded by melted Provel rubbish and a sprinkle of mushrooms. Chicken Modiga is a chief in numerous St. Louis Italian caffs, especially those told by the Hill neighborhood, known for its authentic Italian cookery.
In this composition, we will walk you through a step- by- step funk Modiga form, covering everything from component selection to serving suggestions. Whether you are new to this dish or looking to perfect your fashion, this companion will insure you produce a scrumptious, eatery-quality mess at home.
What Is Chicken Modiga?
Chicken Modiga is a conventional dish in St. Louis-Italian cuisine. Unlike traditional fun parmesan that drowns in marinara and mozza, Chicken Modiga utilizes a white wine-infused caboodle sauce of baked butter with crisp breadcrumbs and fruity Provel rubbish. The dish is usually offered on a bed of pasta or sided up to roasted vegetables, delivering a comforting, fulfilling mess.
Ingredients for Chicken Modiga
To make an authentic Chicken Modiga recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
For the Modiga Sauce:
- 1 cup dry white wine (Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup Provel cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and provolone if Provel is unavailable)
For Garnish & Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Pasta or roasted vegetables
Step-by-Step Instruction
1. Prepare the Chicken
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and mix with milk.
- In a third bowl, place the Italian breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, dip into the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to adhere.
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the breaded chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Make the Modiga Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened.
- Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a simmer and reduce the liquid by half (about 8-10 minutes).
- Stir in the remaining butter and fresh lemon juice.
- Season with red pepper flakes (optional) for added heat.
4. Assemble & Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the Modiga sauce over the fried chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle Provel cheese (or mozzarella-provolone blend) over the top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Modig recipe
- Use Thin Chicken Breasts: Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking.
- Provel Cheese is Key: If you can’t find Provel, use a mozzarella-provolone blend for similar creaminess.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Reducing the sauce properly helps concentrate the flavors.
- Pair with the Right Wine: Serve with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Serving Suggestions
Easy Chicken Modiga pairs well with:
- Angel hair or fettuccine pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic.
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
- Garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Side salad with balsamic dressing for a fresh contrast.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fats: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
1: Can I Make Chicken Modiga Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and Modiga sauce separately. Store them in the refrigerator and assemble just before baking.
2: What Can I Substitute for Provel Cheese?
If Provel cheese is unavailable, use a mix of mozzarella and provolone for a similar creamy texture.
Q3: Can I Bake the Chicken Instead of Frying?
Yes! Bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before adding the sauce and cheese.
4: Is Chicken Modiga Gluten-Free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
5: How Long Does Chicken Modiga Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, Chicken Modiga lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Chicken Modiga is a beloved St. Louis classic that delivers bold flavors in every bite. With its crispy chicken, rich lemon butter sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Follow this recipe for an authentic experience and enjoy a taste of St. Louis-style Italian cuisine right at home. Try it today and impress your guests with this irresistible Chicken Modiga recipe!
