Looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare yet elegant enough to impress guests? Look no further than Chicken Scallopini. This Italian-American favorite features tender chicken breasts sautéed to golden perfection, bathed in a rich lemon-butter sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or entertaining, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Chicken Scallopini
To bring this delicious recipe to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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½ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ teaspoon garlic powder
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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½ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine for more depth)
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¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
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2 tablespoons capers (optional but traditional)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
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Lemon slices, for garnish
Required Kitchen Tools
While this dish doesn’t require any fancy gadgets, having the right tools can streamline the process:
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Cutting board and sharp knife
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Meat mallet or rolling pin (to flatten the chicken)
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Shallow dish or plate for dredging
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Large skillet or sauté pan
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Tongs or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Prepare the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them to about ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
2: Season and Dredge
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4: Deglaze the Pan
Lower the heat to medium. Add chicken broth (or wine) to the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the lemon juice and capers (if using). Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the sauce reduce slightly.
5: Finish the Sauce
Turn off the heat and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until the sauce becomes glossy and smooth.
6: Return Chicken to Pan
Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece. Let it warm through for 1–2 minutes.
7: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, spoon more sauce over the top, and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Garnish with lemon slices for an elegant touch.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Scallopini
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Use thin chicken cutlets to reduce cooking time and ensure tenderness.
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Don’t skip the deglazing step—it adds a rich depth of flavor.
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Pair it with pasta like angel hair or linguine to soak up the lemon-butter sauce.
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Make it creamy by adding ¼ cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a luxurious twist.
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Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to make it a complete one-pan meal.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 30g
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Fat: 18g
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Carbohydrates: 10g
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Sugar: 1g
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Fiber: 0.5g
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Sodium: 500mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Weeknight Delight
Chicken Scallopini is more than just a dinner option—it’s a comforting classic that balances bold flavors and elegant simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a favorite in your home!
Ready to experience the bright, zesty flavor of Chicken Scallopini? Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and start cooking today!
