The Chicken Scallopini Recipe is a timeless Italian-American classic that brings together tender, thinly pounded chicken breasts bathed in a vibrant lemon-caper sauce. This dish is a perfect balance of zest and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Its simple yet elegant ingredients come together quickly on the stovetop, delivering a meal that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this Chicken Scallopini Recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with your Chicken Scallopini Recipe means gathering a handful of straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that all play a crucial role in the dish’s flavor profile and texture.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin: Ensures quick cooking and tender bites.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: For dredging the chicken to create a light crust that locks in juiciness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors subtly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and peppery aroma.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a fruity richness and a great searing base.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce and cooking process.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine: Brings acidity and complexity; optional but highly recommended.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Creates a luscious sauce base without overpowering saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Delivers a bright pop of citrus that lifts the dish.
- 1/4 cup capers: Infuses bursts of briny tang, elevating the flavor harmony.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, herbal finish and vibrant color.
- Optional lemon slices for garnish: Adds visual appeal and extra zest if desired.
How to Make Chicken Scallopini Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Pound the Chicken
Start by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap—this makes pounding a breeze and cuts down on mess. Pound the chicken until it’s about 1/4-inch thick. Thinner pieces cook evenly and absorb the sauce better, resulting in tender, flavorful bites.
Step 2: Dredge Chicken in Seasoned Flour
Mix the flour with salt and black pepper in a shallow dish. Coat each chicken piece thoroughly by dredging it in this mixture, then shake off any excess flour. This coating forms a delicate crust that locks in moisture while giving the sauce something to cling to beautifully.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and cook them 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This golden crust not only looks gorgeous but also adds a wonderful texture contrast.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and keep it warm. Lower the heat to medium, pour the dry white wine into the skillet, and scrape up all the yummy browned bits left from cooking. Let the wine simmer and reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes—this step intensifies the flavor within the sauce.
Step 5: Add Broth, Lemon, and Capers
Next, pour in the chicken broth, stir in the lemon juice, and toss in the capers. Let everything cook together for 3 to 4 minutes to meld the flavors and thicken the sauce just a bit. The capers provide a savory-salty punch that perfectly balances the tangy lemon.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the luscious sauce over them, and simmer for an additional 2 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the flavors and ensures everything is piping hot and ready to serve. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for that inviting herbal burst.
How to Serve Chicken Scallopini Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate this dish instantly. Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of green but also a mild herbaceous note that balances the bold capers and lemon. Thin lemon slices on the side bring extra vibrancy and a fragrant citrus aroma that guests will love.
Side Dishes
Chicken Scallopini pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the lemony sauce wonderfully, while al dente pasta offers a comforting vessel for extra bites of chicken and sauce. Sautéed green vegetables, like asparagus or spinach, add color and a fresh contrast, creating a well-rounded plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange the chicken atop a bed of linguine tossed lightly with olive oil and garlic, then drizzle with sauce and capers. Alternatively, stack two pieces of chicken and layer a few lemon slices on top, creating an elegant layered effect that’s sure to impress at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days while maintaining most of their fresh flavor and texture.
Freezing
Chicken Scallopini freezes well if you want to enjoy it later. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, with extra sauce to help preserve moisture. Freeze for up to two months. When thawed, the chicken remains tender, and the sauce retains its bright, tangy essence.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat to prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth or a small pat of butter can help refresh the sauce’s silkiness. Avoid high heat and microwaves to keep every bite as delightful as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Veal or turkey cutlets work wonderfully with this recipe, offering a slightly different texture but similar flavor profile. Just make sure to pound them to a similar thinness for even cooking.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, additional chicken broth with a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice makes a fine substitute. This maintains the acidity and depth without the alcohol.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or an extra pat of butter right at the end of cooking. This adds a velvety texture that complements the lemon-caper tang beautifully.
Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, Chicken Scallopini is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if you serve it without pasta or bread. The flour coating adds minimal carbs but enhances texture significantly.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
You can prepare the sauce and even pound and dredge the chicken in advance. Store separately and cook right before serving to maintain optimal freshness and texture. This approach makes hosting relaxed and easy!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Chicken Scallopini Recipe that makes it a go-to for anyone craving a dish that’s quick to whip up yet sophisticated in flavor. From its tender chicken to the bright, tangy sauce, every bite feels like a warm hug with an Italian twist. Give this recipe a try soon—you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again!
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Chicken Scallopini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low-Carb
Description
Chicken Scallopini is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender, thinly pounded chicken breasts lightly coated in seasoned flour, pan-seared to a golden perfection, and served with a tangy and savory lemon-caper sauce. This quick and elegant stovetop recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, offering a delightful balance of flavors enhanced by fresh lemon juice, capers, and white wine.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
Dredging Mixture
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Sauce
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup capers
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- Dredge Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the flour with salt and black pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess to create a light coating.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.
- Make Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the white wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add Broth and Flavorings: Add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers to the skillet. Continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and reduce a bit.
- Finish and Serve: Return the chicken breasts to the pan, spoon the sauce over them, and simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with chopped parsley and optional lemon slices before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or an additional pat of butter into the sauce at the end of cooking.
- Serve this dish alongside pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or sautéed vegetables to complete the meal.
- If you prefer not to cook with wine, simply replace the white wine with extra chicken broth without compromising flavor.
