This Chicken Scallopini is a winner! It’s quick to make and packed with flavor. Tender chicken is cooked with a buttery sauce and often served with a bit of lemon for a fresh taste.
When I make this dish, I can’t help but feel like a chef in a fancy restaurant! It pairs perfectly with pasta or rice. You’ll want to keep this one in your dinner rotation!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey cutlets work well as a substitute.
Flour: All-purpose flour is used for dredging to give the chicken a nice crust. If you’re gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch instead.
White Wine: Dry white wine adds flavor, but you can easily substitute with chicken broth if you prefer. Some people also like using white grape juice for a sweeter touch.
Capers: Capers give a briny pop to the dish. If you’re not a fan, try using olives or diced pickles as alternatives, but adjust the amount to taste.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken Scallopini?
Cooking the chicken properly is crucial for this dish. You want it juicy and tender, not dry. Start by pounding the cutlets to an even thickness, which helps them cook evenly.
- Heat your pan until it’s hot but not smoking, then add oil and butter to create a base for browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—this can cause steaming instead of frying. Work in batches if needed.
- Keep an eye on the time: about 3 minutes per side should give you that lovely golden brown color.
Following these steps will ensure your Chicken Scallopini turns out succulent and tasty every time!
The Best Chicken Scallopini
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (if not using wine)
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 2 lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Time Estimate:
Getting this delicious Chicken Scallopini ready will take about 30 minutes in total. This includes approximately 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create 8 thin cutlets. Place each cutlet between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about 1/4 inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the Chicken:
Spread the flour on a large plate or shallow dish. Take each chicken cutlet and dredge it in the flour, shaking off the excess. This will help to create a crispy crust when cooked.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add the chicken cutlets in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for about 3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, transfer them to a warm plate and cover to keep warm.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the dry white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to slightly reduce. Next, stir in the lemon juice, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, any additional chicken broth (if using), and capers. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the chicken cutlets to the pan, and spoon the sauce over them to warm through for 1-2 minutes. Carefully transfer the chicken scallopini to a serving plate. Drizzle more sauce on top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired.
Enjoy your delicious, tender, and tangy Chicken Scallopini! It’s lovely on its own or served alongside pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green vegetable.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor to the dish, though the cooking time may be slightly longer. Just ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for dredging the chicken. Just ensure your other ingredients, like broth and wine, are also gluten-free!
Can I Prepare the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of extra butter or broth as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Chicken Scallopini?
This dish goes wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You might also consider pairing it with roasted vegetables for a healthy touch!