When you think of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, Chicken Scallopini tops the list. Picture this: tender chicken breasts sautéed to golden perfection, drizzled with a zesty lemon sauce that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like an Italian serenade, making everyone wonder when they can dig in.
This delightful dish is not just about flavor but also about memories. I remember the first time I cooked Chicken Scallopini; my friends gathered around the table, their eyes lighting up at the first bite. The laughter and compliments flowed like the wine we shared that night. It’s perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Scallopini recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- Its bright flavors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- You can customize it with various sides to suit your taste preferences
- Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
I recall my friend Sarah’s eyes widening as she took her first bite of this dish; now she insists on having it at every potluck!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
- All-Purpose Flour: A light dusting helps create a beautiful crust that locks in moisture while cooking.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: It adds brightness and acidity that elevate the dish beautifully—fresh is best!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still enhancing flavors.
- Olive Oil: A must-have for searing the chicken; its rich flavor complements the dish perfectly.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness as a garnish—because we eat with our eyes too!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other flavors; don’t skip these!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing your boneless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them until about half an inch thick for even cooking.
Dredge in Flour: Lightly coat each breast in all-purpose flour and shake off any excess. This creates a lovely crust during cooking while keeping the inside juicy.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the floured chicken breasts carefully and cook until golden brown on both sides for about 3-4 minutes each side.
Create the Sauce: Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, pour in some chicken broth and fresh lemon juice. Scrape up those tasty brown bits from the bottom—it’s where all the flavor hides!
Add Fresh Parsley: Stir in chopped parsley along with salt and pepper to taste before returning the chicken to soak up all those zesty flavors for another minute or two.
Serve Hot!: Plate your Chicken Scallopini drizzled with sauce and extra parsley for that pop of color. Enjoy with pasta or veggies on the side!
Cooking doesn’t have to be intimidating; it’s more about enjoying good food and sharing moments with loved ones. So roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!
You Must Know
- This chicken scallopini recipe combines tender chicken with a delicious lemon sauce
- It’s quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and impressive enough for guests
- The aromas of sautéed garlic and fresh herbs will have everyone flocking to the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown to lock in juices, then prepare your sauce while it rests. This sequence ensures a flavorful dish with moist chicken.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional seasonings for your favorites, like adding capers or switching lemon for lime. Customize it according to your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the chicken’s tenderness and sauce flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use thinly sliced chicken breasts for quicker cooking and better texture
- Always let meat rest after cooking; this keeps it juicy
- Experiment with different sauces, like a creamy mushroom variation, for exciting flavors
Sharing this recipe always brings smiles at gatherings; my friends rave about the zesty flavors and tender chicken! It’s a true crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
FAQ
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute turkey or pork cutlets for a delightful twist.
What should I serve with chicken scallopini?
Pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken; it should be golden brown and juicy.
Chicken Scallopini Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Scallopini is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a zesty lemon sauce, perfect for impressing family and friends.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- All-purpose flour
- Fresh lemon juice
- Low-sodium chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to about half an inch thick.
- Dredge in Flour: Lightly coat each breast with flour and shake off excess.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Create the Sauce: Remove chicken, add broth and lemon juice to the skillet, scraping up brown bits for flavor.
- Add Fresh Parsley: Stir in parsley, salt, and pepper before returning chicken to pan for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve Hot: Plate the Chicken Scallopini with sauce drizzled on top and garnish with parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken scallopini (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Customize with capers or switch lemon for lime for a different flavor profile. Use thinly sliced chicken for quicker cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stovetop.