Classic Chicken Scallopini

This classic chicken scallopini recipe transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a restaurant-quality dinner that feels fancy but comes together in just 30 minutes. The tender chicken cutlets bathed in a bright lemon-butter sauce create a meal that's both elegant and comforting for any night of the week.

I first made this scallopini when trying to recreate my grandmother's signature dish from her small Italian restaurant. After years of tweaking, this version finally earned her nod of approval, which is why it remains a staple in my dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Thin slicing and pounding creates tender cutlets that cook quickly and evenly
• All purpose flour: Creates a delicate coating that helps the chicken brown beautifully
• Olive oil and butter: The combination gives you the perfect balance of flavor and proper cooking temperature
• Fresh garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the sauce
• White wine: Deglazes the pan and adds complexity to the sauce; use a dry variety you would drink
• Chicken broth: Forms the body of the sauce and adds savory richness
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish with essential acidity
• Capers: Optional but highly recommended for their briny pop of flavor
• Fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh herbaceous finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Place between plastic wrap and pound to about 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet or heavy pan. This ensures quick even cooking and maximum tenderness.

Season and Dredge:

Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place flour on a plate and lightly dredge each piece of chicken ensuring a thin even coating while shaking off excess. The flour creates a delicate crust and helps thicken the sauce later.

Cook the Chicken:

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter until butter is melted and foaming subsides. Working in batches to avoid crowding cook chicken for 2 3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Build the Sauce Base:

In the same pan without cleaning it add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Immediately add white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce by half about 2 minutes.

Develop the Sauce:

Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice bring to a simmer and cook for 3 4 minutes until the sauce begins to reduce and thicken slightly. This concentration intensifies the flavors and creates a more luxurious texture.

Finish the Dish:

Reduce heat to low and add remaining 2 tablespoons butter and capers if using swirling the pan until butter is melted and incorporated. Return chicken to the pan along with any accumulated juices. Spoon sauce over the chicken and simmer gently for 1 2 minutes allowing the flavors to meld together.

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You Must Know

The capers might seem like a small addition but they completely transform this dish. I remember serving this to my Italian neighbor who immediately recognized the flavor from her childhood in Sicily. She told me it was the capers that made all the difference bringing that authentic Mediterranean touch.

Make Ahead Options

This chicken scallopini can be partially prepared in advance to make dinner even quicker. Pound and slice the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and store covered in the refrigerator. You can also prepare the ingredients separately measuring and chopping everything ahead of time. The completed dish is best enjoyed fresh but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to revive the sauce.

Perfect Pairings

Chicken scallopini shines when served alongside simple sides that complement without competing. Angel hair pasta tossed with a bit of butter and parsley makes an ideal base for soaking up the delicious sauce. Roasted asparagus or green beans add color and nutrition while maintaining the Italian theme. For a complete meal consider starting with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil to echo the flavors in the main course.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What sides pair well with Chicken Scallopini?

It pairs wonderfully with angel hair pasta, risotto, or mashed potatoes. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans are also great choices.

→ Can I make Chicken Scallopini ahead of time?

Yes, components can be prepped in advance. Pound and season the chicken ahead, and reheat gently with broth before serving.

→ What's the best substitute for white wine?

Use extra chicken broth with a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice. A touch of Dijon mustard can also enhance depth.

→ How do I properly pound chicken?

Place chicken between plastic or in a ziplock bag. Use a meat mallet to pound gently outward from the center to 1/4 inch thickness.

→ Why does my sauce look greasy?

The sauce can break if butter is added over high heat. Remove from heat and whisk in cold butter gradually to emulsify.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter. Add a touch of nutritional yeast for a rich, savory finish.