Chicken Scallopini

Chicken Scallopini is a tender, pan-seared chicken dish coated in a light, lemony butter sauce that’s perfect for any night of the week. Traditionally Italian, this recipe delivers rich, tangy flavor with minimal ingredients and prep. Serve it with pasta, rice, or sautéed vegetables for a comforting and elegant meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
• Classic Italian flavor: Garlic, lemon, butter, and herbs create a deliciously bright sauce.
• Light yet satisfying: Thin chicken cutlets cook quickly and stay juicy.
• Pairs with everything: Works with pasta, mashed potatoes, or simple greens.
• Great for entertaining: Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for everyday.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 large breasts, halved and pounded thin)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

this recipe

1. Pound the chicken: Place chicken between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to ¼-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge: Lightly coat the chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.
4. Deglaze the pan: Add wine (or broth) and lemon juice to the skillet. Scrape up any brown bits and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
5. Finish the sauce: Reduce heat and stir in butter and capers (if using). Let the sauce thicken slightly.
6. Return chicken to skillet: Add chicken back into the pan to warm through, spooning sauce over the top.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Creamy scallopini: Add ¼ cup heavy cream to the sauce for a richer version.
• Mushroom scallopini: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the chicken or before deglazing.
• Piccata-style: Add extra capers and finish with lemon slices.
• Low-carb: Skip the flour and just pan-sear the seasoned chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the lemon-butter sauce may separate when reheated.

FAQs

What is scallopini?

Scallopini refers to thinly sliced or pounded meat, often dredged in flour and sautéed quickly, typically served with a flavorful sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless thighs work well—just make sure they’re flattened to even thickness for quick cooking.

What kind of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay works best.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, cook and refrigerate. Reheat gently and spoon extra sauce over to refresh the flavor.

Can I skip the wine?

Absolutely—chicken broth is a great substitute.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and be golden on the outside.

Is Chicken Scallopini the same as Chicken Piccata?

They’re similar, but piccata always includes capers and a slightly more tangy sauce.

Can I add garlic?

Yes! Sauté a clove of minced garlic in the pan before adding the wine and lemon juice.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend works well for dredging.

What side dishes go best?

Mashed potatoes, angel hair pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Chicken Scallopini is a classic, delicious dish that’s quick to prepare and full of fresh, zesty flavor. With its delicate lemon-butter sauce and perfectly seared chicken, it’s the kind of meal that feels special but fits right into a busy schedule. Keep this recipe on hand for effortless weeknight elegance.

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