Chicken Scallopini Recipe

Name: Chicken Scallopini
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 5, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scallopini Recipe

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks For more inspiration, check out this Easy Shrimp Alfredo Recipe recipe.
Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Chicken Scallopini Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to the dish

For the Sauce:

Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness while providing moisture
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors beautifully

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Scallopini Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by flattening the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap using a meat mallet; this ensures even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through; remove from pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic; sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Next, pour in chicken broth and lemon juice; scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Allow the sauce to simmer for about three minutes until slightly thickened; taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Combine

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet; spoon sauce over it and let it warm through for another minute before serving.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
Citrus Freshness: For an added zing, consider garnishing with lemon zest before serving

How to Serve Chicken Scallopini Recipe

This Chicken Scallopini Recipe is versatile and pairs wonderfully with: Breakfast Burritos with Chicken.

Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken scallopini sauce in advance. Cook the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on low heat while cooking the chicken.
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing the dish. It can last up to three months in the freezer if sealed properly.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken scallopini in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Suggestions for Chicken Scallopini Recipe

Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

One common mistake in making a chicken scallopini recipe is overcooking the chicken. When you cook chicken for too long, it becomes dry and tough, losing its tender texture. To prevent this, ensure you use thin slices of chicken breast and cook them quickly over medium-high heat. The ideal cooking time should be around 3 to 4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Quick cooking retains moisture, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.

Skipping the Marinade

Another mistake is skipping the marinade phase. Marinating your chicken not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. A simple marinade can include olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Allowing your chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes gives it time to absorb these flavors. Hot Honey Chicken Biscuits If you’re short on time, even a brief marinade can make a difference. Don’t overlook this step; it’s crucial for achieving that juicy and flavorful result in your chicken scallopini recipe.

Not Using Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is vital when preparing a delicious chicken scallopini recipe. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly. Similarly, fresh lemon juice offers brightness that enhances the overall taste. Dried herbs simply cannot replicate the intensity of their fresh counterparts. Whenever possible, opt for fresh produce to ensure your dish stands out. This small change can transform your meal from ordinary to extraordinary without much additional effort.

Neglecting Proper Sauce Preparation

Many overlook sauce preparation while making their chicken scallopini recipe. A well-made sauce complements your dish and enhances its richness. Start by deglazing the pan with white wine or broth after cooking the chicken to capture all those delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Add cream or butter for a silky finish and balance flavors with seasonings like salt and pepper. Skipping proper sauce preparation will leave your dish lacking depth and complexity, which are essential for an authentic Italian experience.

FAQs

What is Chicken Scallopini?

Chicken scallopini is a classic Italian dish featuring thinly sliced chicken breasts that are sautéed until golden brown and served with a flavorful sauce made from ingredients like lemon juice, white wine, or capers. This dish highlights simplicity in preparation yet delivers bold flavors that appeal to many palates. It’s often served over pasta or alongside vegetables for a complete meal. The term “scallopini” refers to how thinly the meat is prepared, allowing quick cooking while maintaining tenderness.

Can I Substitute Other Proteins in Chicken Scallopini Recipe?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can easily substitute other proteins such as turkey or veal in your scallopini recipe. Each protein will bring its unique flavor and texture to the dish but maintain similar preparation methods for consistency in taste and cooking time. For instance, turkey scallopini tends to be leaner than chicken but requires similar cooking techniques to achieve optimal tenderness without drying out.

How Do I Serve Chicken Scallopini?

Serving chicken scallopini is simple yet elegant. You can plate it over a bed of pasta or rice for a hearty meal or serve it alongside seasonal vegetables for a lighter option. Garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese adds visual appeal and extra flavor layers. You might also consider pairing your meal with crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauce left on the plate. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole recipe.

Can I Prepare Chicken Scallopini Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Preparing ahead makes mealtime easier without compromising flavor quality. You can marinate the chicken in advance and keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to cook it later in the day or even overnight for maximum flavor absorption. While it’s best to cook just before serving for optimal freshness, you can reheat cooked scallopini gently on low heat if necessary; just be careful not to overcook once again!

Conclusion for Chicken Scallopini Recipe

In conclusion, mastering a delicious chicken scallopini recipe requires attention to detail at every step—from selecting fresh ingredients to perfecting your sauce preparation. Avoiding common mistakes like overcooking or neglecting marinades ensures that you create tender and flavorful results every time you cook this classic dish. Remember that serving techniques also play an integral role in enhancing your dining experience—whether paired with pasta or vegetables—each choice contributes to an unforgettable meal. With these tips in mind, you’re well-equipped to impress family and friends with your culinary skills!

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📖 Recipe Card