Chicken Scallopini is an Italian-inspired dish featuring thin, tender chicken cutlets simmered in a buttery lemon and white wine sauce. It’s quick to prepare and full of fresh, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
1. Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour, for dredging
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 shallot or small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish
2. Cooking Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
3. Serving Quantity
- Serves 4
4. Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally, then pound them gently until ¼ inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Dredge in Flour: Lightly coat each piece in flour, shaking off excess.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt remaining butter. Add shallot and garlic; cook until soft and fragrant. Pour in white wine and broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
- Add Lemon and Chicken: Stir in lemon juice and capers. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes, spooning sauce over the top.
- Finish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with pasta, mashed potatoes, or sautéed greens.
5. Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
6. Tips for Best Results
- Pound the chicken evenly so it cooks quickly and stays tender.
- If you prefer a creamy version, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream at the end.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Substitute wine with extra broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving for a richer taste.
Chicken Scallopini delivers a simple yet elegant flavor—light, lemony, and satisfying, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
