Description
This classic Chicken Scallopini recipe features tender pounded chicken breasts sautéed to golden perfection and served with a flavorful lemon, garlic, and caper sauce. Perfect for a quick and elegant meal, this dish combines simple ingredients to create a delightful, tangy sauce that enhances the naturally mild chicken. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal dinner option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced and pounded thin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup white wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Pound and Season the Chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin to ensure they cook evenly. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sauté for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth if not using wine) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the chicken broth and lemon juice, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce and Return Chicken: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the capers if using. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Let everything simmer together for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to warm through.
- Serve: Transfer the chicken to serving plates, spoon additional sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes such as pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Pounding the chicken evenly is key to quick and uniform cooking.
- White wine adds a nice depth to the sauce, but chicken broth can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute.
- Capers add a briny flavor that complements the lemon but can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste.
- Serve with light sides like sautéed greens or mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian