Chicken Scallopini is a classic Italian dish that brings a little bit of Italy to your dinner table. Made with thinly pounded chicken breasts, this dish is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal. The chicken is cooked to golden perfection and topped with a creamy mushroom sauce, creating a main course that's both delicious and satisfying.

The secret to a great Chicken Scallopini lies in its ingredients and simple cooking process. You will need boneless chicken breasts, mushrooms, butter, and a mix of lemon zest and juice for a fresh kick. Using almond flour instead of regular flour makes it suitable for a low-carb diet, so you can enjoy this dish with less guilt.
Cooking Chicken Scallopini is an easy process. You start by pounding the chicken thin, making sure it cooks evenly. After cooking the chicken, you prepare the mushroom sauce in the same pan, adding broth and cream for richness. To serve, pair it with whole grains or a side of veggies. It's a versatile meal that fits various dietary needs, making it a great addition to your dinner rotation.
Table of Contents
- The Essentials of Chicken Scallopini
- Preparation Techniques
- Creating the Sauce
- Serving and Presentation
- Maximizing Leftovers
- RECIPE: Chicken Scallopini
- Frequently Asked Questions
The Essentials of Chicken Scallopini
Chicken Scallopini is a delicious dish that includes savory flavors and simple techniques. This dish highlights boneless, skinless chicken breasts and has a creamy sauce that makes it unique from similar recipes. Key kitchen tools can ensure a smoother cooking process, too.
Why choose boneless, skinless chicken breast?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for Chicken Scallopini because they are easy to work with and cook quickly. They are sliced or pounded thin to ensure even cooking.
When preparing, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to flatten the chicken to about a ¼-inch thickness. This helps it cook faster and more evenly. Plus, it's easier to dredge and sear these thin pieces, giving a nice crispy texture outside while retaining a juicy center.
What makes it different from chicken piccata?
Chicken Scallopini is often compared to chicken piccata, but there are some differences. While both dishes feature thin chicken slices, Scallopini uses a creamy mushroom sauce. Lemon juice and zest add bright flavors, making the dish more complex.
In contrast, chicken piccata focuses on a tangy lemon and caper sauce. The creamy sauce in Scallopini creates a rich taste, while chicken piccata offers a sharp, tangy flavor. These variations in sauces show how each dish brings its own twist to the table.
Kitchen Essentials for Making Chicken Scallopini
To make Chicken Scallopini, having the right kitchen tools is crucial. A heavy-bottomed skillet is needed for even heat distribution. A meat mallet is vital for pounding the chicken breasts to the right thickness.
Measuring cups and a good knife will help in preparing the ingredients. A whisk is useful for mixing the rich mushroom sauce, while utensils like tongs make flipping the chicken easier. With these essentials, cooking Chicken Scallopini becomes more efficient and enjoyable.
Preparation Techniques
Making Chicken Scallopini involves careful preparation to ensure tender, flavorful results. You'll be focusing on cleaning, slicing, and pounding the chicken for even thickness. Then, you'll season it with simple, flavorful ingredients before cooking it to perfection.
Cleaning, Slicing, and Pounding the Chicken
To start, rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Next, place each breast between two pieces of plastic wrap.
Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken until it's about ¼-inch thick. This creates thinly sliced meat, which helps it cook evenly and quickly.
Once pounded, cut the chicken breasts into smaller pieces if necessary. This step ensures the chicken is tender and easy to eat.
Seasoning the Chicken
Seasoning is key to enhancing the chicken's flavor. Start by sprinkling kosher salt and black pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts.
This simple seasoning complements the richness of the chicken without overpowering it. For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like parsley or sage.
Let the chicken rest briefly to allow the seasoning to adhere, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Dredging and Cooking
Dredge the seasoned chicken pieces in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This step creates a light crust, helping to lock in moisture.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding olive oil and a bit of unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, carefully add the chicken.
Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Ensure not to crowd the pan to maintain the crispy, pan-fried texture. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness and size of the chicken pieces to ensure even browning.
Creating the Sauce
This section highlights different ways to make sauce for Chicken Scallopini. You’ll learn how to create citrusy lemon butter, a creamy mushroom sauce, a piccata-style wine-based sauce, and options for wine alternatives. Each method adds its unique flavor to the dish, making it versatile for various palates.
Lemon Butter Enhancement
To make a luscious lemon butter sauce, start by melting unsalted butter in a pan. Add minced garlic and cook for a couple of minutes until fragrant. Then, introduce fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for a bright, tangy flavor. This combination gives a refreshing taste while enhancing the chicken's flavor.
If you like creamy textures, a small amount of heavy whipping cream can be integrated to create a richer sauce. This is excellent to serve over the chicken, as it balances nicely with the crispy texture of the meat. Don't forget to sprinkle a touch of salt and pepper to taste.
Mushroom Sauce Variation
For a creamy mushroom sauce, use baby bella mushrooms. Sauté these mushrooms in a mix of olive oil and a tablespoon of butter until they soften. The mushrooms release moisture that enriches the sauce's flavor. Add chicken broth and let it simmer to deepen the taste.
Pour heavy cream into the pan and allow it to simmer until the sauce thickens. This gives the sauce a smooth, velvety texture. The mushroom sauce beautifully complements the thin, crispy chicken breasts, offering a comforting feel. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.
Piccata-Style Wine-Based Sauce
A piccata-style sauce typically uses dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio. Start by sautéing shallots and minced garlic until they're soft. Pour in your choice of white wine, and scrape any browned bits off the pan’s bottom to enrich the sauce.
Add in capers and squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice. This introduces a tangy and slightly salty flavor profile. Allow the sauce to simmer until it reduces slightly, creating a rich coating for the chicken. This wine-based sauce works well if you enjoy more intense flavors in your dish.
Wine Substitute for the Sauce
If you prefer not to use alcohol, there are tasty alternatives. Replace white wine with a combination of chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice. This maintains the tangy and savory notes of a classic wine sauce without the alcohol content.
For those looking for more depth, mix apple cider vinegar with water to simulate the acidity of wine. Add to the base sauce elements like minced garlic and capers for flavor. This substitute option is perfect for anyone who wishes to skip alcohol without sacrificing taste.
Serving and Presentation
When serving Chicken Scallopini, aim for a balance of flavor and visual appeal. Consider using garnishes and thoughtful plating techniques. Include suitable sides and wine options to enhance the meal experience.
Plating Techniques
For an appealing presentation, arrange the chicken scallopini neatly on a plate. Place the mushroom cream sauce over the chicken but let some of the chicken remain visible. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and add a slice of lemon for a pop of brightness.
Consider placing the chicken slightly off-center with the sauce in a gentle spiral around it. Use a white plate to make the dish's colors stand out. Keeping the plating clean and simple creates an elegant look.
Accompaniments and Sides
Serve your Chicken Scallopini with angel hair pasta or spaghetti for a classic pairing. The pasta helps absorb the sauce nicely. If you prefer, go with rice or mashed potatoes. These support the creamy sauce well, adding a satisfying balance to each bite.
Accompany the dish with a fresh Caesar salad that adds a crisp contrast. You can also serve lightly steamed vegetables like asparagus or peas for a healthy side, enhancing both taste and texture.
Wine Selection and Service
Pair your Chicken Scallopini with a white wine to complement the tangy and creamy flavors. Chardonnay is an excellent option because its buttery notes match the creamy sauce. A Sauvignon Blanc is suitable if you prefer something crisper with light acidity to balance the richness.
Serve the wine chilled but not too cold to preserve its flavors. Pour the wine into clear glasses to appreciate its color, swirling gently to release its aroma. This addition transforms the meal into an elegant dining experience that you'll enjoy.
Maximizing Leftovers
When you have leftover chicken scallopini, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This will help keep the flavors fresh. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer bag for up to 4 months.
Reheating Tips:
- Stovetop: Reheat the chicken in a dry skillet over medium heat. If you want to loosen the sauce, add a splash of chicken broth.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
Serving Suggestions:
- Transform your leftovers into a new meal. Slice the chicken and add it to pasta or rice for an easy lunch.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
For different dietary needs, try using almond flour instead of regular flour. It’s a great low-carb option. If you want, sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving to add a burst of fresh flavor. Enjoy your delicious leftovers in a new way!
RECIPE: Chicken Scallopini
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose or almond flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Place each chicken breast between plastic wrap.
- Pound to ¼-inch thickness.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Dredge in flour, shake off excess.
Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
- Set aside.
Cook the Mushrooms
- Use the same skillet, adding olive oil and butter.
- Cook mushrooms until tender, 5-7 minutes.
Make the Sauce
- Add chicken broth and scrape up browned bits.
- Stir in cream, lemon zest, and juice.
- Simmer 2-3 minutes.
Combine and Serve
- Return chicken to skillet.
- Spoon sauce over chicken.
- Cook 2 more minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon.
Serve
- Pair with quinoa, rice, or veggies.
Cooking Tips
- Thickness: Pound chicken evenly for uniform cooking.
- Flour Option: Use almond flour for a low-carb version.
- Consistency: Simmer longer to thicken the sauce, or add broth to thin it.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken: Good source of lean protein.
- Mushrooms: Adds fiber and minerals.
- Lemon: Boosts vitamin C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chicken Scallopini is a tasty meal that many people love. It includes thinly sliced chicken cooked with flavorful ingredients, making it a fun dish to enjoy at home. Here are answers to some common questions you might have about this dish.
What are the key differences between Chicken Scallopini and Chicken Piccata?
Chicken Scallopini is pounded thin and cooked in a sauce with mushrooms, lemon, and wine. Meanwhile, Chicken Piccata is also thinly sliced but uses a lemon and caper sauce. Both are delicious but have their own unique flavors.
How does Chicken Scallopini differ from Chicken Francese in terms of cooking technique and flavor?
Chicken Francese typically involves dipping the chicken in egg before cooking, resulting in a richer texture. It also features a lemon butter sauce, giving a slightly different flavor compared to the creamy sauce in Scallopini.
Can I use a different chicken part instead of boneless, skinless chicken breast?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones, and flatten them for even cooking like the breasts.
Can I use a different type of flour?
You can substitute almond flour for a low-carb choice. This may give a slightly nutty taste and works well if you're following a specific diet.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Sure! You can use canola or avocado oil as a substitute. Each type of oil might slightly change the flavor but will still work fine for cooking.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
Button or cremini mushrooms work well in Chicken Scallopini. They add a nice earthy flavor, but you can try shiitake for something different.
What ingredients are essential for making Chicken Scallopini sauce?
You need chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest for the sauce. These create a creamy and tangy base for the dish, perfect with the chicken.
What are some variations of Chicken Scallopini that incorporate pasta or red sauce?
You can serve Scallopini over pasta for a complete meal. Adding a splash of marinara to the sauce gives a tomato-based twist if you prefer a red sauce.
How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
To prevent the sauce from curdling, use room temperature cream and add it gradually to the skillet. Stirring constantly over low heat helps keep the sauce smooth.
How do I ensure the chicken cooks evenly?
To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, flatten the chicken to an even thickness before cooking. This helps the chicken cook at the same rate, preventing overcooking.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the skillet?
Heat the skillet with oil properly before adding the chicken. Ensure the pan is hot enough so the chicken releases easily once crispy.
I don't have a skillet; can I use a wok instead?
A wok can be used if you don't have a skillet. It will cook the chicken differently, but it's still a viable option.
Can you suggest some side dishes that pair well with Chicken Scallopini?
Chicken Scallopini goes well with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Whole grains like quinoa or brown rice also complement the flavors nicely.
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