Chicken Scallopini is a classic Italian dish that embodies the simplicity and elegance of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe features tender chicken breasts, pounded thin and pan-fried to perfection, served in a rich and vibrant sauce infused with the brightness of lemon, the depth of white wine, and the savory flavor of capers. The dish is not only a staple in Italian restaurants but also a testament to the versatility of chicken as a canvas for bold flavors. With its quick preparation time and impressive presentation, Chicken Scallopini is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
- (10-12 ounces each)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 8 ounces sliced button mushrooms
- 8 ounces sliced baby bella mushrooms
- ½ peeled and small-diced shallot
- 2 finely minced garlic cloves
- 13 tablespoons ice-cold unsalted butter, cut into ½” thick slices
- ¾ cup dry white wine
- Juice of ½ lemon, about 1 1/2 tablespoons
- ½ cup finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese + more for garnish
- Finely minced parsley and lemon zest for garnish, optional
- Coarse salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
Instructions
- Butterfly the Chicken: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and slice horizontally through the thickest part, stopping before cutting all the way through. Open the breast like a book and pound it gently with a mallet or the bottom of a pot to an even thickness.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Set aside on a parchment-lined sheet tray.
- Prepare the Flour: In a shallow dish, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Dredge the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the sliced mushrooms, shallots, and garlic. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
- Make the Sauce: Add the white wine to the skillet with the mushrooms and simmer until reduced by half. Stir in the butter until melted, then add the lemon juice and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Place the cooked chicken breasts on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the mushroom and sauce mixture over the chicken. Garnish with parsley and lemon zest if desired.
Top Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and lemon zest add a vibrant flavor and color to the dish.
- Don’t Overcook: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but still tender and juicy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Parmigiano Reggiano provides a rich, nutty flavor that complements the dish.
- Keep it Simple: Don’t overcomplicate the sauce; simplicity allows each flavor to shine.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the dish hot to enjoy the full flavors and textures.
Variations
- Mushroom Varieties: Experiment with different types of mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for varying flavors.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the sauce for added depth.
- Cheesy Addition: Top the chicken with sliced mozzarella cheese before serving for an extra creamy element.
- Citrus Swap: Use lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to coat the chicken for a gluten-free version.
Nutritional Guide
| Servings | Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 420 | 24g | 10g | 35g |
Additional nutritional notes: Chicken Scallopini is a relatively balanced dish, offering a good mix of protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the butter and olive oil. The mushrooms add fiber and antioxidants, while the lemon and herbs provide a boost of vitamin C and other essential nutrients. To make it healthier, consider reducing the amount of butter used in the sauce or substituting with a lighter option.
