Master the Best Chicken Scallopini Recipe for a Delicious Meal

Chicken Scallopini is a classic Italian-American dish that has become a staple in households across the country. This delectable recipe features tender chicken breasts that are pounded thin, dredged in flour, and sautéed to perfection. The real showstopper, though, is the rich and creamy mushroom sauce that coats each bite. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal in your own kitchen.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Best Chicken Scallopini

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 oz. each)
• 1¼ tsp kosher salt, divided
• 1 tsp black pepper, divided
• ½ cup all-purpose flour, plus 1 tsp for sauce
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms
• 2 shallots, sliced (about ½ cup)
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• ½ tsp grated lemon zest, plus extra for garnish

Each ingredient in this Best Chicken Scallopini Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. The chicken breasts provide the protein base, while the flour helps to create a delicate crust. The olive oil and butter contribute richness, and the mushrooms, shallots, and cream come together to make the luxurious sauce. The lemon zest and parsley add a bright, fresh finish to the dish.

If you don’t have access to cremini mushrooms, you can substitute button or white mushrooms. And if you’re not a fan of shallots, you can use minced onion instead. The key is to use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best results.

How to Make the Best Chicken Scallopini

Preparing the Best Chicken Scallopini Recipe is a straightforward process, but the techniques used make all the difference. Let’s walk through the steps:

Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Start by slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create two thin cutlets. Place the cutlets between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to about ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and develops a delicious golden crust.

Season and Coat the Chicken

Season the pounded chicken cutlets with ¾ tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper. Dredge each cutlet in the ½ cup of all-purpose flour, making sure they are evenly coated on both sides.

Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the floured chicken cutlets and cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate.

Prepare the Mushroom Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, shallots, and the remaining ½ tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-6 minutes, or until the mushrooms are nicely browned.

Finish the Sauce

Stir in 1 tsp of all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute. This helps to thicken the sauce. Then, add the heavy cream, chopped parsley, and lemon zest, stirring until everything is well combined. Remove the skillet from the heat.

Serve the Best Chicken Scallopini

Return the cooked chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning the rich mushroom sauce over the top to coat them evenly. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest and serve immediately.

Cooking Techniques for the Best Chicken Scallopini

The key to achieving the perfect Best Chicken Scallopini Recipe lies in the cooking techniques used. Sautéing the chicken over medium-high heat helps to create a delicious golden-brown crust, while the mushroom sauce gets its velvety texture from the butter and cream. Pounding the chicken thin ensures even cooking and a tender, juicy result.

For the best flavor, be sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The lemon zest and parsley add a bright, fresh element that balances the richness of the dish. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of mushrooms or herbs to suit your personal taste preferences.

What to Serve with Chicken Scallopini

The Best Chicken Scallopini Recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include:

• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles or linguine
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Sautéed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli

For a complete meal, you can also serve the chicken scallopini with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious mushroom sauce. And don’t forget to recommend a nice, dry white wine to complement the flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between scallopini and piccata chicken?

The main difference between scallopini and piccata chicken lies in the sauce. Chicken scallopini is served with a creamy mushroom sauce, while chicken piccata is typically prepared with a lemon-caper sauce. Both dishes feature thinly pounded chicken breasts, but the sauces provide distinct flavor profiles.

What exactly is Chicken Scallopini?

Chicken scallopini is a classic Italian-American dish that consists of thin, pounded chicken breasts that are dredged in flour and sautéed until golden brown. The chicken is then served with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, often with the addition of lemon zest and parsley for freshness.

What goes well with Chicken Scallopini?

Chicken scallopini pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted garlic mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles or linguine, fresh green salads, and sautéed or roasted vegetables. The creamy mushroom sauce also pairs nicely with a dry white wine.

What makes something scallopini?

The term “scallopini” refers to a dish where the main protein, often chicken or veal, is pounded thin and then cooked quickly, usually by sautéing. This technique results in a tender, evenly cooked protein that can be easily cut and enjoyed. The scallopini preparation method allows the protein to cook quickly while also developing a delicious golden-brown crust.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Chicken Piccata
• Chicken Marsala

Conclusion

The Best Chicken Scallopini Recipe is a true Italian-American classic that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its tender, flavorful chicken and rich, creamy mushroom sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. By following the simple techniques outlined in this article, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. So grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to enjoy the Best Chicken Scallopini Recipe you’ve ever tasted!

For more snack ideas and kitchen inspiration, follow me on Pinterest.

Print