Here’s a delicious and elegant recipe for Chicken Scallopini, featuring thinly sliced chicken in a light, flavorful sauce:
Chicken Scallopini
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 large breasts, halved horizontally)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp capers (optional, for an added briny flavor)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken
- If using whole chicken breasts, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets (this helps them cook more quickly and evenly).
- Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound with a meat mallet to an even thickness of about ¼ inch.
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Cook the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken cutlets in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze and incorporate the flavorful browned bits from the chicken.
- Bring the liquid to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the lemon juice and capers (if using).
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over it. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes to reheat the chicken and allow the flavors to meld.
- Finish and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on serving plates.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
Tips:
- Flavor Variations: You can add a splash of cream to the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Add Veggies: Stir in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for added flavor and texture.
This Chicken Scallopini is a wonderful choice for a quick yet elegant meal.