Lemony Chicken Scallopini (A Weeknight Winner!)

Craving easy Chicken Scallopini? This lemon butter chicken is ready in 30 mins! Tender cutlets in a bright, delicious sauce. Get the recipe now! ... Quick & Wholesome
Recipe Introduction: Hello sunshine!
Ever get that craving for something bright and flavourful? this chicken scallopini recipe is just the ticket! it's basically sunshine on a plate, and i'm ready to spill the beans on how to make it absolutely amazing.
What's the Big Deal With Chicken Scallopini?
Chicken scallopini is like a fancy-pants chicken cutlet recipe ’s cousin, but way more approachable. it’s got those classic italian flavors but it’s so easy to pull off! the dish originates from italy, where 'scaloppini' refers to thin slices of meat, typically veal.
It's a dish that's celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. our version makes 4 servings.
This ain't no all-day affair! we are talking about a weeknight chicken dinners champion with a difficulty level that is easy! you'll need about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking.
Boom. done!
Why You'll Be Obsessed
Honestly, this recipe is special for so many reasons. for one, it’s a great source of lean protein. we're talking about making a super easy chicken scallopini that feels like you ordered takeout! it's the lemon butter chicken you've always dreamed of.
It's also the perfect dish when you want to impress without slaving away in the kitchen. imagine serving this up with some crusty bread to soak up that dreamy sauce – oh my gosh!.
Plus, the bright lemon and capers are just chef's kiss . this dish showcases that italian chicken recipes can be simple, quick, and divine.
Lemony Chicken Scallopini (A Weeknight Winner!) Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Do This!
Okay, let's dive into this Chicken Scallopini recipe like we're about to win the Great British Bake Off. Honestly, nailing the ingredients is half the battle. Don't worry, it's not rocket science!
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
For this delicious Easy Chicken Scallopini recipe, you'll need:
- 1 ½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This is your protein.
- ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting.
- ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) salt. A must!
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper. Freshly ground is always best.
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, divided. We want Lemon Butter Chicken .
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil. Extra virgin, if you're feeling fancy!
- ½ cup (120ml) dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio). Don't skip this part!
- ¼ cup (60ml) chicken broth. Keeps things moist and flavourful.
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice (from about 2 lemons). Freshness is key here.
- 2 tablespoons (30g) capers, drained. Adds a lovely tang.
- 2 tablespoons (10g) fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish. Pretty and tasty.
Quality Check: The chicken breasts should be plump and pink, not pale or slimy. Trust your gut (literally!).
Seasoning Notes: Flavor Town, Population: You
This isn't just any chicken main dishes recipe; it's got pizzazz . salt and pepper are crucial. fresh lemon juice is essential.
Don't be afraid to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a tiny kick. consider dried oregano for that italian chicken recipes vibe.
Capers are the secret weapon for Chicken Scallopini with Capers , but if you hate them, a splash of white wine vinegar can work in a pinch.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You don't need a fancy kitchen to make chicken scallopini like this, but you will need some tools. a meat mallet is ideal for creating pounded chicken breast recipes , but a rolling pin works too.
A large skillet is a must. shallow plates are very helpful.
Don't have a skillet? Use a large frying pan. Seriously, you can't go wrong!
Honestly, this Chicken Scallopini Sauce and Chicken Cutlet Recipes is surprisingly easy. It is perfect for Weeknight Chicken Dinners .
Alright, let's dive into this chicken scallopini recipe like we're about to win the great british bake off . honestly, it's easier than baking a decent scone! chicken scallopini is one of those dishes that sounds fancy, but it's surprisingly simple to whip up.
It is basically a lemon butter chicken , and you'll feel like a proper chef.

Cooking Method: Chicken Scallopini
Chicken Scallopini is about quick cooking and bright flavors. This ain't your Sunday roast; it's a weeknight hero. The key? Thin chicken cutlets and a zesty sauce.
Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic
Forget the chaos; a proper mise en place is your best mate. first, you'll need 1 ½ pounds (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Get them nice and thin by pounding to about ¼-inch thickness. a meat mallet is your friend here. but a rolling pin works in a pinch! also, measure out your ½ cup (60g) of flour , salt, pepper, butter, wine, broth, and lemon juice.
Chop your parsley. get everything prepped. this will save you time and stop that panicking. seriously, trust me on this.
Time-saving tip: Buy pre-cut chicken cutlets if you're feeling lazy. No judgement! Safety first: Wash your hands after handling raw chicken. Like, properly wash them.
Step-by-Step: Chicken Scallopini Sizzle
Okay, time to cook!
- Pound those chicken breasts thin and season with salt and pepper.
- Lightly dredge the chicken in flour; shake off the excess!
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken in batches 2- 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temp should be 165° F/ 74° C. Set aside.
- Add remaining butter to the skillet. Deglaze the pan with white wine. Simmer for 1 minute .
- Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Cook until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes .
Now, return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Pro Tips: Secrets to Success
Don't overcrowd the pan when searing! Sear in batches for proper browning. Browned bits equal flavor! Deglazing is essential. Also, fresh lemon juice is a game-changer. Bottled stuff just doesn't cut it.
Common mistake: overcooking the chicken. keep a close eye on it! make-ahead option: you can pound and flour the chicken ahead of time.
Store it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
So there you have it, a quick and tasty Chicken Main Dishes recipe which also makes for perfect Weeknight Chicken Dinners . Hope you like it!
Okay, let's dive into this Chicken Scallopini Recipe like we're about to win the Great British Bake Off. I’m going to spill all the secrets!
Recipe Notes
This Easy Chicken Scallopini is a weeknight hero. It is fast, flavourful, and fancy enough to impress! But before you grab your frying pan, let's chat about some important bits.
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Presentation matters, right? for plating and presentation, think sunshine. this lemon butter chicken looks gorgeous on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.
Or, try serving it with some vibrant sautéed green beans. i reckon a sprinkle of extra parsley and a lemon wedge elevate the presentation.
Want sides? A light pasta aglio e olio is perfect. Some crusty bread for soaking up that gorgeous sauce works too! For drinks, consider a crisp white wine, like a Pinot Grigio.
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
Got leftovers? no worries! for refrigeration guidelines, store your chicken scallopini with capers in an airtight container in the fridge.
It will keep for up to 3 days. honestly, it never lasts that long in my house!
Freezing options? i don't recommend freezing this one, to be honest. the sauce can get a bit weird when defrosted.
Reheating instructions? gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. don't overcook it! that chicken main dishes is already cooked, remember?
Variations: Let's Get Creative
This italian chicken recipes can be adapted to suit everyone. dietary adaptations? for a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour. for a dairy-free meal, use olive oil instead of butter.
Seasonal ingredient swaps? in the autumn, try adding some sautéed mushrooms. they complement the chicken scallopini sauce beautifully.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Let's talk nutrition! this pounded chicken breast recipes is packed with protein. this is great for keeping you full. the lemon juice provides a good dose of vitamin c.
Keep in mind that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary. the key health benefits? this dish is relatively low in carbs and fat, making it a healthy and delicious option.
There you have it! Making perfect Chicken Cutlet Recipes is possible. It is simpler than you think. Get in the kitchen, get cooking, and most importantly, have fun! Seriously. You've got this!

Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is chicken scallopini, anyway? Sounds fancy!
Chicken scallopini is basically an Italian-American dish featuring thinly sliced chicken breasts that are dredged in flour, pan-fried, and served with a flavourful sauce, often lemon-butter. Think of it as a posh chicken schnitzel, but with a zesty twist! It's a classic for a reason – easy to make and totally delicious.
How thin should I pound the chicken for my chicken scallopini? I don't want to end up with chicken paper!
Aim for about ¼-inch thickness. Too thin, and it will dry out quickly. Too thick, and it won't cook evenly. Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap (cling film) or in a resealable bag, and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it's evenly thin. Think Goldilocks – not too thin, not too thick, just right!
Can I make chicken scallopini ahead of time? I'm prepping for a dinner party and need to be organised like Monica from Friends!
You can definitely prep some of the components ahead of time. Pound the chicken, dredge it in flour, and store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. You can also make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving. However, for the best results, pan-fry the chicken just before serving so it stays nice and crispy. Reheating the chicken can make it a bit rubbery.
What are some good substitutions for the white wine in this chicken scallopini recipe? I'm all out, and the shops are closed!
No worries, substitutions are totally possible! The best substitute is extra chicken broth. You can also use a dry vermouth, or even a squeeze of lemon juice diluted with a bit of water. The wine adds a depth of flavor, so try to compensate with other flavorful ingredients like a touch more lemon or a pinch of herbs. Just don't use that dodgy cooking sherry lurking in the back of the cupboard!
How long does leftover chicken scallopini last in the fridge, and what's the best way to reheat it?
Leftover chicken scallopini will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. It will never be quite as crispy as when it's freshly made, but it will still be delicious!
I'm trying to eat healthier. Are there any lighter versions of chicken scallopini I can make?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour or almond flour for dredging, reduce the amount of butter, and use olive oil instead. You could also add more vegetables to the sauce, like mushrooms or artichoke hearts, to bulk it up. Serving it with a large salad instead of pasta will also help cut down on the calories. Every little helps, eh?