Easy Chicken Scallopini Recipe
Easy Chicken Scallopini Recipe (Creamy, One-Pan & Ready in 30 Minutes)
If you’re craving a restaurant-quality chicken dinner that’s fast, comforting, and full of flavor, this Easy Chicken Scallopini Recipe is exactly what you need. Known for its thin, pan-seared chicken cutlets and silky sauce, chicken scallopini is a classic Italian-inspired dish that feels elegant yet comes together effortlessly at home. Made in just one skillet and ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. The creamy mushroom sauce, bright lemon zest, and fresh herbs strike the perfect balance between rich and refreshing. If you enjoy quick but impressive chicken dinners, you may also love Brie Stuffed Chicken Breast.
What Is Chicken Scallopini?
Chicken scallopini refers to thinly sliced or pounded chicken breasts that are lightly dredged in flour and quickly cooked in a hot skillet. The word scallopini describes the thin cut of meat, not the sauce itself. This technique ensures fast cooking, tender texture, and a golden, slightly crispy exterior. The sauce varies by recipe, but creamy mushroom and lemon versions are among the most popular because they enhance the chicken without overpowering it.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Scallopini Recipe
This recipe stands out because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It uses simple pantry ingredients, requires no special equipment, and keeps cleanup easy with just one pan. The chicken stays juicy, the mushrooms add earthy depth, and the lemon keeps everything light and fresh. It’s comforting without being heavy, making it a dish the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients Explained (Why Each One Matters)
Chicken Breasts
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook quickly when pounded thin. This ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
Flour, Salt & Black Pepper
- A light flour coating creates a delicate crust that helps the sauce cling to the chicken. Proper seasoning enhances flavor at every layer.
Olive Oil & Butter
- Olive oil is used for searing the chicken, while butter builds richness and depth in the sauce. Together, they create a balanced base.
Mushrooms & Shallots
- Cremini mushrooms add an earthy, savory note, while shallots bring mild sweetness without overpowering the sauce.
Chicken Broth
- This deglazes the pan, lifting all the flavorful browned bits and creating a savory backbone for the sauce.
Heavy Cream
- Cream gives the sauce its signature velvety texture, making it luxurious without being overly thick.
Lemon Zest & Parsley
- Lemon zest brightens the dish, cutting through the richness, while fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
Easy Chicken Scallopini Recipe
Notes
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 oz each)
- 1 1/4 tsp kosher salt, divided
- 1 tsp black pepper, divided
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, plus 1 tsp (divided)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms (or any preferred mushroom variety)
- 1/2 cup sliced shallots (about 2 shallots)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp grated lemon zest (from 1 lemon), plus extra for garnish
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally and gently pound to about ½-inch thickness. This step is crucial for quick, even cooking and tender results.
- Season both sides generously, then lightly coat the chicken in flour. Shake off excess flour to avoid a heavy coating.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides. Remove and keep warm this prevents overcooking while the sauce is prepared.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté mushrooms and shallots until browned. This step develops deep flavor and aroma.
- Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms, then add chicken broth to thicken slightly. Stir in cream, parsley, and lemon zest, creating a smooth, glossy sauce.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the cutlets. Garnish with extra lemon zest and serve immediately.
- Chicken scallopini pairs beautifully with pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. A simple green salad or steamed asparagus balances the richness, while crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and provide extra juiciness. Just adjust cooking time slightly.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works perfectly. In a pinch, water with a small splash of soy sauce can add depth.
Can I make the sauce without cream?
Absolutely. A cornstarch slurry can thicken the sauce while keeping it dairy-free.
Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?
You can pound and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, saving time on busy days.
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Scallopini Recipe proves that you don’t need complicated steps or fancy ingredients to create a dish that feels special. With tender chicken, a creamy mushroom sauce, and a bright lemon finish, it’s a reliable go-to for weeknight dinners and entertaining alike. Simple, elegant, and endlessly satisfying, this is one recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
