Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce

If you’re craving a dish that is both elegant and easy to whip up, this Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce recipe is just the ticket. Tender, thinly sliced chicken breasts are pan-seared to golden perfection, then smothered in a bright, silky lemon butter sauce that perfectly balances richness with a refreshing citrus zing. It’s a flavorful, impressive meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without tons of fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Bright and Flavorful: The lemon butter sauce adds a refreshing, tangy richness that elevates simple chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Works well with a variety of sides, from pasta to roasted veggies, suiting any meal preference.
• Elegant Presentation: Feels fancy enough for special occasions but simple enough for everyday dining.
• Family-Friendly: Mild, comforting flavors that everyone can enjoy, including picky eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce recipe relies on straightforward, wholesome ingredients that blend seamlessly to create a balanced dish. Each component contributes texture, flavor, or brightness, making the recipe approachable without compromising on taste.

• Chicken breasts: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tender bites.
• Flour: For lightly coating the chicken, helping to create a perfect golden crust.
• Butter: Essential in both cooking and forming the luscious lemon butter sauce base.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and savory notes to the sauce.
• Lemon juice and zest: Provide vibrant citrus brightness that balances the richness.
• Chicken broth or white wine: Builds flavor and adds moisture to the pan sauce.
• Fresh parsley: For color and a fresh herbal lift in the finished dish.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning essentials to enhance every ingredient.

Variations for Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand, dietary restrictions, or your personal flavor preferences—making it a flexible favorite in any kitchen.

• Use veal or turkey: Substitute chicken with veal scallopini or turkey cutlets for a different protein experience.
• Add capers: Stir in briny capers for an extra layer of tangy complexity in the sauce.
• Gluten-free option: Swap wheat flour for almond flour or a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Herb variations: Experiment with thyme, basil, or tarragon for unique herbaceous flavors.
• Boost with veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to make it a heartier meal.

How to Make Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by gently pounding the chicken breasts to an even thinness, about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures the meat cooks evenly and stays tender. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper, then dredge the slices in flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the floured chicken slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute—don’t let it burn! Pour in chicken broth or white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer and reduce slightly, then stir in fresh lemon juice and zest.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Plate

Swirl in more butter to enrich the sauce and give it a velvety texture. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the lemon butter sauce over each piece to coat thoroughly. Garnish with chopped parsley right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce

• Thin and even chicken slices: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to achieve uniform thickness; this avoids overcooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to maintain a golden crust without steaming.
• Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice can taste harsh; fresh juice brightens the sauce beautifully.
• Keeps warm tented chicken: Use foil tenting to keep chicken moist without drying while making the sauce.
• Deglaze the pan thoroughly: Scrape every browned bit from the skillet for that rich, flavorful sauce base.
• Finish with cold butter: Stir in cold butter at the end to get a creamy, glossy sauce without separating.

How to Serve Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce

Garnishes

Finish the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of vibrant green and a fresh herbal note that complements the lemony sauce. Thin lemon slices or twists also make a lovely, decorative touch and enhance the citrus aroma.

Side Dishes

This Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce shines alongside simple sides such as garlic mashed potatoes, buttery pasta like angel hair or fettuccine, or crisp roasted vegetables. A light salad with vinaigrette also balances the richness of the butter sauce perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try plating over a bed of creamy risotto or lemon-infused quinoa to soak up all those delicious flavors. For a lighter option, serve the chicken on a nest of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles, garnished simply for an elegant finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store the chicken and sauce together to maintain flavors and moisture.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well if stored properly in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, making sure to cool completely before freezing to avoid sogginess.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power to avoid drying out the tender chicken and breaking the sauce. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating helps keep the sauce smooth and luscious.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor, but be sure to pound them thin for even cooking.

Is Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use flour for dredging, but you can easily replace it with gluten-free flour or cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free.

What can I use instead of white wine in the sauce?

If you prefer not to use wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute that still adds depth and moisture to the lemon butter sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Stir in cold butter at the end and avoid high heat once the butter is added to keep the sauce emulsified and creamy.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine or olive oil and ensure the broth is free from dairy products.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Scallopini with Lemon Butter Sauce is truly a go-to recipe when you want something that feels special but is completely manageable in your busy schedule. The fresh lemony sauce combined with tender chicken lets you enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home, perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite easy dinner classic!

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