There is nothing quite as comforting and elegant as the bright, buttery flavors of the Lemon Butter Chicken Scallopini Recipe. This dish shines with tender, perfectly pounded chicken cutlets simmered in a luscious lemon-butter sauce that’s enriched with a splash of white wine or chicken broth, offering just the right balance of tang and richness. Every bite melts in your mouth and is beautifully accented by the fresh pop of parsley and a hint of garlic, making it a weeknight winner or a weekend treat. If you’re looking for a recipe that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to prepare, this Lemon Butter Chicken Scallopini Recipe will quickly become your go-to for an impressive and flavorful meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients simple and accessible is what makes this recipe truly special. Each item brings its own magic: from tender chicken breasts to the fresh brightness of lemon juice, and the smooth richness of butter that ties everything together perfectly.
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise): This creates thinner cutlets that cook quickly and evenly, providing the perfect base for the sauce.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle but delicious depth without overpowering the dish.
- Flour (for dredging): Helps create a delicate crust that thickens the sauce slightly and gives the chicken a gentle golden color.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a perfectly hot skillet and a lovely flavor foundation when cooking the chicken.
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided): The heart of this recipe, adding richness and silky texture to the sauce.
- 3/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth: Creates a bright acidity and balances the richness of the butter while deglazing the pan for incredible flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brings that signature zing that elevates the entire dish and keeps it fresh.
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped): Adds a fresh, herbal note and a touch of color for visual appeal.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste): For an extra layer of savory, cheesy goodness, perfect for sprinkling on top before serving.
How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Scallopini Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Pound the Chicken
Start by slicing the large chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets. Placing them between two pieces of plastic wrap, use the flat side of a meat mallet to gently pound them until they are about half an inch thick. This step ensures quick, even cooking and keeps the chicken tender and juicy.
Step 2: Season and Coat
Generously season both sides of each chicken cutlet with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. This coating helps develop a delicate crust that adds texture and flavor while also thickening the sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. When the pan is hot and shimmering, add two pieces of chicken to the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through. For the second batch, add another tablespoon of butter to keep things luscious. This batch might cook a little quicker since the skillet will be very hot. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a plate and loosely cover it with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
To the same skillet, pour in your choice of dry white wine or chicken broth along with the lemon juice. Let the liquid simmer and bubble until it reduces by half, concentrating the bright and tangy flavors. Turn off the heat and then whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until the sauce is velvety and smooth—this is where the magic truly happens.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked chicken pieces back into the pan, spooning the sauce generously over each cutlet. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a burst of color and freshness. For an optional finishing touch, grate parmesan cheese over the chicken to add a savory note that perfectly complements the lemony butter sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy every luxurious bite.
How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken Scallopini Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic and essential garnish that adds a fresh herbal complexity and vibrant color contrast. A little grated parmesan cheese elevates the dish to an indulgent level, adding a salty, nutty finish. Lemon wedges on the side let you add an extra citrus bite at the table for brightening the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs incredibly well with simple yet flavorful sides. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery pasta to soak up the luscious lemon butter sauce. Steamed asparagus, green beans, or a crisp garden salad provide a fresh, crisp balance that complements every bite perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of elegance, plate the chicken cutlets slightly overlapping and drizzle the buttery sauce generously over the top. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and a thin lemon slice for a restaurant-quality presentation. You can also serve it over a bed of delicate angel hair pasta for an impressive main course that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Lemon Butter Chicken Scallopini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to pour some of the sauce over the chicken before sealing to keep it moist and flavorful.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, it’s best to place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container separately from any sides. When properly stored, the chicken will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for extended periods as it can dry out the chicken. Stir frequently and heat until warmed through to preserve tenderness and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful alternative. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness and adjust cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute that adds rich flavor without the alcohol. A splash of white grape juice with a little vinegar can also mimic the acidity of wine.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken thin?
Pounding the chicken cutlets ensures even cooking and tenderness. Thin pieces cook quickly without drying out and help achieve that classic scallopini texture.
Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour or almond flour for dredging, and double-check that your broth or wine is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
The sauce naturally thickens as the wine or broth reduces and butter melts in. If you want it thicker, let the sauce simmer a little longer before adding the butter or whisk in a small slurry of flour and water before finishing.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Butter Chicken Scallopini Recipe is truly a treasure that combines ease, elegance, and incredible flavor in one plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, the bright citrus notes and silky sauce make every bite a delight. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the genuine joy that comes from creating a dish this delicious and beautiful in your own kitchen.
Print
Lemon Butter Chicken Scallopini Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Lemon Butter Chicken Scallopini is a quick and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken cutlets cooked in a rich lemon butter sauce with a hint of garlic and white wine. This easy skillet recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy and buttery flavors, garnished with fresh parsley and optional parmesan cheese for a delicious family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Flour (for dredging)
Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 3/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets. Place the chicken pieces between two pieces of plastic wrap, spacing them apart, and pound with the flat side of a meat mallet until they are about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season and dredge: Season both sides of each chicken piece with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then coat each piece evenly with flour, shaking off any excess.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Once hot, cook the chicken in two batches, about 4 minutes on the first side and 2-3 minutes on the second side, until cooked through. Add an additional tablespoon of butter when cooking the second batch to keep the pan hot. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Let the mixture bubble and reduce by half, then turn off the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and, if desired, freshly grated parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic option, substitute white wine with chicken broth as mentioned.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to ensure even thickness for even cooking.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory touch.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
