When it comes to satisfying weeknight dinners, few dishes can match the charm of Chicken Scallopini. I first came across this easy Italian classic while searching for meals that could impress guests without causing a kitchen meltdown. The moment the chicken hits the pan, it begins to transform into golden, crispy cutlets, and as the creamy mushroom sauce simmers beside it, the scent envelops the kitchen, making my mouth water.
This quick and easy Chicken Scallopini is a game-changer, whipping up in just 30 minutes with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. It brings together tender chicken coated in a luscious mushroom sauce, brightened by zesty lemon notes. Ideal for those evenings when fast food is just too easy—or too mundane—this one-pan wonder makes for a wonderful meal that’s sure to please family and friends alike. Let’s dive into the ingredients and create a dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why is Best Chicken Scallopini a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its Best: This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, taking only 30 minutes to prepare.
Rich, Creamy Sauce: The luscious mushroom sauce pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken, creating an irresistibly satisfying dish.
One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup required, this meal makes weeknight cooking a breeze.
Crowd-Pleasing Perfection: Impress family and friends with a home-cooked dinner that tastes gourmet without the hassle.
Versatile and Delicious: Pair it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for an unforgettable meal or explore other options for simple sides! If you love flavorful, easy dishes, check out my easy weeknight dinner ideas for more inspiration.
Best Chicken Scallopini Ingredients
Get ready to cook up a delightful dish that’s sure to impress!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2, 8 oz each) – Main protein element. Substitute with chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness.
• Kosher Salt (1¼ tsp, divided) – Enhances flavor. Adjust amount based on personal salt preference.
• Black Pepper (1 tsp, divided) – Adds a mild heat. Freshly ground is recommended for better flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour (½ cup + 1 tsp for sauce) – Creates a crispy coating on chicken and thickens the sauce. Can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – Used for frying; provides healthy fats. Can swap with canola oil for a neutral flavor.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter (4 tbsp) – Creates depth in sauce and enhances richness. Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
• Sliced Cremini Mushrooms (8 oz) – Base of the sauce, adding earthy flavor. Substitute with white button mushrooms or wild mushrooms for variety.
• Shallots (2, sliced – about ½ cup) – Provides subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor. Use onion in a pinch.
• Heavy Whipping Cream (½ cup) – Gives the sauce a creamy texture. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version but reduce richness.
• Chopped Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley (2 tbsp) – Garnish and brightens up the dish with fresh flavor. Substitute with fresh thyme if desired.
• Grated Lemon Zest (½ tsp + extra for garnish) – Adds freshness and balances the richness. Use orange zest for an alternative flavor twist.
How to Make Best Chicken Scallopini
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Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets. Then, gently pound them to about ½ inch thick; this ensures even cooking and a tender bite.
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Season & Coat: Generously season the chicken with ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Dredge in all-purpose flour, making sure each piece is evenly coated for a crispy texture.
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Cook Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken cutlets for approximately 4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
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Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms, shallots, remaining salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until everything is beautifully browned.
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Finish Sauce: Stir in 1 teaspoon of flour and cook for 1 minute. Then, gradually add ½ cup of heavy whipping cream, along with parsley and lemon zest. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
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Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is fully coated in the creamy mushroom sauce. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest for a fresh touch!
Optional: Serve over pasta for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Best Chicken Scallopini
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed to thin the sauce.
- Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: When reheating, do so over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Stir in a little broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
- Airtight Storage: Always ensure the container is properly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn for your best Chicken Scallopini.
Make Ahead Options
These Best Chicken Scallopini are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice and pound the chicken and season with salt and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. The creamy mushroom sauce can be made ahead as well; prepare it and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over low heat, adding a touch of heavy cream to restore its richness, then cook the chicken until golden. This way, you achieve delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort on busy evenings!
Best Chicken Scallopini Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and textures to make this recipe your own!
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Chicken Thighs: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful dish that stays moist.
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Mushroom Medley: Swap cremini for a variety of mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for an earthy flavor boost and delightful texture.
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Herb Twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic depth that elevates the overall dish beautifully.
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Citrus Burst: Incorporate orange zest instead of lemon for a sweet citrus twist that adds a unique flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that perks up the entire creamy sauce.
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use cornstarch to thicken the sauce without losing its creaminess.
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Creamy Alternative: For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, giving it a tropical flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
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Nutty Finish: Top with toasted pine nuts before serving for an added crunch and rich nutty flavor that complements the entire dish.
What to Serve with Best Chicken Scallopini?
Elevate your delicious Chicken Scallopini with these delightful sides that will perfectly complement its creamy sauce and savory flavors.
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Lemon Herb Rice: The zesty flavor of lemon-infused rice enhances the bright notes of the dish, balancing the richness of the sauce. This fragrant pairing is perfect for soaking up every delicious drop.
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Garlic Bread: A warm, crispy garlic bread is a must-have! It adds texture and makes a wonderful vehicle for enjoying the sauce. It’s an irresistible combination that truly satisfies the soul.
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Steamed Asparagus: Serve with lightly steamed asparagus for a colorful and nutritious side. Its crunch and fresh flavor provide a lovely contrast to the creamy scallopini.
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a tangy dressing makes for a fresh and crisp counterpart. Each bite adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tenderness of the scallopini.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These nutty, caramelized sprouts bring an earthy flavor that complements the dish, enhancing its overall richness. They offer a delightful texture that most guests will appreciate.
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Chardonnay: Pairing this dish with a chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the dining experience. Its crisp acidity and subtle fruitiness brightens up the entire meal, making every bite more enjoyable.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse provides a sweet finish that lingers deliciously. Its creamy texture resonates with the rich elements of your main dish, making for a memorable end to the meal.
Expert Tips for Best Chicken Scallopini
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Pound Evenly: Ensure chicken cutlets are pounded uniformly to allow for even cooking, resulting in a tender texture without overcooking the edges.
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Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain the crispiness of the chicken cutlets.
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Gradual Cream Addition: When adding heavy cream to the sauce, insert it gradually while stirring. This helps maintain a smooth, creamy texture without clumping.
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Monitor Sauce Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or more cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.
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Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of extra lemon zest before serving brightens the dish, complementing the richness of the sauce while enhancing the overall flavor of this best Chicken Scallopini.
Best Chicken Scallopini Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are firm and pale pink, avoiding any with dark spots or a slimy texture. If you’re up for trying something slightly different, consider using chicken thighs, which provide a bit more flavor and juiciness.
How should I store leftovers of this chicken scallopini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing it up, as this helps maintain freshness. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to keep the sauce smooth.
Can I freeze chicken scallopini?
Yes! You can freeze the chicken scallopini in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For optimal results, cool the dish completely, then transfer it to the container, ensuring it’s sealed well to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and gently warm it on low heat with a bit of added cream for creaminess.
What if my sauce is too thick after reheating?
If your creamy mushroom sauce thickens too much upon reheating, not to worry! Simply add a little bit of chicken broth or heavy cream gradually while stirring over low heat. This will bring the sauce back to a lovely, pourable consistency while enhancing its richness.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Very! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the chicken coating and sauce thickening. Just be sure to check the blend’s specifications, as some may behave differently when cooked. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious Chicken Scallopini without dietary worries.
Do you have any tips for ensuring the chicken remains crispy?
For the crispiest chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet during cooking—this helps maintain that crunchy texture. Additionally, ensure you use fresh flour for dredging and let the chicken rest briefly on a cooling rack after cooking. This will help keep the coating intact while keeping the chicken juicy inside!
Savory Best Chicken Scallopini in 30 Minutes Flat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets, gently pound them to about ½ inch thick.
- Season & Coat: Generously season the chicken with ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, then dredge in all-purpose flour.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chicken for approximately 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, add sliced mushrooms, shallots, remaining salt, and pepper; sauté for 5-6 minutes.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in 1 teaspoon of flour, gradually add ½ cup of heavy cream, along with parsley and lemon zest; stir until smooth.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy mushroom sauce.