Savor the Flavor: Easy Lemon Chicken Scallopini
Introduction
Hey there! I'm thrilled you've joined me today because I've got something truly special to share - a dish that's near and dear to my heart, the Luscious Lemon Chicken Scallopini. It's become my go-to recipe for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence but compromising on flavor isn't an option. Combining the zesty punch of fresh lemon juice with the sumptuousness of a creamy sauce, this dish is a dance of flavors that will enchant your palate. Plus, it's so straightforward, making it utterly perfect for any night of the week.
Key Takeaways:
- Lemon Chicken Scallopini offers an easy yet flavorful option for dinner.
- The combination of lemon and a creamy sauce brings a delightful balance of freshness and richness to the dish.
- Perfect for busy weeknights, making gourmet dining at home effortlessly achievable.
Ingredients Overview
Stepping into the kitchen after a long day, there's nothing more comforting than knowing a delicious meal is just moments away from gracing your table. And with our Luscious Lemon Chicken Scallopini, those moments are filled with the simple, fresh flavors that only a handful of well-chosen ingredients can provide. Now, let's dive into what you'll need to bring this dish to life. First, you'll want to grab some boneless skinless chicken breasts, likely already waiting in your fridge or easily found at your local grocery store. You’ll season them with garlic powder and a generous sprinkle of salt and cracked pepper, ingredients so basic yet foundational to the rich flavor profile we're building.
To envelop our chicken in that irresistible golden coat, a touch of all-purpose flour is all it takes, again something you've probably got stashed in your pantry. The magic truly begins when we introduce the sauce's components: butter and olive oil for that silky base, minced garlic, and a medium-sized brown onion to layer in depth, both staples in any kitchen. Then, a blend of chicken broth (or stock) and light cooking cream comes together, creating a creamy sauce that's both comforting and luxurious.
A dash of lemon juice, a hint of light cream for that lush thickness, Italian mixed herbs for that aromatic whisper of the Mediterranean, and finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley to garnish, all contribute to a sauce so divine, you might just forget how easy it was to make. Every single one of these ingredients is not only easy to find but likely a staple in your weekly grocery list, making this dish a dream for those busy weeknights.
Preparing the Chicken Cutlets
There's something almost magical about transforming the humble chicken breast into something stunning, and it all starts with halving those pieces to create thin slices perfect for scallopini. I remember the first time I did this, standing in my kitchen with a sense of purpose. Grabbing the flat side of a meat mallet, I gently pounded them out into even thickness. Then, seasoning came into play.
A sprinkle of garlic powder, a touch of teaspoon salt, and a dash of black pepper breathed life into them. But it didn't stop there! The next step, dredging the chicken in all-purpose flour, was like wrapping a gift. This wasn't just about cooking; it was about crafting something with care and love, ensuring each piece was lightly coated and ready for the pan. This process is a testament to how simple ingredients, treated with a bit of love and thought, can create a meal that's not just food, but a story on your plate.
Cooking the Chicken to Perfection
Grab your large skillet and let's make some magic happen over medium-high heat. First off, I always emphasize using olive oil – it's like the secret handshake into the world of golden brown perfection. Now, let’s talk chicken cutlets. You want them thin for that ideal scallopini texture, but here’s a crucial bit: do not - and I mean, do not - overcrowd your pan. This is the moment where your chicken goes from just okay to absolutely luscious. Give each piece its own little space to bask in that heat, turning once to ensure both sides kiss that heat just right, achieving that golden brown allure we’re all after. It’s not just cooking; it's creating a masterpiece.
Creating the Luscious Lemon Sauce
After I've perfectly seared those thin chicken breasts, setting them aside and shifting focus to what I like to call the heart of the dish: the luscious lemon sauce. Right in that same large skillet, over the same loving medium heat, I pour in the chicken stock, letting it catch all those golden brown bits left from the chicken – they're full of flavor, you know. A gentle pour of cream joins the mix, blending with the chicken broth, and here’s where the magic happens. I squeeze in that fresh lemon juice, its zest cutting through the richness, creating a creamy lemon caper sauce that’s just divine.
This lemon sauce isn’t just a sauce; it’s a hug from me to the plate of chicken cutlets, promising each bite will be as comforting as the last. For me, it’s more than just cooking; it’s about turning simple ingredients like lemon slices, cream, and a good chicken stock into a creamy sauce that envelops each piece of chicken in a way that whispers, "you're in for a treat." And let’s not forget, the real butter I slide in right at the end, because, in my kitchen, love is butter, and plenty of it.
Tips and Tools I use for this recipe
Check out my kitchen essentials, where you'll find my favorite kitchen tools, spices and more!
- Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. If you're unsure, remember that chicken is safe to eat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, as checked with a meat thermometer.
- I use this cast iron skillet, and I quickly mince the garlic with a single squeeze of a garlic press.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this Luscious Lemon Chicken Scallopini opens up a world of delightful options for you.
- Angel hair pasta: Twirl some angel hair pasta on your fork with a piece of this lemony chicken for a classic experience.
- Steamed vegetables: Keep it light and nutritious by pairing it with a side of vibrantly steamed vegetables.
- Zucchini noodles: For those of you embracing a low carb lifestyle, zucchini noodles are a splendid alternative that beautifully complements the creamy lemon sauce.
Whichever way you choose to serve it, this dish is bound to become a new favorite for busy weeknights.
Storage Tips
After enjoying a delightful meal of lemon chicken scallopini, you might find yourself with leftovers. Here’s a tip that has become a favorite thing in my kitchen: store the leftover chicken scallopini in an airtight container. This simple step keeps the chicken moist and the sauce flavorful, ready to be relished next time you crave a quick yet delicious meal. Ah, and here's an essential nugget of wisdom from my own experience – your luscious lemon butter sauce chicken can safely hibernate in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s like making sure your future self has a ticket to flavor town without the extra effort. Isn't that a marvelous thought?
Final Touches and Variations
Now that we’ve savored the sheer delight of this lemon chicken scallopini, it’s time to play around with those final touches that make a dish uniquely yours. Imagine sprinkling briny capers over the top for that salty pop, or nestling tender artichoke hearts into the sauce for a heartier bite. Both add not just layers of flavor but lovely texture contrasts that elevate the dish.
I’m all for sticking to a recipe, but there's something so rewarding about putting your own twist on a classic dish. Whether it’s a sprinkle of fresh herbs you picked from your garden or a dash of that special ingredient only you know about, these personal touches make the kitchen such a magical place. So, next time you're whipping up this lemony wonder, ask yourself: what’s my signature twist going to be?
Lemon Chicken Magic on Your Table
Who knew that bringing such a delicious meal to your table could be wrapped up in the simplicity and elegance of a Lemon Chicken Scallopini? It's not just any weeknight meal; it’s a journey into the heart of Italian cuisine, simplified for your kitchen. We've danced through the steps together, from the gentle pounding of the thin chicken breasts to the golden-brown sear achieved in a sizzling large skillet. Each piece of chicken, once just a simple boneless skinless chicken breast, transforms under a sprinkle of flour, a dash of olive oil, and the zest of lemon.
But what truly elevates this dish is the luscious lemon butter sauce, a concoction that marries the robust flavors of chicken stock and cream with the invigorating twist of lemon juice and capers, casting a spell of sophisticated taste over the tenderly cooked chicken. Paired with the versatility of serving options – be it atop angel hair pasta, nestled with steamed vegetables, or alongside zucchini noodles – this recipe whispers the promise of a new favorite in your recipe collection.
So, treat yourself and your loved ones to this marvel of a weeknight wonder. Let the Lemon Chicken Scallopini grace your table, light up your evenings, and perhaps, find a permanent spot in your repertoire of favorite chicken dinners. Believe me, the magic of a simple yet flavorful recipe like this is all in the making, and it's waiting for you to give it a try.
Ingredients
- For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts large cut in half horizontally to make 4
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch cracked pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 tablespoons flour all purpose
- For The Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 teaspoons oil
- 1 medium sized brown onion
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1¼ cup chicken broth stock
- ⅔ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch cornflour mixed with 1 tablespoon of water
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian mixed herbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- slices or wedges to serve
Instructions
- Begin by seasoning the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon over each fillet, making sure to rub it in.
- (Optional step): Place the flour in a shallow dish and lightly coat each fillet, shaking off any excess flour, and set them aside.
- In a large skillet or non-stick pan, melt the butter and heat the oil over medium-high heat until the butter has fully melted and the pan is hot.
- Cook the chicken until it is golden brown on both sides and thoroughly cooked through, which should take about 4-5 minutes per side depending on the thickness.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a warm plate.
- Add the onion and garlic to the same pan and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. Lower the heat to low-medium, pour in the broth, and season with salt and pepper.
- Allow the broth to reduce slightly, which should take about 6 minutes.
- Stir in the cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken for approximately 5 minutes. If the sauce is too thin, you can mix in a cornstarch and water mixture, stirring quickly to thicken it immediately.
- Pour in the remaining lemon juice and let it simmer gently for another minute to blend the flavors. Stir in the Italian herbs, then return the chicken to the pan, ensuring it is well-coated with the sauce.
- Serve over rice, pasta, steamed vegetables, or zucchini noodles, and garnish with lemon slices or wedges and parsley.
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