Chicken Scallopini: A Culinary Delight

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Chicken Scallopini, a dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious lemon-butter sauce. This classic Italian recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. With its vibrant flavors and delightful textures, Chicken Scallopini will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Equipment Needed:

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Meat mallet
• Shallow bowls
• Large skillet
• Tongs
• Wooden spoon
• Aluminum foil
• Serving platter

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Cover with plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up Breading Station:
   • Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. Place the breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl.
3. Bread the Chicken:
   • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
4. Cook the Chicken:
   • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.
5. Make the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6. Add Lemon and Capers:
   • Stir in the lemon juice and capers. Let the sauce simmer until slightly reduced, about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Combine and Serve:
   • Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.

Serving Suggestions:

This Chicken Scallopini pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or a light angel hair pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic. For a burst of color and a healthy touch, a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or steamed asparagus with a drizzle of balsamic reduction would complement the dish perfectly.

Cooking Chicken Scallopini is a delightful experience, filled with the rich aromas of garlic and lemon. The process is straightforward, yet the result is a dish that exudes elegance and comfort. Your family will appreciate the effort and savor every bite, making this recipe a staple for special occasions and everyday meals alike. Enjoy the joy of cooking and the pleasure of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.