Breast Of Chicken Scala
Creamy chicken breasts in a rich sour cream and beef consomme sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese and broiled to perfection—an elegant dish perfect for special dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle chicken breasts evenly with flour.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Saute chicken until browned on both sides, about 15 minutes.
- Add undiluted beef consomme to the skillet; cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Stir in sour cream, salt, and pepper; simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove chicken to a heatproof serving dish.
- Stir the sauce in the pan to blend well.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken.
- Refrigerate overnight in the sauce if desired to improve flavor.
- Reheat before serving.
- Just before serving, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and broil for a minute or two until golden brown.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of sour cream and spices for a few hours before cooking. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. For an added depth of flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary onto the chicken while sautéing. Also, ensure the skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Scala over a bed of rice or alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a fulfilling meal. It pairs beautifully with Hash Browned Creamed Potatoes or a fresh side salad for a balanced dinner. Consider adding steamed vegetables or a light pasta dish to round out the meal. For a more casual setting, serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals, ensuring it doesn't dry out. For best results, reheat gently to preserve flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breast Of Chicken Scala contains roughly 164 calories, with 9g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 514mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
What can I substitute for beef consomme?
If you don't have beef consomme, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor profile. To add richness, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the broth.
Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?
While refrigerating overnight enhances the flavor, it's not mandatory. If you're short on time, you can serve it right after cooking. However, letting it sit in the sauce for a few hours can deepen the taste and tenderness of the chicken.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).