Chicken Scallopini
Chicken Scallopini offers tender, breaded chicken fillets with a flavorful lemon and basil crust, perfect for a quick, elegant meal. The crispy coating and bright citrus notes make it a versatile dish suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions. Pairs well with spaghetti in red sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put butter in a medium bowl; beat in lemon juice and egg with a fork.
- In another bowl, mix bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
- Dip chicken slices into the egg mixture; coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- In a large frying pan, melt 2 teaspoons of butter.
- Cook chicken over low heat, turning once, until done.
- Serve with spaghetti in a red sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional Italian dry bread crumbs. Fresh herbs like oregano can also enhance the flavor. If you prefer a tangier taste, you can add a bit more lemon juice to the egg mixture. Be sure to cook the chicken on low heat to prevent burning while ensuring it cooks through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Scallopini over a bed of spaghetti in a red sauce for a classic pairing. A side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements this dish beautifully. For a different twist, try serving it alongside Rissotto With Porcini Mushrooms for a rich and satisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain its crispy coating. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Scallopini contains roughly 211 calories, with 11g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2164mg per serving (94% 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 chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may need a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for Parmesan cheese, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both will add a similar salty flavor to your dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken up to the cooking step and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. Just cook it fresh when you're ready to serve to ensure it remains crispy.
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).