Ingredients:
- 4 thinly sliced chicken breast fillets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Step 1: Pound the Chicken
Place each chicken breast fillet between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound them gently with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This tenderizes the meat and ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Season and Dredge the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken fillets with salt and pepper. Place the flour in a shallow dish and dredge each fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess. This will give the chicken a nice coating and help thicken the sauce later on.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and the pan is hot, add the chicken fillets. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Sauce
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. Then, pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth. Stir well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce and thicken slightly.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the lemon sauce. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together. Sprinkle the lemon zest over the top for an extra burst of citrusy goodness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Lemon Scaloppine to a serving platter. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness if desired. This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a side of pasta. Serve hot and enjoy the tantalizing flavors of this classic Italian favorite!
Now that you have mastered the art of cooking Lemon Scaloppine, impress your family and friends with this delightful dish. They’ll be asking for seconds in no time. Buon appetito!