Looking for a restaurant-quality dish you can make at home? Look no further than chicken scallopini Macaroni Grill style. This dish, often featured on the Macaroni Grill menu with pictures that make you drool, is perfect for special occasions or a hearty family meal. In this article, I’ll walk you through every step of making macaroni grill chicken scallopini, from choosing your cooking equipment to serving the perfect plate.
What Meal or Occasion is This Dish For?
Chicken scallopini Macaroni Grill is a versatile dish that fits well for both casual dinners and formal gatherings. With its rich, lemon butter sauce and succulent chicken, it can be a show-stopper at a holiday dinner or an impressive dish for a date night at home.
Recommended Cooking Equipment and Usage
For this dish, a gas grill or a stovetop skillet can be used for cooking the chicken. If you’re using a gas grill, it’s best for achieving that slightly smoky, grilled texture. Ensure the gas grill is well-oiled and preheated before you start. For those who prefer stovetop cooking, a non-stick skillet or saute pan will do just fine.
- Gas Grill: Preheat to a medium-high temperature, oil the grill to avoid sticking. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Skillet/Saute Pan: Use a bit of oil, set to medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
Macaroni Grill Chicken Scallopini Recipe
Macaroni Grill Chicken Scallopini
Chicken Scallopini Macaroni Grill is a dish that embodies comfort and elegance in every bite. The creamy lemon butter sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, while the artichoke hearts and capers add a touch of sophistication. It's the kind of meal that turns an ordinary dinner into a special occasion, making you feel like you're dining at Macaroni Grill without leaving your home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cappellini pasta
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, quartered
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 1 cup flour, seasoned with salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Garnish with parsley
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your gas grill or skillet. Cook pasta and drain, set aside.
- Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Coat them in seasoned flour.
- Cook Chicken: If using a gas grill, preheat to medium-high and grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. If using a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat and sauté chicken for 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter, mushrooms, and artichoke hearts. Sauté until mushrooms are soft. Add white wine, heavy cream, lemon juice, and capers. Cook until sauce thickens.
- Combine: Add cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the chicken on top of the cooked cappellini pasta. Pour sauce over. Garnish with parsley.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 600Total Fat: 35gCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35g
Serving Suggestions and Suitable Side Dishes:
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
- For a more decadent meal, consider serving it with garlic bread.
Useful Cooking Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Make sure to cook the chicken just until it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper, especially when seasoning the flour.
- Watch Your Sauce: If your sauce is too runny, you can thicken it by simmering it longer or adding a little bit of flour. If it’s too thick, add a bit more cream or wine to loosen it.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh mushrooms and artichoke hearts can make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Choose Your Oil Wisely: When using a gas grill, use an oil with a high smoke point like canola or avocado oil to prevent burning.
Conclusion: Chicken Scallopini Macaroni Grill
Chicken scallopini Macaroni Grill style is an exquisite dish that can wow any crowd. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or a special occasion, this recipe has all the elements to make it a big hit: creamy lemon butter sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta. Follow the cooking tips and avoid common mistakes for a fool-proof meal. Buon Appetito!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is chicken scallopini made of?
Chicken scallopini usually consists of thinly-sliced chicken breasts that are dredged in seasoned flour and sautéed. The chicken is often served with a rich sauce, like lemon butter or white wine, and sometimes includes capers, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts.
Is chicken scallopini French?
No, chicken scallopini is not French; it’s Italian-American. The dish takes inspiration from Italian cooking techniques and ingredients but has become popular in various cuisines, including American.
What is the difference between chicken scallopini and chicken piccata?
Both dishes involve thin chicken cutlets, but the primary difference lies in the sauce. Chicken piccata typically has a sauce made from lemon juice, capers, and butter, while chicken scallopini can have a more varied range of sauces, like white wine or heavy cream.
What does scallopini mean in Italian?
In Italian, “scaloppine” refers to thinly sliced meat, usually veal, pork, or chicken, that is dredged in flour and sautéed. The term derives from the Italian word “scaloppa,” meaning a small scallop or thinly-sliced meat.
Can I substitute the white wine?
Yes, you can substitute the white wine with chicken broth if you’re looking to avoid alcohol. Some people also use apple cider vinegar for a tangy alternative, but use it sparingly.
Is it necessary to use cappellini pasta?
No, it’s not mandatory to use cappellini pasta. You can use other types of pasta like spaghetti, linguine, or even fettuccine. The choice of pasta can be tailored to your personal preference.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and using a dairy-free cream instead of heavy cream. The taste may vary slightly but it’s still delicious.
What are good side dishes for chicken scallopini?
As mentioned earlier, chicken scallopini pairs well with green salad or steamed veggies. Garlic bread or roasted potatoes can also make excellent side dishes for a more hearty meal.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
You can use pre-cooked chicken, but it won’t absorb the sauce as well as freshly cooked chicken would. Plus, sautéing or grilling fresh chicken adds depth to the dish, making it more flavorful.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the dish is best enjoyed fresh to fully appreciate the flavors and textures.
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.