These Grilled Chicken Scallops with Lemon Sauce are light, flavorful, and perfectly tangy, thanks to a bright lemon-garlic sauce. Quick to make and beautifully presented, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken scallops (thinly sliced chicken breasts)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Season the chicken scallops with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Prepare the Lemon Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Mix well until the sauce is smooth and all ingredients are combined.
3. Make the Sauce in the Skillet:
- Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and let it simmer for 2 minutes, stirring regularly to blend the flavors and thicken slightly.
4. Finish the Dish:
- Return the cooked chicken scallops to the skillet, coating them with the sauce. Let cook for an additional 1 minute to absorb the flavors.
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Scallops
- Pound Chicken Thinly: If the chicken breasts aren’t already thin, pound them gently to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Lemon for Taste: If you prefer a milder lemon flavor, use the juice of 1 lemon and taste before adding more.
- Deglaze for Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan before making the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Grilled Chicken Scallops with Lemon Sauce recipe is quick to make, deliciously light, and full of vibrant flavors. The bright lemon-garlic sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, and the dish is versatile enough for any occasion. Serve with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a balanced and satisfying meal!
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are chicken scallops?
- Chicken scallops are thinly sliced pieces of chicken breast, often pounded thin for even cooking.
2. Can I make this dish with chicken thighs instead?
- Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well, though cooking times may vary slightly based on thickness.
3. How can I make the sauce thicker?
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water to the sauce and simmer until thickened.
4. What sides go well with this dish?
- This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Pasta is also a great choice to soak up the lemon sauce.
5. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
- Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the lemon sauce for up to an hour before cooking to intensify the flavor, but make the sauce fresh for the best taste.
Conclusion
These Grilled Chicken Scallops with Lemon Sauce are a delightful, quick-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. With the tangy lemon-garlic sauce and tender chicken, it’s a meal that feels both light and satisfying. Serve it hot, topped with parsley, and enjoy a burst of freshness with every bite!