Name: Chicken Scallopini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed; Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons flour; 1–2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon salted butter; 1 small yellow onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet brown gravy mix (.87 oz.); 1 cup cold water; 8 oz. tomato sauce; 1 cup chicken broth; 3/4 lb. thin spaghetti; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp dried parsley; 1/2 tsp mustard powder; 1/4 tsp salt; Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something both comforting and quick. The chicken is seared to golden perfection, and the savory tomato-gravy sauce, with its rich depth of flavor, coats the pasta beautifully. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and the whole family will love it. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, meaning minimal cleanup!

ingredients

2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 tablespoons flour
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salted butter
1 small yellow onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet brown gravy mix (.87 oz.)
1 cup cold water
8 oz. tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth
3/4 lb. thin spaghetti

Seasonings:
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp mustard powder
1/4 tsp salt
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

Prepare the sauce: In a measuring cup, whisk together the brown gravy mix with 1 cup cold water until smooth. Stir in the tomato sauce and seasonings, then set aside.
Cook the chicken: Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then toss with flour to coat. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet and sear the chicken for 6–7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Deglaze and sauté onions: Turn off heat, pour in 1/4 cup chicken broth, and scrape up browned bits from the skillet. Turn heat back on to medium, add butter and sliced onions, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring often until caramelized.
Build the sauce: Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the remaining chicken broth and simmer for 5 minutes. Pour in the gravy-tomato mixture and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet.
Boil pasta: Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente, drain, and toss with the sauce.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot, optionally with garlic bread.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Substitute chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Swap thin spaghetti with fettuccine or linguine for a different pasta texture.
Use low-sodium chicken broth and gravy mix to reduce sodium.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Chicken Scallopini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

What can I substitute for brown gravy mix?

You can use a homemade gravy made from butter, flour, and chicken broth if you prefer a fresh sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and provide a slightly richer flavor and juicier texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and chicken in advance, then assemble and cook the pasta just before serving.

Can I freeze Chicken Scallopini?

Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce.

Can I use gluten-free flour and pasta?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added while sautéing the onions.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use olive oil instead of butter, and a dairy-free gravy or broth substitute for a dairy-free version.

How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?

Cook pasta al dente, drain well, and toss immediately with the sauce to prevent it from overcooking.

Conclusion

Chicken Scallopini is a simple yet flavorful meal that combines tender chicken, a rich tomato-gravy sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. With its easy preparation, versatile ingredients, and comforting taste, it’s a weeknight dinner that will quickly become a family favorite. This dish is perfect for busy evenings when you crave something delicious and satisfying with minimal effort.