If you are craving a dish that layers incredible flavors with comforting textures, the Chicken Scallopini with Caramelized Onions and Tomato-Spiced Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. Picture tender, golden-seared chicken cubes nestled in a rich gravy enhanced by sweet, slowly caramelized onions and bright tomato-spiced notes, all tossed lovingly with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both elegant and homey, making every bite a celebration of classic Italian-inspired comforts with a savory twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this Chicken Scallopini with Caramelized Onions and Tomato-Spiced Pasta Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from the robust brown gravy mix that forms the sauce’s backbone to the fresh garlic and onions that build layers of flavor and aroma. The olive oil and butter work together for that perfect sauté, while the tomato sauce and seasonings give the dish its comforting warmth and vibrancy.
- Brown gravy mix (0.87 oz): This adds the deep, savory base that enriches the sauce with a luscious texture.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 small): Tender and lean, perfect for quick searing and absorbing all the sauce’s flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken, enhancing its natural taste.
- Flour (3 tablespoons): Helps create a light coating on the chicken for a wonderful sear and thickens the sauce slightly.
- Olive oil (1-2 tablespoons): Adds a fruity richness perfect for cooking chicken and onions.
- Salted butter (1 tablespoon): Gives the caramelized onions a silky, indulgent finish.
- Yellow onion (1 small, sliced): Slowly caramelizes for a natural sweetness that balances the tomato acidity.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Provides aromatic depth and a warm, mellow bite.
- Dry white wine (1 cup or chicken broth): Used to deglaze and add subtle acidity that brightens the sauce.
- Tomato sauce (8 oz): Brings rich color and comforting warmth infused with spices.
- Thin spaghetti (3/4 lb or less for saucier dish): Tosses effortlessly with the sauce, soaking up those delicious flavors.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Classic herb mixture that adds savory, Mediterranean notes.
- Parsley (1/2 teaspoon): A fresh herb touch both in the sauce and as a garnish.
- Mustard powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and complexity to the sauce.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
How to Make Chicken Scallopini with Caramelized Onions and Tomato-Spiced Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Mixture
Begin by mixing the brown gravy packet with one cup of cold water in a large measuring cup. Stir in the tomato sauce along with the Italian seasoning, parsley, mustard powder, and salt. Setting this savory, spiced mixture aside will give it a chance to meld while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Prep and Sear Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts into equal-sized cubes for even cooking. Season them generously with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with the flour and toss until lightly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken cubes for about 3 to 4 minutes, turning to ensure every side has that lovely golden crust. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside—this step locks in juices and builds flavor for the dish.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pan
With the heat turned off, pour in a quarter cup of white wine to the skillet. Pop the heat back on medium and use a spatula to scrape up all those tasty browned bits left behind from the chicken—this is pure flavor gold that will enrich your sauce tremendously.
Step 4: Cook Onions and Garlic
Add the butter and sliced onions to the skillet, cooking them low and slow over medium heat. The goal here is caramelization, so take your time—about 20 minutes—until the onions become soft, sweet, and golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic last and cook just for another minute to keep its aroma bright and fresh.
Step 5: Add Wine and Reduce
Pour in the remaining three-quarters of the wine, letting the skillet simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This reduction concentrates the flavors and helps meld the onions and garlic into the sauce for that nuanced taste we’re after in this Chicken Scallopini with Caramelized Onions and Tomato-Spiced Pasta Recipe.
Step 6: Add Gravy Mixture and Simmer with Chicken
Pour your prepared gravy and tomato sauce blend into the skillet and bring it all to a boil. Then reduce to a simmer and return the chicken cubes to the pan. Let everything cook together, allowing the chicken to soak up those beautifully spiced, caramelized notes.
Step 7: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the thin spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly, but don’t rinse; you want the noodles to cling perfectly to that sumptuous sauce.
Step 8: Combine and Serve
Toss the cooked spaghetti gently into the skillet with the sauce and chicken, ensuring every strand is coated. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color, and serve warmly with a side of garlic bread for dipping. Every forkful is a comforting journey of flavors waiting to be savored.
How to Serve Chicken Scallopini with Caramelized Onions and Tomato-Spiced Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a fresh sprinkle of parsley or even some freshly grated Parmesan cheese elevates this dish beautifully. The herbs add a burst of green freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich tomato sauce and caramelized onions, while cheese adds a creamy, salty kick so inviting.
Side Dishes
This chicken scallopini pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, helping balance the rich sauce with fresh acidity. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that tomato-spiced sauce, making sure no deliciousness goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-style flair at home, arrange the pasta in nests on warmed plates and top neatly with the tender chicken pieces. Drizzle some extra sauce over and garnish with microgreens or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. Small ramekins of the caramelized onions on the side let guests add more sweetness according to taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as the dish rests, making next-day meals even tastier.
Freezing
This Chicken Scallopini with Caramelized Onions and Tomato-Spiced Pasta Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Portion your leftovers into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce luscious. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish at medium power, stirring halfway through to evenly heat your tasty leftovers.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and stay juicy. Just adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
What if I don’t have dry white wine?
No problem—substitute with chicken broth or a mild white grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar to mimic the acidity and complexity the wine brings.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and choose gluten-free spaghetti or pasta of your preference.
Can I make the caramelized onions ahead of time?
Yes, caramelized onions store well refrigerated for up to 3 days, which can save prep time on busy nights.
What type of spaghetti works best?
Thin spaghetti is ideal because it twirls nicely and absorbs the sauce without overpowering the tender chicken pieces.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Scallopini with Caramelized Onions and Tomato-Spiced Pasta Recipe truly warms the soul with its balanced blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors. It’s one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again not only because it’s delicious but because it brings a sense of cozy, home-cooked love to your table. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too.
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Chicken Scallopini with Caramelized Onions and Tomato-Spiced Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Scallopini recipe features tender, bite-sized chicken pieces simmered in a flavorful tomato and wine gravy sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. The dish combines caramelized onions, garlic, and Italian seasonings for a rich, comforting meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Gravy Mixture
- 1 packet brown gravy mix (0.87 oz)
- 1 cup cold water
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 1 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
Pasta
- 3/4 lb thin spaghetti (or slightly less for a saucier dish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Gravy Mixture: In a large measuring cup, combine the brown gravy mix with 1 cup of cold water. Stir in the tomato sauce and season with Italian seasoning, parsley, mustard powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep and Sear Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into equal-sized cubes. Season generously with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with flour and toss to coat each piece evenly. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken cubes for 3-4 minutes, turning to brown all sides. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Deglaze the Pan: Turn off the heat briefly and pour in 1/4 cup of the white wine. Return the heat to medium and use a spatula to scrape and loosen the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet, which adds great flavor to the sauce.
- Cook Onions and Garlic: Add butter and the sliced onions to the skillet. Cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes until the onions become soft and caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Add Wine and Reduce: Pour in the remaining white wine and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors.
- Add Gravy Mixture and Simmer: Pour the prepared gravy mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Return the seared chicken to the pan and let it cook in the sauce until heated through and the flavors meld together.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta well.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce, mixing thoroughly so the pasta is coated. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately alongside garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Using dry white wine adds depth to the sauce, but you can substitute with chicken broth if preferred or to keep it alcohol-free.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken cubes during searing to keep them tender.
- Adjust seasoning at the end of cooking if needed, adding more salt or pepper to taste.
- For a saucier dish, use slightly less spaghetti than the amount listed.
- Caramelizing onions slowly develops sweetness and complexity in the sauce; don’t rush this step.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
