Chicken Francese

When you crave a dish that effortlessly strikes a balance between comfort and elegance, look no further than Chicken Francese.

golden-brown pan-fried chicken breast being drizzled with creamy lemon butter sauce from a spoon, glossy texture,

Recipe Guide

This delightful meal is not just food; it’s an experience brimming with flavors that dance on your palate. Imagine tender chicken coated in a crispy, golden crust, bathed in a rich, creamy lemon sauce that fills your kitchen with its fragrant aroma.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Chicken Francese is sure to warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. Let’s make it together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Family-Approved: Kid-friendly yet sophisticated enough for adults; everyone will love it!
Customizable: Easily adjust the flavors or ingredients to suit your taste.

Comforting Flavors: The blend of lemon and butter creates a cozy, satisfying meal that’s hard to resist.
Presentation Perfect: The beautiful dish can impress your guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

To create your flavorful Chicken Francese, you will need the following ingredients:

½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon pepper (freshly ground, or to taste)
3 large eggs
¼ cup vegetable oil
4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, cut in half lengthwise)
1 large lemon (sliced into thin rounds, seeds removed)
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
½ cup white wine (dry)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
2 tablespoons parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground pepper. Mix until well combined.

Beat the Eggs: In another bowl, beat 3 large eggs until frothy and smooth.
Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast half first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, immerse it in the beaten eggs, ensuring a generous coating.
Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the ¼ cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces and fry until each side turns golden brown, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Sauté Lemon Slices: In the same skillet, add the sliced lemon rounds and sauté until they become fragrant and slightly caramelized, about 2 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, ½ cup of dry white wine, and 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add this mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, around 3 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the fried chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is well-coated in the lemony sauce. Simmer briefly to reheat, approximately 2-3 minutes.
Serve and Garnish: Transfer the Chicken Francese to a serving platter and garnish with chopped parsley for that pop of color. Enjoy!

Chicken Francese, top-down view, golden pan-seared chicken breasts coated in silky lemon butter sauce, fresh lemon slices and parsley garnish

Variations

Vegan Version: Replace chicken with heart-of-palm and use plant-based broth along with a batter made from chickpea flour.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the lemon sauce for an added kick.

Ingredient Swaps: Substitute white wine with additional chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version, or use different citrus fruits like lime or orange for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Francese pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it atop a bed of fluffy rice or alongside creamy mashed potatoes. A fresh garden salad with tangy vinaigrette or steamed asparagus enhances the meal and adds a refreshing touch. For a special occasion, serve with a chilled glass of white wine for a delightful dining experience.

Tips for Success

Pat Chicken Dry: Ensuring the chicken is dry will help achieve an extra crispy coating.

Monitor Oil Temperature: Oil should be hot enough to sizzle upon contact with the chicken; if it’s too cool, the chicken may become soggy.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure each piece fries evenly.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon and quality broth for the best flavor.

Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest before serving to help retain its juices.

FAQ

Can I freeze Chicken Francese?
Yes, it can be frozen! Place it in an airtight container, and it will keep for up to 2 months.

How long does it keep in the fridge?
Cooked Chicken Francese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with thinly sliced pork or even veal.

Conclusion

Chicken Francese is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that promises warmth, comfort, and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this easy-to-follow recipe will surely impress. Leave a comment if you made it! We can’t wait to hear about your delicious journey with Chicken Francese!