Welcome to a culinary guide that promises to be both entertaining and enlightening! Today, we’re diving straight into an extraordinary dish known for its delightful blend of simple ingredients and complex flavors: Chicken Francese Recipe. Often mispronounced and even more frequently mistaken for a French dish, Chicken Francese is actually a stellar creation from the Italian-American community.
Chicken Francese Recipe Overview
- Course: Main Dish
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Total Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you get started, make sure your kitchen is equipped with the following items. You’ll appreciate having everything on hand for a smooth cooking experience. This Chicken Francese recipe requires:
- A wide, shallow bowl
- A large skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or a spatula
- A plate for resting the chicken
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering Chicken Francese. Lay out these ingredients, and you’re halfway to a masterpiece:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 4, thinly sliced |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 3, beaten |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Vegetable oil | As needed for frying |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
Did you know? Chicken Francese is often confused with Chicken Piccata, but the key difference lies in the use of eggs in Francese, which adds a rich, silky texture to the dish.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs.
Note: Ensuring the chicken is dry before dredging helps the coating adhere better.
Step 2 – Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, fry the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
Warning: Keep an eye on the heat to prevent the oil from smoking.
Step 3 – Make the Sauce
- Discard excess oil from the skillet, leaving a small amount.
- Add lemon juice, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt to the pan.
- Bring to a simmer and let reduce for 5 minutes.
- Whisk in the butter until the sauce is glossy and slightly thickened.
Note: Adding butter off the heat ensures a smooth, emulsified sauce.
Step 4 – Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Additional Tips For Perfect Chicken Francese Recipe
- Butterfly your chicken breasts if they are too thick; this ensures even cooking and a tender bite.
- Use cast iron for even heat distribution and a perfect golden sear on the chicken.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece is perfectly cooked.
Pairing Suggestions
For a truly unforgettable meal, consider these accompaniments to your Chicken Francese:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or buttered pasta make excellent sides that complement the lemony sauce.
- A crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Cholesterol | 125mg |
| Sodium | 320mg |
Approximation: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Dietary Information
This Chicken Francese recipe is perfectly suited for a low-carb diet. To adapt it for a gluten-free diet, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
FAQs about Chicken Francese
What makes Chicken Francese different from other chicken dishes?
Chicken Francese is distinguished by its egg-dipped, flour-coated chicken breast, fried to perfection and served with a lemony butter sauce, setting it apart from simpler breaded or fried chicken recipes.
Can I make Chicken Francese ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken as directed and store it separately from the sauce. Reheat gently and combine just before serving to maintain the best texture.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No chicken broth? No problem! Vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine can work well.
Is there a way to make chicken francese dish healthier?
Reduce the butter and use a light cooking spray for frying to cut down on fats without sacrificing flavor.
Can I use other parts of the chicken?
Yes, while breast is traditional, thinly sliced chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor.
How do I prevent the chicken from becoming too dry?
Avoid overcooking the chicken by using a thermometer to check doneness—165°F is your target!
Can this recipe be doubled for larger gatherings?
Easily! Just double the ingredients and cook in batches to ensure each piece is perfectly done.
Conclusion
Chicken Francese stands out for its delightful combination of tender chicken and vibrant lemony sauce—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a delicious family meal, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Drop your comments, questions, or feedback below. Let’s discuss what you think about this fabulous Chicken Francese recipe and share your own twists!
Check out some more delicious main dish recipes:
- Authentic Italian Braciole Recipe
- Brie Pasta Recipe: A Creamy Delight You Can’t Resist
- Eggs and Lentils Recipe
- Escarole and Beans Recipe
- Crispy Fish Sliders Recipe
- Crispy Chicken Fritta Recipe
Chicken Francese Recipe
Equipment
- A wide, shallow bowl
- A large skillet
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or a spatula
- A plate for resting the chicken
Ingredients
- 4 thinly sliced Chicken breasts
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 3 beaten Eggs
- 1/4 cup Fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped Fresh parsley
- Vegetable oil as needed for frying
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs.
- Note: Ensuring the chicken is dry before dredging helps the coating adhere better.
Step 2 – Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, fry the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Warning: Keep an eye on the heat to prevent the oil from smoking.
Step 3 – Make the Sauce
- Discard excess oil from the skillet, leaving a small amount.
- Add lemon juice, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt to the pan.
- Bring to a simmer and let reduce for 5 minutes.
- Whisk in the butter until the sauce is glossy and slightly thickened.
- Note: Adding butter off the heat ensures a smooth, emulsified sauce.
Step 4 – Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the sauce.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Butterfly your chicken breasts if they are too thick; this ensures even cooking and a tender bite.
- Use cast iron for even heat distribution and a perfect golden sear on the chicken.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece is perfectly cooked.
