Imagine sinking your teeth into a golden-brown, crispy chicken cutlet that’s been perfectly pan-fried and smothered in a luscious lemon butter sauce. This is exactly what you get with Easy Chicken Francese! It’s a dish that combines tender chicken, zesty flavors, and a creaminess that makes each bite simply irresistible. This classic Italian-American recipe is not only bursting with flavor but is also wonderfully simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or any family gathering.
Did you know that Chicken Francese is said to have originated in the Italian immigrant community in the United States? It takes on a delightful twist from the traditional Italian “pollo alla francese,” evolving into the popular dish we know and love today! It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a bit of Italian charm to your dinner table—sure to melt hearts and satisfy appetites alike. If you enjoy recipes like our creamy Garlic Lemon Pasta, which is another family favorite, you will absolutely love Easy Chicken Francese. Let’s dive in and discover why this dish belongs in your weeknight dinner rotation!
What is Easy Chicken Francese?
You might be wondering, what’s the deal with the name “Francese”? The term itself means “French” in Italian, which makes sense when you learn that the method of cooking chicken in egg batter is similar to French techniques. But you don’t have to be a culinary expert to enjoy this delightful dish! Why is it called Francis? Well, perhaps it’s because, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and who wouldn’t fall for this juicy, lemony masterpiece? Chicken Francese is essentially the star of any dinner plate, and believe me, it could have easily taken the spotlight away from your last favorite meal. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s whip up this tantalizing dish together!
Why You’ll Love Easy Chicken Francese
The best thing about Easy Chicken Francese is its delightful simplicity that brings a taste of luxury to your dinner. The main highlight of this dish is undoubtedly the tender chicken cutlets coated in a light egg wash and flour, sautéed to a beautiful golden hue. And let’s not forget that velvety lemon butter sauce that elevates the plate from simple to sublime. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective! You can whip this up at home for a fraction of what a similar dish would cost at a restaurant.
The fresh lemon flavor brightens the whole dish, making it not only delicious but visually appealing as well. Pair it with a side of asparagus or a fresh salad to round out the meal, or even with creamy mashed potatoes for that comfort food vibe. If you’re a fan of Chicken Piccata, you’ll find that Chicken Francese brings a rich, buttery twist that’s equally indulgent. So, why not give it a go? You won’t regret it!
How to Make Easy Chicken Francese
Quick Overview
Easy Chicken Francese is a fantastic dish that’s not just bursting with flavor; it’s also easy to make! In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a gorgeous plate of chicken served with a luscious lemon butter sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this dish is both satisfying and quick to prepare.
Key Ingredients for Easy Chicken Francese
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by lightly pounding the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap until they’re about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- Season and Dredge: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken. Set up a dredging station by placing flour on one plate and lightly beaten eggs on another. Dip each chicken piece first in the flour, shaking off excess, then in the egg to coat well.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Let it simmer for a minute and then stir in the remaining butter until melted.
- Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over, and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your Easy Chicken Francese hot!
What to Serve Easy Chicken Francese With
To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving Easy Chicken Francese with a side of garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting flavor duo. Alternatively, a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides freshness and acidity that balances the rich flavors of the chicken. And if you’re in the mood for something crunchy, roasted asparagus seasoned with a hint of lemon is an excellent companion. To top off your meal, a chilled glass of sparkling water with a twist of citrus can be a refreshing palate cleanser.
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Chicken Francese
- Chicken Tenderness: Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness to prevent uneven cooking.
- Dredging Accuracy: For a crispier crust, ensure your chicken pieces are well-coated in flour and then egg—double-dipping can also yield a thicker crust!
- Sauce Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the lemon juice according to your taste; more juice will make the sauce more tangy and zesty!
- Cooking Technique: If you have a nonstick skillet, use it! It helps with even cooking and easier cleanup.
- Garnish: Adding a sprinkle of capers on top can enhance the dish while adding a briny twist.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep your chicken looking and tasting fresh, reheat it gently in a pan over low heat. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of the lemon butter sauce to keep it moist during the reheating process. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken after wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Enjoy your easy Chicken Francese anytime you crave comfort food!
So, are you ready to experience the magic of Easy Chicken Francese? This dish promises both simplicity and deliciousness in every bite. Dive into cooking and surprise your palate today!
Easy Chicken Francese
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Pounded to an even thickness
- 1 cup all-purpose flour For dredging
- 2 large eggs Lightly beaten for dredging
- 1 piece lemon Juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup chicken broth For the sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter Divided for cooking and sauce
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
- to taste Fresh parsley For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Lightly pound the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap until they’re about 1/2 inch thick.
- Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken. Set up a dredging station with flour on one plate and lightly beaten eggs on another.
- Dip each chicken piece first in the flour, shaking off excess, then coat well in the egg.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest, scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Let it simmer for a minute and then stir in the remaining butter until melted.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
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