Introduction
Chicken Francese is a delightful Italian-American dish that features tender pan-fried chicken cutlets soaked in a rich, buttery lemon sauce. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting weeknight dinner. With its crisp, golden crust and zesty flavor, Chicken Francese has secured its place as a beloved classic in many households.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
– 1/2 cup olive oil (for frying)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup chicken stock
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Chopped parsley, for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Chicken Francese is simple yet elegant, making it an ideal choice for both casual meals and festive occasions. The combination of zesty lemon, savory chicken, and rich sauce creates a delicious harmony that is sure to please anyone at your table.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat it to 200°F. Place a baking sheet on the rack. Prepare the chicken by patting it dry with paper towels. Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Dredge the Chicken
In shallow dishes, prepare your dredging station. In one dish, place the flour. In a second dish, beat the eggs and finely chop fresh parsley.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess, then immerse in the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip back. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. After cooking, transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet to keep warm in the oven.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add the butter. Once melted, add garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir in parsley. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over to combine and heat through. Cook for a further minute or until heated all the way.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Breasts
For even cooking, make sure to pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness.
Note 2: Cooking Oil
Choose a high-smoke-point oil such as canola or vegetable oil for frying the chicken.
Note 3: Wine Substitute
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with additional chicken broth or lemon juice.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
Chicken Francese is often served with pasta or a side of sautéed vegetables to complement the dish.
Note 5: Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.
Cook techniques
Flattening the Chicken
To ensure even cooking and tender texture, use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
Dredging
Coat the flattened chicken in flour to create a crispy exterior when frying. Shake off any excess flour before proceeding.
Egg Wash
Dip the dredged chicken in an egg mixture to help the breadcrumbs adhere during the frying process.
Pan-Frying
Cook the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil, allowing it to develop a golden-brown crust while ensuring it cooks through evenly.
Deglazing
After frying the chicken, add white wine to the pan to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits for added flavor in the sauce.
Creating the Sauce
Prepare a sauce by combining the deglazed wine with lemon juice and butter, creating a rich, tangy finish that complements the chicken.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs for added flavor, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I serve with Chicken Francese?
Pair Chicken Francese with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze Chicken Francese?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked Chicken Francese for up to two months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Enjoy the delightful flavors of Chicken Francese, a dish that perfectly blends tender chicken with a rich lemon and white wine sauce. This classic Italian-American recipe brings together simple ingredients to create an elegant meal that’s sure to impress. Pair it with your choice of side dishes to complete the dining experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy and buttery garlic mashed potatoes make a perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce from Chicken Francese.
Sauteed Spinach
Fresh sautéed spinach with garlic adds a healthy green element to the meal while complementing the flavors of the chicken.
Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the Chicken Francese.
Risotto
Lemon risotto can echo the citrus notes in the chicken dish, providing a luxurious and creamy side.
Roasted Vegetables
A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and texture, enhancing the overall presentation of the meal.
Pasta Aglio e Olio
Simple spaghetti tossed with olive oil, garlic, and chili flakes can offer a delightful and easy side that pairs well with the chicken.
Lemon Tart
Finish the meal with a zesty lemon tart for dessert, echoing the bright flavors of the main course in a sweet way.
