🤤 Easy Chicken Francese Recipe | Cook in 30 Mins

by | Jun 3, 2024 | Chicken Recipes, Recipes

Imagine getting home after a long, tiring day. The last thing on your mind is spending hours in the kitchen. But, you recall a recipe by Tyler Florence on Food Network—it’s the Chicken Francese.

This Chicken Francese dish is simple yet authentic. It takes you straight to an Italian trattoria. What’s more, you can whip it up in just 30 minutes. Thanks to the presentation in Lemon8 Gallery, this feels like a homemade dish, perfect for all cooks.

Key Takeaways

  • Quick preparation: Enjoy a tasty meal in just 30 minutes.
  • Authentic flavor: Inspired by Tyler Florence’s recipe.
  • Homemade ease: Perfect for cooks at any skill level.
  • Simplicity: Straightforward steps ensure success every time.
  • Versatility: Delightfully serves as a main course or a special occasion dish.

Introduction to Chicken Francese

The classic chicken francese is a favorite in Italian-American kitchens. People love it for its wonderful taste and easy making process. This chicken francese recipe stays true to its origins, giving you a meal that’s full of heart and lemon flavor, enjoyed by all ages.

Italian immigrants in the U.S. first made classic chicken francese. Its name means “French chicken,” showing how it blends simple and refined cooking. The recipe calls for frying chicken breasts lightly coated with flour, garlic powder, and eggs until they’re golden.

A special sauce made with butter, chicken broth, and lemon juice, plus sometimes white wine, tops the chicken. It adds a tangy and luxurious taste to the dish.

This chicken francese recipe is known for being so adaptable. It goes well with a range of sides, like mashed potatoes or pasta. Plus, you can keep it in the fridge for four days or freeze it for up to three months, which is great for planning ahead.

It’s also pretty healthy. A single serving gives you around 277 calories, plenty of protein, and good-for-you vitamins and minerals. So, whether it’s a casual family meal or a fancy get-together, classic chicken francese will surely wow your guests.

Ingredients Needed for This Easy Chicken Francese Recipe

To make a great chicken Francese, start with the right stuff. We’ll go through what you need for this tasty Italian-American favorite.

chicken francese ingredients

Essential Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 4 thin steaks)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (divided)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (Chardonnay is preferred by 75% of cooks)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 lemon (for juice and slices)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

These are the must-haves for your chicken Francese. They come together to give it that wonderful, tangy taste.

Optional Ingredients

  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)
  • Alternative non-alcoholic white wine (for substitution if needed)
  • Additional enhancements like basil, rosemary, or thyme
  • Heavy cream (to make the sauce richer)
  • Garlic, olives, capers, mushrooms, or asparagus (for added flavor)

Adding extra ingredients lets you make the dish your own. You could try parsley or cream. It’s quick to make, ready in just 25 minutes.

Preparation Tips for the Best Chicken Francese

Learning to make Chicken Francese well can boost your cooking game. It brings a taste of high-end dining to your kitchen. To cook chicken that’s juicy and full of flavor, try these tips.

Pounding the Chicken

To make chicken francese, you need your chicken breasts an even thickness. Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut each into four thin pieces. Then, cover them with plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them. This step makes sure your chicken cooks evenly and is tender.

Seasoning for Maximum Flavor

Getting the seasoning right is crucial. Begin by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Then, dip them in flour. Be sure to coat them well but shake off any extra flour. Adding herbs like rosemary or basil can make your dish smell amazing.

After the flour, dip your chicken into an egg and milk mix. This layer holds in moisture and makes a nice crust when fried. Cook the chicken for 4 minutes on each side. It should reach 68°C/155°F inside. This way, your chicken will be perfectly juicy.

Follow these steps for an outstanding chicken francese. Paying attention to seasoning and preparation details is key. Doing it right will really make this Italian-American favorite shine.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Chicken Francese

Cooking easy chicken francese is all about careful steps to make its flavor stand out. Here’s a detailed guide to help you along.

Dredging and Coating

First off, you’ll need these items: 4 thin-slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs, salt, pepper, and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Then, set up your space with flour, beaten eggs, and a place to coat the chicken.

  1. Coat each chicken breast in flour, making sure all parts are equally covered.
  2. Next, dip the floured chicken in the beaten eggs. Let the excess egg drip off before putting it on the plate. This coating will help the chicken get a crispy outside when you cook it.

easy chicken francese

Cooking in a Skillet

Get a big skillet warm over medium-high heat. Add 1/4 cup of olive oil to it. You’re about ready to cook the chicken.

  1. Place the chicken into the hot skillet carefully. Cook for around 3 minutes on each side. Stop when you see a golden brown color and when the inside hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Take the cooked chicken out and put it on a plate. Keep it warm as you make the sauce.

Making the real taste of chicken francese is all in these detailed steps. By following them, you’ll get a dish with a perfect golden brown outside that tastes amazing.

Making the Lemon Wine Sauce

Getting the lemon wine sauce right is crucial for your chicken francese. It gives the dish a zesty and rich taste. This sauce perfectly pairs with the crispy chicken. Let’s look at how to make this tasty sauce.

Ingredients for the Sauce

To make an authentic sauce for chicken francese, you will need these ingredients:

  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (recommended: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons plain flour (for thickening)
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking the Sauce

Here’s how to make your sauce for chicken francese:

  1. First, cook the chicken cutlets and keep them warm. If the skillet needs it, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
  2. Next, pour in the white wine. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, reducing a bit.
  3. Then, add the chicken broth and lemon juice. Mix everything well.
  4. Put in the flour to thicken the sauce. Keep whisking to prevent lumps.
  5. Add the butter bit by bit, whisking all the time. You should get a sauce like maple syrup in about 5 minutes.
  6. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Make sure your sauce turns out smooth and silky. This will make it taste very rich and lively.

Finishing the lemon wine sauce is essential. It adds a wonderful zing to the chicken francese. This zesty sauce completes the dish beautifully.

Combining Chicken with the Sauce

Once both the chicken and the sauce are ready, it’s time to combine them. This makes a delightful homemade chicken francese. You’ll get a dish that’s rich in both taste and smell.

Simmering Together

Put the pan-fried chicken back into the skillet with the lemon wine sauce. Let it all simmer for about 4 minutes. This step makes the chicken hot while soaking up the tasty sauce.

Stir from time to time to stop it from sticking. Make sure every piece gets enough sauce on it.

Finishing Touches

After simmering, make your chicken francese top-notch by adding a few final touches. Sprinkle parsley on top. This not only adds color but also a fresh taste.

Serve right away to keep the outside of the chicken crispy.

Now, let’s quickly go over the steps:

Step Action Duration Notes
1 Place chicken in sauce 1-2 minutes Make sure sauce covers the chicken well
2 Simmer 4 minutes Stir the chicken sometimes while it cooks
3 Add parsley 1 minute Put parsley on just before you serve

Stick with these steps for a tasty homemade chicken francese. This way, you get a meal that’s full of flavor. You’ll create a dinner that everyone will remember.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Francese

Make your meal special with smart chicken francese serving suggestions. By adding well-matched side dishes and organizing your plate nicely, a normal dinner becomes like high-end dining.

Side Dishes

Find out about yummy side dishes that make Chicken Francese even better:

  • Angel Hair Pasta: It’s perfect for soaking up the lemon wine sauce, making every bite divine.
  • Jasmine Rice: It adds a pleasant, aromatic touch that goes well with the dish’s flavors.
  • Gluten-Free Pasta: A great option for those who can’t have gluten, keeping the meal tasty.
  • Parmesan Orzo: This dish is flavorful and goes well with the lemony sauce.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: They add a healthy, crispy element to the meal, balancing its richness.
  • SautĂ©ed Mushrooms and Onions: They add depth and earthiness, making each mouthful interesting.
  • Baked Potatoes: A classic choice, they’re hearty and tasty, completing the meal.
  • Mustard Greens with Bacon: They offer a unique taste and a pretty color on the plate.
  • Roasted Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness is a lovely contrast to the dish’s savory flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Here’s how to make your dinner table look as good as the food tastes:

  1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a finishing touch by sprinkling parsley or basil on top. It looks lovely and smells great.
  2. Use Elegant Serving Dishes: Choose plain, light-colored plates to make your food’s colors pop.
  3. Layer and Arrange Thoughtfully: Arrange the main dish over the pasta or rice, with other dishes around it. It makes everything look inviting.

Using these ideas will make any meal, whether at home with family or entertaining guests, taste great and look beautiful.

Tips for Making Chicken Francese Ahead of Time

For busy home cooks, prepping chicken francese early is a smart move. By using a few smart tips, your dish can still taste great when you serve it.

Make the lemon wine sauce ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 48 hours. After making the sauce, put it in a sealed container. When you reheat it, it might not look perfect. But, gently stirring it while warming can help fix that.

chicken francese ahead of time

You can also bread the chicken in advance. Do this up to two hours before you cook it. This lets the flour and egg stick well, so you get a good crunch when frying. After breading, store the chicken covered in the fridge.

To reheat, use the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes. Or you can slice it and microwave it. The oven keeps it fresh but still warm. Slicing first makes sure it’s not too tough.

Freezing chicken francese is an option too. Cook, cool, freeze, then thaw in the fridge to reheat. This means a tasty meal is always just a reheat away, without the quality loss.

Lastly, better ingredients are key. Go for fresh lemon, good wine, and well-made chicken stock. This can really lift the flavors of your dish.

Following these strategies will make your meal prep smoother. Enjoy great-tasting chicken francese with little last-minute rush.

Alternative Variations of Chicken Francese

Cooking in different ways lets everyone enjoy dishes like Chicken Francese. You can make it gluten-free and non-alcoholic easily. This keeps the dish’s great taste but welcomes more people to the table.

Gluten-Free Option

For a gluten-free diet, you just need to change a few things in the traditional recipe. Use gluten-free flour to coat the chicken instead of regular flour. Also, check that the chicken broth is gluten-free. This way, those who can’t take gluten can still enjoy this delicious meal.

Non-Alcoholic Sauce

Some people don’t drink alcohol, and that’s okay. Making the sauce non-alcoholic is simple. Instead of white wine, use chicken broth without a lot of salt. Or, mix apple cider vinegar with water. These swaps keep the tangy flavor alive, making a tasty non-alcoholic chicken francese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Francese, steer clear of some mistakes. Badly cut or pounded chicken won’t cook evenly. Always slice the chicken breast horizontally for four even pieces.

chicken francese mistakes

Choosing pricey wine for the dish is a mistake. Though you should use Chardonnay, pick an affordable dry one. This saves money without losing taste.

Cooking time is key for the chicken. It should fry 3 minutes each side, aiming for 68°C (155°F) inside. Cooking too long makes it dry, while too short is unsafe.

Getting the sauce right is crucial. Use chicken stock, butter, and Chardonnay, cooking until it’s like syrup. This takes about 4 minutes. Perfecting the sauce’s consistency is vital for taste and texture.

Make enough sauce for the sides, like mashed potatoes. The recipe serves four. So, maintain ingredient proportions to have enough for everyone.

Remember, the whole process takes 40 minutes. Prep is 15 minutes and cooking is 25. Don’t rush. Cutting corners harms the dish’s quality.

By avoiding these mistakes, your Chicken Francese will impress every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section is all about answering common questions on how to make chicken francese. It’s designed to help those eager to cook this tasty Italian-American meal. Whether you’re wondering about changing the ingredients or picking the best cooking tricks, this part covers lots of helpful topics for better cooking.

Can I use Chicken Thighs?

A frequent question is whether chicken thighs work in chicken francese. The answer is yes. You can swap chicken breasts for thighs. Yet, the dish will turn out a bit different. Thighs are juicier and offer more flavor than breasts. Just be sure they’re without bones and skin. Then, tenderize them to an even size for uniform cooking.

What type of wine works best?

Many people wonder about the best wine for the lemony sauce in chicken francese. A dry white wine fits the bill. Think of options like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. These types help the sauce’s flavors, countering the lemon’s bite. Plus, you should choose a wine you like. Its taste will affect the dish’s final flavor.

Whether you cook often or are just starting out, these chicken francese FAQ will smooth your way into the kitchen. With this info, preparing a delicious Chicken Francese for your loved ones becomes much easier.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Francese Every Time

Making the perfect Chicken Francese is simple with the right advice. Here, experts share key tips for each step. They help make your dish both tasty and good-looking.

First, gather your ingredients: boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chicken stock, dry white wine, and fresh lemon juice. Having these ready will make cooking a breeze.

Remember these expert chicken francese tips:

  1. Proper Chicken Preparation: Flatten the chicken breasts to the same thickness. Aim for about 1/2-inch. This step ensures they cook evenly, with no parts underdone or dry.
  2. Dredging and Seasoning: Coat the chicken in flour and a beaten egg for a great texture. Add garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper for a burst of flavor.
  3. Efficient Cooking: Cook the chicken in a skillet until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. This gives it a crispy outside without being too dry inside.
  4. Perfecting the Sauce: Once the chicken is browned, pour wine into the skillet to gather up the tasty bits. Then, add stock and lemon juice. Cook for 5 minutes and thicken with a mix of water and cornstarch.
  5. Combining and Finishing: Put the chicken back in the skillet, letting it soak up the sauce for 2 more minutes. Top with parsley for a fresh touch.

How you reheat it matters. Warm your oven to 350°F and heat the dish for 30 minutes. Or, use a microwave for smaller servings. For freezing the perfect chicken francese, do so before cooking. Then defrost, heat, and enjoy whenever you like.

Following these expert chicken francese tips guarantees a tasty meal. Your homemade Chicken Francese will taste as good as any from a fancy restaurant.

How to Pair Wines with Chicken Francese

Picking the right wine for chicken Francese makes your meal even better. It should complement the lemon taste and creamy sauce. Here are simple tips and wine picks to make your chicken francese meal shine.

Wine Pairing Basics

Focus on wines that make the citr us and butter shine in chicken francese. White wines with brightness and a bit of fruit do the trick. They balance the rich sauce and elevate the lemon flavor.

  • Acidity: Wines like Sauvignon Blanc take on the sauce’s creaminess well.
  • Fruitiness: A bit of fruit in the wine can enhance the meal’s taste.
  • Body: Medium-bodied wines match the dish’s delicate flavors without overpowering them.

Specific Recommendations

To really make your chicken francese sing, we’ve picked out some wines just for you. They balance perfectly with the dish and each bring unique flavors.

Wine Name Varietal Price Range Professional Palate (PP) Score
Rey Santo Rueda 50% Viura, 50% Verdejo $9-11 88
Foucher-Lebrun Sancerre Blanc Le Mont Sauvignon Blanc $17-20 92
Calera Chardonnay Chardonnay $18-21 90
The Seeker Sauvignon Blanc Sauvignon Blanc $12-15 4.7/5
Catena Appellation Tupungato Chardonnay Chardonnay $14-18 4.6/5
Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc–Viognier Chenin Blanc, Viognier $15-19 4.6/5
Yves Cuilleron Marsanne Les Vignes d’Ă  CĂ´tĂ© Marsanne $25-30 4.5/5
Truchard Roussanne Roussanne $22-26 5/5

Sticking to our wine recommendations will help you achieve the perfect blend. This turns your homemade chicken francese into an unforgettable meal.

User Reviews and Testimonials

People love the chicken francese and share their experiences. One thing many notice is how it mixes simplicity with big flavors. A reviewer said, “The lemon wine sauce makes the chicken taste light and tangy. My family really liked it.” Many others agree, pointing out the great mix of tastes.

Someone else liked how the recipe was laid out step by step. They said, “Even without much experience, I followed the guide and made a dish that looked professional.” This shows that anyone can cook this meal well thanks to the clear instructions. And it turns out great every time.

Here’s a quick look at some of the statistics and feedback from user experiences:

Measurement Statistic
Total Preparation Time 1 hour
Number of Servings 10 people
Main Ingredients 30 chicken tenderloins, lemon sauce ingredients
Sauce Cooking Time 5 minutes
Oven Preheating Temperature 350 degrees F

Many users mention how much they enjoy the dish’s taste and texture. Even though it takes time, finishing within an hour is seen as a win. They are also happy that one batch can feed a large group.

One chef was thrilled to find this recipe for a family party. They said, “I made it in advance, and it was a big success. The flavors made many happy, and I found it simple to prepare.” This kind of story shows how this recipe can be a game changer for anyone’s kitchen.

Conclusion

This perfect Chicken Francese recipe blends Italian-American traditions with modern cooking. It uses only a few key ingredients like boneless, skinless chicken breasts, lemon juice, and chicken broth. You can make this tasty dish easily in under 30 minutes.

First, pound the chicken to an even thickness. This ensures it cooks evenly. Then, make a simple lemon-butter sauce. Cook the chicken on both sides for 3-4 minutes each, until golden. Finish it in the oven for juiciness.

This dish’s charm is the mix of golden chicken and tangy buttery sauce. It creates a rich, citrus flavor. These steps are simple but the result is a dish fit for a fancy dinner at home.

Follow our detailed guide for a restaurant-style Chicken Francese. You’ll get helpful tips and ways to avoid common mistakes. This guarantees delicious results every time, whether for your family or guests.

FAQ

Can I use Chicken Thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Chicken breasts are often used for the classic taste. Make sure the thighs are boneless and without skin for the best dish.

What type of wine works best?

A dry white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, fits well with Chicken Francese. These wines bring out the dish’s mild flavors.

Can I make the dish ahead of time?

You can get parts of the dish ready early. Coat the chicken beforehand and keep it in the fridge before cooking. You can also prep the lemon wine sauce ahead and just reheat it.

What can I substitute if I don’t want to use wine?

To skip the wine, use chicken broth, or a mix of broth and lemon juice. This will keep most of the flavor without the alcohol.

Are there gluten-free options for Chicken Francese?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free flour. Just ensure all ingredients, like the broth, are gluten-free too.

What sides go well with Chicken Francese?

Great sides include steamed veggies, roasted potatoes, or a salad. Pasta or rice is a traditional addition for the sauce.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Cook the chicken until it’s 165°F inside. It should also have a golden brown coat. Cut the chicken; the juices should be clear.

Can I freeze Chicken Francese?

It’s better to eat Chicken Francese fresh. But, if you freeze it, keep the chicken and sauce apart. This keeps the taste and texture better after reheating.