Name: Delicious Chicken Francese: Quick & Easy Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Cut in half lengthwise); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (For dredging); 2 large Eggs (Beaten for dredging); 4 tbsp Butter (Adds richness); 1/2 cup Chicken Broth (Or vegetable broth); 1/2 cup Dry White Wine (Substitute with chicken broth); 2 medium Fresh Lemons (Juiced and sliced); 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (For garnish)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling chicken mingling with the bright scent of fresh lemons instantly transported me to my favorite Italian bistro. This Classic Chicken Francese with Lemon Butter Sauce is a beloved comfort food that effortlessly bridges the gap between quick weeknight meals and elegant dining. Not only is it a breeze to prepare in just 35 minutes, but it also offers a delightful experience that will have your family and friends raving. The tender, breaded chicken cutlets dressed in a zesty sauce aren’t just satisfying; they also bring a taste of Italian-American cuisine right to your table. Curious about how to make this satisfying dish that promises smiles at dinner? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Chicken Francese a Dinner Favorite?

Simplicity makes it a breeze: this recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor-packed with a lemon butter sauce that brings irresistible zing to tender chicken cutlets. Versatile enough to pair with pasta or roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—sure to impress family and friends alike! If you love satisfying yet quick dishes, you might also enjoy Chopped Chicken Caesar or Greek Chicken Meatballs.

Chicken Francese Ingredients

• Prepare to create a delightful Chicken Francese feast with these essential ingredients!

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – It’s the main protein; cut in half lengthwise for quicker cooking.
• All-Purpose Flour – Use this for dredging the chicken to create a crispy coating.
• Eggs – Binds the flour to the chicken cutlets, ensuring a nice, golden crust.

For the Sauce
• Butter – Adds richness to the sauce and helps in browning the chicken nicely.
• Chicken Broth – Provides depth of flavor in the sauce; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
• Dry White Wine – Enhances the sauce’s flavor; you can replace it with additional chicken broth for non-alcoholic versions.
• Fresh Lemons – Juiced and sliced for a zesty flavor; fresh is ideal but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
• Chopped Parsley – For garnish; adds a burst of color and freshness to your Chicken Francese dish.

Get ready to whip up a tantalizing dinner that embodies the essence of Italian-American cuisine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Francese

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by cutting each boneless skinless chicken breast in half lengthwise, and then pound the pieces to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor of your Chicken Francese.

Step 2: Dredge
Set up a dredging station with two shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour and another with beaten eggs. Coat each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip it into the egg wash, ensuring a thorough coating. This double-dredging technique will create a beautiful, crispy crust when cooked.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it foams. Carefully add the dredged chicken cutlets to the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Make Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a warm plate. Deglaze the pan with 1/2 cup of dry white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom, which add deep flavor. Allow the wine to reduce for about 2 minutes before adding 1 cup of chicken broth and the juice and slices of two fresh lemons.

Step 5: Combine
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble softly for about 3-4 minutes. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Allow the chicken to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes so it absorbs the tangy flavors of the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Once finished, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Chicken Francese to serving plates, spooning the luscious lemon butter sauce over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal. Serve hot, ideally paired with pasta or a side of roasted vegetables.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Francese

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the chicken and sauce separate to maintain texture.

Freezer: You can freeze Chicken Francese for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.

Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to retain moisture. Heat gently until warmed through.

Make-Ahead Tip: Consider making the sauce in advance and storing it separately, allowing for quicker preparation during busy weeknights.

Make Ahead Options

Chicken Francese is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken cutlets by breading them up to 24 hours in advance—simply store them in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispiness. Additionally, you can make the lemon butter sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just gently reheat it before combining with the cooked chicken. To finish the dish, warm the chicken cutlets briefly in the skillet until heated through, then drizzle with the warmed sauce. You’ll have a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Classic Chicken Francese?

Looking to create a delightful and memorable meal around your Chicken Francese? Pairing is key to elevating your dining experience!

Creamy Risotto: This rich, creamy dish adds an indulgent touch that perfectly balances the tanginess of your lemon sauce.
Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The crisp tenderness of asparagus complements the crispy chicken while adding a pop of freshness to your plate.
Pasta Primavera: A colorful assortment of sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta shines alongside Chicken Francese, creating a vibrant, healthful feast.
Lemon Herb Couscous: Light and fluffy, this dish absorbs the delicious lemony flavors from the sauce, making each bite a zesty delight.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and homemade croutons offer a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken, garnished with a creamy dressing.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing non-alcoholic drink that echoes the lemon theme and cleanses the palate between bites.

Each of these pairings not only complements the flavors of Chicken Francese but also adds different textures and freshness, creating a well-rounded dining experience.

Chicken Francese Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize this Chicken Francese recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter for a lighter flavor without sacrificing richness.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Extra Zesty: Add capers to the sauce for an unmistakable briny burst that complements the lemony flavor beautifully. Capers elevate the dish in delightful ways!
Pasta Addition: Serve the chicken over cooked pasta to transform your dish into a hearty meal. Toss the pasta with the lemon sauce for an extra punch of flavor.
Citrus Medley: Swap out the lemons for a blend of citrus fruits, such as limes or oranges, to give the sauce a refreshing twist.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the sauce to enhance the flavor profile. A hint of herbiness can make each bite sing.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce for an exciting burst of heat that will leave your palate tingling. Balance is key for perfecting the dish!

Should you need more inspiration, consider pairing this delightful dish with sides like Sticky Garlic Chicken or Coconut Chicken Rice to create a rich and flavorful dining experience!

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Francese

Perfect Thickness: Ensure chicken cutlets are pounded to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch to promote even cooking and prevent drying out.
Don’t Rush the Dredging: Double-dredge each chicken piece for a beautifully crispy coating by coating in flour, then egg. This prevents sogginess and enhances flavor.
Watch the Heat: Cook chicken on medium heat to prevent burning the butter; too high and you’ll end up with a smoky kitchen and burnt flavors.
Let the Sauce Reduce: Allow the white wine to reduce before adding chicken broth; this intensifies the flavor of your Chicken Francese sauce.
Fresh is Best: Use fresh lemons for juicing and slicing to truly elevate the dish, though bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.
Rest Before Cutting: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing; this helps retain moisture and tenderness, making your Chicken Francese irresistible.

Chicken Francese Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken breasts for Chicken Francese?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and pale pink. They should feel firm without dark spots or a strong odor. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken for a richer flavor.

How should I store leftovers of Chicken Francese?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the chicken and lemon butter sauce separate to maintain texture. Just give them a gentle reheat before serving!

Can Chicken Francese be frozen for later?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Francese for up to 3 months! Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

What should I do if my chicken turns out dry?
Don’t worry—this happens! If your chicken is dry, it could be due to overcooking. For next time, ensure your chicken is pounded to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F. Additionally, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking can help retain moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Francese?
Very good question! If you’re concerned about gluten, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative, like almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. For dairy-free, replace the butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil. Always check your chicken broth for allergens if you’re preparing for someone with food sensitivities.

Can I make Chicken Francese in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply warm the sauce on the stove before adding the cooked chicken, which will allow it to absorb all those zesty flavors in a jiffy!