Chicken Francese, also known as Chicken French, is a classic Italian-American dish that has graced dinner tables for decades. Its origins can be traced back to Italian immigrants in New York who adapted traditional recipes to suit American tastes. The result is a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts dipped in a luscious lemon-butter sauce, making it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients You'll Need
Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon slices for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preparing the Chicken Breasts
- Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken until it is about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredging the Chicken
- Prepare the Flour and Egg Mixture: Place the flour in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the chicken in the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
3. Cooking the Chicken
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep warm.
4. Making the Lemon Sauce
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Pour in the chicken broth and wine (if using), stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits.
- Add the lemon juice and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce has reduced slightly.
5. Combining the Chicken and Sauce
- Return the Chicken to the Pan:
- Place the cooked chicken breasts back in the skillet.
- Spoon the lemon sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Simmer for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Francese
- Cooking Times: Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be golden and crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside.
- Avoiding Common Mistakes:
- Ensure the oil and butter are hot before adding the chicken to achieve a perfect sear.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Presentation Tips:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a vibrant, appetizing look.
- Serve the chicken on a warm platter to maintain its temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Francese pairs beautifully with various sides and beverages:
- Sides:
- Mashed potatoes or rice pilaf
- Sautéed green beans or asparagus
- A fresh garden salad
- Beverages:
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
- Sparkling water with a twist of lemon
Conclusion
Chicken Francese is a delightful dish that brings elegance and flavor to your dining table. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the culinary experience it offers. Happy cooking!
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