Description
Chicken Francese is a classic Italian-American dish with lightly floured and egg-dipped chicken cutlets pan-fried to golden perfection, then finished in a bright, buttery lemon and white wine sauce. It’s simple yet elegant and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (e.g., Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets. Pound to even thickness if necessary.
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, then dip into the egg mixture to coat fully.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add white wine and simmer for 1–2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add chicken broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until sauce reduces and thickens slightly.
- Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately.
Notes
Substitute more chicken broth and extra lemon juice if avoiding wine.Use gluten-free flour to make the recipe gluten-free.Add capers or a splash of cream for variations in flavor and richness.To make ahead, cook the chicken and prepare the sauce separately, then combine and reheat before serving.Chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts; adjust cook time accordingly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
