Introduction to Lemon Butter Chicken Francese
Oh, busy moms and hardworking professionals, I feel your daily hustle! When dinner time comes, the last thing you want is more stress. That’s why I’m excited to share my Lemon Butter Chicken Francese recipe! This delightful dish brings together tender, crispy chicken enveloped in a luscious lemon butter sauce, truly a treat for your taste buds. Plus, it’s a quick solution when you need to whip something delicious and impressive. Whether it’s a meal for your family or a special dinner with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Chicken Francese
This Lemon Butter Chicken Francese is not just delicious; it’s also a breeze to make! With a cooking time that barely stretches past 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy nights. The crispy chicken pairs beautifully with a tangy sauce that will leave your family raving. Moreover, it’s versatile; whether you serve it over rice or pasta, it hits the spot every time. You’re going to adore this culinary gem!
Ingredients for Lemon Butter Chicken Francese
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to culinary success! For this Lemon Butter Chicken Francese, you’ll need some staples that you might already have on hand.
- Chicken Breasts: I prefer large, boneless chicken breasts, halved for quick cooking. They create a lovely texture when pounded thin.
- Salt & Pepper: These are classic seasonings. They enhance the flavor of the chicken, so don’t skip them!
- Garlic Powder: Just a hint of garlic adds depth. Feel free to use fresh garlic if you’re up for it; just mince a clove or two.
- Flour: A mix of all-purpose and seasoned flour helps create a crispy coating. You can also use gluten-free flour for a dietary twist.
- Eggs: Lightly beaten to help the flour stick to the chicken, ensuring a golden crust.
- Olive Oil: This flavorful oil is perfect for frying, giving the chicken a lovely, crisp finish.
- Butter: Adds richness to the sauce; for a flavorful punch, consider using a good-quality unsalted variety.
- Chicken Broth: It serves as the base for your sauce, contributing depth. You can also mix in a splash of dry white wine for extra flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice enhances the dish’s bright flavor. Adjust the amount based on how tangy you like your sauce.
- Lemon Slices: These add visual appeal and a punch of zestiness to the sauce!
- Optional Toppings: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color, while freshly grated parmesan cheese elevates the flavor. Both can be easily skipped if you’re in a rush.
All the exact quantities for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article for your convenience. Happy cooking!
How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Francese
Let’s dive into the fun part – making this Lemon Butter Chicken Francese! I promise, it’s not as daunting as it sounds. With these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be feeling like a culinary superstar in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First things first, take your chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Grab your trusty meat mallet and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly and become tender. Think of it as giving your chicken a spa day!
Step 2: Season and Dredge
Now, let’s season! Sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides of the chicken. This simple seasoning makes a world of difference. Next, dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip them into the lightly beaten eggs. This ensures a crispy coating when we fry them. Keep it simple, but don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat up your skillet on medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, gently place the chicken cutlets in the skillet. Cook each side for about 3 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen smells irresistible. Once cooked, set them aside on a plate while we move on to the sauce!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add some butter to the same skillet. Let it melt, then stir in a tablespoon of flour. This will help thicken our delicious sauce. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the pan to release the browned bits—those add flavor! Toss in those lemon slices and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
It’s almost time to feast! Return the crispy chicken to the skillet and make sure to coat it well with that luscious sauce. Let it soak up all those tangy, buttery flavors. Serve it hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if you wish. Trust me, your family will be singing your praises!
Tips for Success
- Always pound the chicken evenly for consistent cooking; it makes a world of difference!
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled juice just doesn’t compare.
- Feel free to tweak the seasoning to suit your family’s taste—add herbs like thyme or oregano!
- Let the sauce simmer longer if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness; the longer it sits, the less crispy it becomes!
Equipment Needed
- Meat Mallet: A rolling pin will do in a pinch if you don’t have one.
- Skillet: A nonstick skillet is ideal, but any heavy-bottomed pan will work well.
- Mixing Bowls: Use whatever you have on hand; just make sure they’re big enough.
- Heat-Proof Spatula: A wooden spatula won’t scratch your skillet and helps with flipping.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: These are essential for accuracy, though eyeballing it can be fun!
Variations
- Lemon Herb Chicken Francese: Add a mix of fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary to the seasoning for a fragrant twist!
- Mushroom Lemon Butter Chicken Francese: Sauté some sliced mushrooms in the skillet after cooking the chicken to add earthy flavors to your sauce.
- Spicy Lemon Butter Chicken Francese: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the chicken before frying for a kick of heat that balances the tangy lemon.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to keep this dish gluten-free and just as delicious.
- Veggie-Friendly Version: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant, zucchini, or cauliflower for a delightful vegetarian take on this dish.
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Butter Chicken Francese
- Rice or Pasta: Serve the chicken over fluffy rice or al dente pasta to soak up the luscious sauce.
- Steamed Veggies: Pair with fresh steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for color and crunch.
- White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the lemony flavors beautifully.
- Presentation: Garnish with lemon wedges and extra parsley for a vibrant look on the plate.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm baguette to mop up every last drop of that delectable sauce.
FAQs about Lemon Butter Chicken Francese
As I’ve whipped up this delightful dish, I’ve noticed a few common questions come up. Let me share some answers that might help you as you dive into making Lemon Butter Chicken Francese!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a bit more flavor and juiciness. Just ensure they’re cooked through to a safe internal temperature.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, just combine and reheat!
Is there a way to increase the lemon flavor?
Of course! You can add more lemon juice or zest if you crave a more tangy kick. Just remember to balance it with a little extra butter for richness.
What can I serve with Lemon Butter Chicken Francese?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with sides!
How do I store leftovers of Lemon Butter Chicken Francese?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the chicken tender and avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
Cooking my Lemon Butter Chicken Francese is more than just a dinner recipe; it’s about creating moments with family and friends. When that skillet sizzles with crispy chicken and the air fills with the aroma of lemony goodness, I can’t help but smile. This dish is simple yet impressive, perfect for those nights when you need something special without the fuss. I hope this becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. So, roll up your sleeves, turn on your favorite playlist, and let’s make dinner a joyous occasion together!
Print
Lemon Butter Chicken Francese
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Butter Chicken Francese is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines crispy chicken with a tangy lemon butter sauce, perfect for dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon flour, divided use
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup chicken broth or a mix of chicken broth and dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 lemon, sliced into thin rings
- Optional for serving: chopped parsley, freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Place chicken cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to about 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- Season both sides of chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Dredge each piece in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and fry in a preheated skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook each side for about 3 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Set cooked chicken aside, reduce heat to medium, add butter, and stir in 1 tablespoon of flour.
- Whisk in broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Add lemon slices and simmer until sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet, coat with sauce, and serve garnished with parsley and parmesan if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use seasoned flour for dredging the chicken.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to taste for a more or less tangy sauce.
- This dish pairs well with rice or pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
