Lemon Butter Chicken Francese

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, you’ve found it in this Lemon Butter Chicken Francese! This recipe is a family favorite at my house, and I think it will be at yours too. The tender chicken cutlets are perfectly coated and serve as the star of this tangy, buttery sauce that makes your taste buds dance. Whether it’s a busy Monday or a cozy Sunday gathering, this dish brings joy to the table.

The best part? Lemon Butter Chicken Francese comes together in just about 30 minutes. It’s an effortless way to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Delight: The zesty lemon-butter sauce elevates the dish, making it a hit with everyone.
• Versatile Meal: Great for any occasion—be it casual dinners or special gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and crispy texture, even picky eaters will love this chicken!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the chicken ahead of time and cook it fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to whip up this delightful dish with some simple, wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these on hand already. Let’s gather what you’ll need for this delicious Lemon Butter Chicken Francese.

• 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 grape juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 lemon, sliced into thin rings
• Optional for serving: chopped parsley, freshly grated parmesan cheese

Variations

One of the great things about Lemon Butter Chicken Francese is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey cutlets or even fish fillets for a different twist on this classic dish.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes when making the sauce for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil to give your dish a unique flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

How to Make Lemon Butter Chicken Francese

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Place your chicken cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet. This step ensures even cooking and tenderness. Nobody likes tough chicken!

Step 2: Season and Dredge

Season both sides of your chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Then dredge each piece in flour before dipping it into the beaten eggs. This process helps create that lovely golden crust when you fry them up!

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each piece of chicken for about three minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want each piece to get that perfect crispiness!

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Once your chicken is done, set it aside. Lower the heat to medium, add butter to the same skillet, and stir in one tablespoon of flour. Whisk in chicken broth and lemon juice while scraping up those delicious browned bits from the pan—this is where all that flavor lives!

Step 5: Simmer with Flavor

Add your lemon slices into the sauce and let everything simmer until slightly thickened—about five minutes will do. This step infuses all that bright citrus goodness into your sauce.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Return your cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it well with that luscious lemon-butter sauce. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and parmesan if desired. Enjoy every bite of this delightful meal!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon Butter Chicken Francese

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, your Lemon Butter Chicken Francese will shine even brighter!

• Pound the chicken evenly: Ensuring that the chicken is pounded to an even thickness helps it cook uniformly, resulting in tender and juicy cutlets.

• Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the dish’s flavor profile significantly compared to bottled juice, providing that bright, zesty kick.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying in batches prevents the chicken from steaming, allowing each piece to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.

• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasoning throughout the cooking process ensures a balanced flavor. A little extra salt or lemon can elevate your sauce beautifully!

• Let the sauce thicken naturally: Patience is key! Allowing the sauce to simmer will concentrate its flavors and create a luscious texture that clings perfectly to the chicken.

How to Serve Lemon Butter Chicken Francese

Presenting your Lemon Butter Chicken Francese beautifully can make any meal feel special. Here are some ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds a splash of color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich buttery sauce.
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of cheese adds a savory note that complements the zesty lemon perfectly.
• Lemon wedges: Serving with extra lemon wedges allows guests to brighten their dish to their liking.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the tangy sauce.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a crisp texture and vibrant color, making it an excellent accompaniment.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a healthy option that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Broccoli: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until caramelized, broccoli adds both nutrition and a beautiful presentation alongside this delectable dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Lemon Butter Chicken Francese will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Lemon Butter Chicken Francese is not only a delightful dish for dinner but also an excellent option for meal prep! This recipe holds up beautifully, making it perfect for busy weekdays.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for the best taste.

Freezing

• Cool the chicken and sauce separately if you plan to freeze.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to remove excess air.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave on medium power until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Lemon Butter Chicken Francese!

Can I use other types of chicken for Lemon Butter Chicken Francese?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses chicken breasts, you can substitute with chicken thighs or tenders, adjusting cooking time as necessary.

How do I make Lemon Butter Chicken Francese gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging. The rest of the recipe remains the same!

What can I serve with Lemon Butter Chicken Francese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Is Lemon Butter Chicken Francese easy to prepare?

Yes! This Lemon Butter Chicken Francese recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Lemon Butter Chicken Francese as much as I do! The zesty flavors combined with the crispy chicken create an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish brings warmth and comfort to your table. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences!