Chicken Francese

Name: Chicken Francese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the delightful flavors of Chicken Francese, a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a light, crispy batter. Bathed in a rich lemon-butter sauce, this recipe brings a zesty twist to your dinner table, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight meal. Serve it alongside your favorite pasta or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dish.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2025-12-09T00:49:47.924Z

Chicken Francese is a beloved dish that embodies the essence of Italian-American cuisine. It's a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also warms the heart.

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

Chicken Francese is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings a burst of flavors to your palate. The zesty lemon-butter sauce perfectly complements the crispy coating of the chicken, creating a harmonious blend that is both tangy and savory. Every bite is a delightful surprise, with the richness of the butter balancing the brightness of the lemon, making it a dish that appeals to a variety of tastes.

This recipe resonates well with lovers of Italian cuisine and those seeking a comforting, yet sophisticated meal. The classic method of battering and frying the chicken ensures a juicy interior while maintaining a golden, crunchy exterior. Such contrasting textures elevate your dining experience, encouraging everyone around the table to enjoy another helping.

A Quick and Easy Dinner Option

With busy weeknights in mind, Chicken Francese emerges as a quick and effortless dinner solution without compromising flavor. The preparation and cooking process is streamlined, allowing you to whip up this gourmet dish in under an hour. By utilizing simple techniques like dredging and sautéing, you can bring a little touch of elegance to your dinner routine.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile, making it easy to customize with your favorite ingredients or sides. Whether you prefer it alongside pasta, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad, Chicken Francese can adapt to suit your cravings while still delivering a satisfying meal that your family will adore.

Tips for Serving and Pairing

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup chicken broth
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, mix the flour with some salt and pepper. In another dish, beat the eggs with grated Parmesan cheese.

Coat and Fry

Dredge each chicken thigh in the flour, dip into the egg mixture, then return to the flour for a second coating. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, then add the coated chicken.

Make the Sauce

Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove chicken and add lemon juice, chicken broth, and the remaining butter into the skillet. Bring to a simmer.

Combine and Serve

Add the chicken back to the skillet and cook in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Chicken Francese with pasta or a fresh salad!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing Chicken Francese is simple. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the chicken's moistness, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to prevent drying out.

For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions, though be cautious not to overshoot the cooking time as this may lead to a tough texture. Reheating with care ensures that each bite remains as delicious as when it was freshly made.

Why Choose Chicken Thighs?

In this Chicken Francese recipe, chicken thighs are chosen for their rich flavor and tenderness compared to chicken breasts. Dark meat, such as thighs, tends to retain moisture better during cooking, resulting in a juicier final product. This is particularly advantageous for frying, where maintaining texture is crucial.

Additionally, chicken thighs are generally more forgiving in terms of cooking time, making them less likely to dry out. This delicious cut allows for delicious flavor absorption from the lemon-butter sauce, ensuring that you savor every bite. It's no wonder that many chefs prefer thighs for dishes requiring a flavorful base.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require slightly less cooking time.