Chicken Francese

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Italian

Chicken Francese features tender chicken cutlets in a tangy lemon butter sauce, perfect for those who enjoy bright flavors and a crispy, golden exterior. Ideal for a flavorful dinner.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. chicken breasts
  • 3 eggs
  • salt and pepper
  • 1 c. flour
  • 3 Tbsp. oil
  • 7 Tbsp. butter
  • 8 lemon slices
  • juice of 1/2 lemon
  • 1/4 c. chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Pound chicken breasts to 1/4 inch thickness.
  2. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.
  3. Dredge chicken in flour mixed with salt and pepper.
  4. Dip chicken into beaten eggs.
  5. Heat oil and butter in a skillet.
  6. Cook each piece of chicken until golden on each side.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crispier crust, ensure the oil and butter are hot before adding the chicken. You can substitute the flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. If you prefer a zestier flavor, add some lemon zest to the flour mixture. This dish can be served with a side of pasta, such as Linguini Con Piselli, for a complementary pairing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Francese with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs well with garlic bread or over a bed of pasta, making it a versatile dish. For a delightful contrast, consider serving with a side of Italian Wedding Soup (Low-Fat, Low Calorie) to round out the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, and cover to warm through. Avoid microwaving as it may result in a rubbery texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chicken Francese contains roughly 2558 calories, with 24g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 237g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (144% of the Daily Value), potassium (63% of the Daily Value), and protein (47% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2046mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).

2558 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 23.5g 47% DV
Total Fat 237.4g 100% DV
Carbs 99.8g 36% DV
Fiber 8.9g 32% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 2046.4mg 89% DV
Potassium 2940.3mg 63% DV
Cholesterol 182.6mg 61% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 46.8mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 42.5mg 47% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 267.9mg 21% DV
Iron 25.9mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful result. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to breasts.

What can I serve with Chicken Francese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of linguine, risotto, or a simple green salad. You can also complement it with garlic bread for a delicious meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coating in advance. Store the dredged chicken in the refrigerator until ready to cook. However, it’s best to cook it fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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