Hungry for a delicious chicken dish? Look no further than Chicken Francese! This classic Italian-American recipe features tender chicken cutlets covered in a lemon-butter sauce. Best of all, with only 389 calories per serving, you can enjoy this dish guilt-free.

Aside from being delicious, Chicken Francese is also a great source of protein, with over 30 grams of protein per serving. It's also a good source of calcium and vitamin C from the lemon juice.

In this article, we'll explore the history of Chicken Francese, variations on the classic recipe, Nutritional information, serving suggestions, cooking tips, and more. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this guide will have everything you need to make the perfect Chicken Francese at home.

What is Chicken Francese?

Chicken Francese is a classic Italian-American dish that features thinly sliced chicken cutlets dredged in flour, dipped in egg, and then sautéed in a lemon-butter sauce. The dish is typically made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts and is often served with a side of pasta, vegetables, or salad. One of the signature features of Chicken Francese is the tangy lemon sauce, which is made with fresh lemon juice, white wine, and butter. The sauce is poured over the chicken once it's finished cooking, giving it a bright, zesty flavor. Chicken Francese is a relatively easy dish to make, and it's a great way to switch up your weeknight dinner routine. You can also dress it up for a fancier occasion by serving it with a side of risotto or roasted vegetables.

The History of Chicken Francese

The exact origins of Chicken Francese are unclear, but it's believed to be an Italian-American creation that emerged in the 20th century. Some stories credit Italian immigrants living in America with inventing the dish, while others suggest that it may have been inspired by French Cooking Techniques. Regardless of its origins, Chicken Francese has become a beloved dish in its own right and continues to be a popular choice at Italian-American restaurants across the country.

Chicken Francese Recipe

To make Chicken Francese at home, you'll need: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Nutritional Facts of Chicken Francese

A single serving of Chicken Francese (about 6 ounces) contains approximately: - 389 calories - 17 grams of fat

10 Variations of Chicken Francese

Looking to mix things up? Here are some delicious variations on the classic Chicken Francese recipe: - Swap out the chicken for veal cutlets or shrimp for a different twist - Use orange juice instead of lemon juice for a sweeter sauce

How to Serve Chicken Francese

Chicken Francese is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are just a few ideas to get you started: - Serve with a side of pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti - Pair with a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables for a healthy meal

Tips for Cooking Chicken Francese

Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can make sure your Chicken Francese is perfectly cooked every time. Here are some tips to keep in mind: - Use thin chicken cutlets to ensure even cooking - Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough

Pairing Wines with Chicken Francese

Looking for the perfect wine to pair with your Chicken Francese? Here are some suggestions: - White wines such as chardonnay, pinot grigio, or sauvignon blanc all pair well with the lemon-butter sauce - If you prefer red wine, try a light-bodied red such as pinot noir

Health Benefits of Chicken Francese

While Chicken Francese isn't exactly a superfood, it does have a few Nutritional benefits to keep in mind. Here are some of the health benefits of Chicken Francese: - High in protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied - Contains vitamin C from the lemon juice, which can help support a healthy immune system

Alternatives to Chicken Francese

While Chicken Francese is certainly delicious, it may not be everyone's cup of tea. Here are some other recipes to try if you're looking for something different: - Chicken Parmesan - another classic Italian-American dish that features breaded chicken topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese. - Garlic and Lemon Chicken - a flavorful and healthy chicken recipe that's quick and easy to make.