Print

Lemon Butter Chicken Francese

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Lemon Butter Chicken Francese is a classic Italian-American dish featuring lightly battered, pan-fried chicken breasts simmered in a bright and buttery lemon sauce. It’s elegant yet easy, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced or pounded)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth or stock
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
  • Lemon slices (for garnish, optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally or pound to even thickness.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
  3. Prepare two shallow bowls: one with flour and another with beaten eggs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
  4. Dredge chicken in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
  5. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry chicken until golden and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
  6. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic briefly until fragrant.
  7. Add chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  8. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes until heated through and sauce thickens slightly.
  9. Garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for a juicier variation.
  • Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.
  • For a creamy twist, stir in a bit of heavy cream before finishing the sauce.
  • Capers add a delicious briny element if desired.
  • Chicken can be baked instead of fried and topped with sauce before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/lemon-butter-chicken-francese/