Easy Chicken Française Recipe – A Restaurant-Quality Lemon Chicken at Home
If you’re craving a restaurant-style chicken dinner, this Chicken Française (Chicken Francese) delivers golden, tender chicken cutlets bathed in a bright, buttery lemon sauce. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for entertaining.
In this complete guide, you’ll find ingredients, detailed instructions, variations, and pro tips to help you make the best Chicken Française every time.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a flavorful dish:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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2 tablespoons milk
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare classic Chicken Française:
Step 1 – Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Sprinkle both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Tip: For even cooking, you can lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
Step 2 – Prepare the Breading Stations
In a shallow dish, add:
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
In a separate dish, whisk together:
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2 large eggs
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2 tablespoons milk
Step 3 – Dredge the Chicken
One by one:
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Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
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Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, coating it completely.
Tip: Make sure the egg mixture covers all sides for the signature golden crust.
Step 4 – Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 tablespoons olive oil
over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
Carefully add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet.
Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, until:
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The crust is golden brown
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The chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C)
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 5 – Make the Lemon Sauce
In the same skillet (do not clean it), add:
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Using a wooden spoon, scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these add incredible flavor.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it reduce slightly for 3–4 minutes.
Step 6 – Finish the Sauce
Turn the heat to low.
Stir in the remaining:
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Whisk until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
Tip: For an even silkier finish, swirl the butter in off the heat.
Step 7 – Return Chicken to the Skillet
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet.
Spoon the lemon sauce over the top.
Simmer for 2 minutes, just until heated through.
Step 8 – Garnish and Serve
Transfer the chicken to plates or a serving platter.
Pour any remaining sauce over the top.
Sprinkle generously with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Variations & Tips
Make It Creamy:
Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce after the lemon juice for a richer, velvety version.
Gluten-Free:
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Alternate Protein:
Try turkey cutlets instead of chicken for a delicious twist.
Mild Option:
Serve the lemon sauce on the side so everyone can control the amount of brightness.
Prep Ahead:
You can dredge and sear the chicken a few hours in advance. Refrigerate, then finish in the sauce just before serving.
What to Serve With Chicken Française
This bright and buttery dish pairs well with:
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Buttery Mashed Potatoes
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Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans
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Garlic Pasta
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Rice Pilaf
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A Fresh Garden Salad
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken cutlets instead of whole breasts?
Absolutely—thin cutlets work great and cook even faster.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
Can I freeze Chicken Française?
While you can freeze it, the egg coating may soften. For best texture, enjoy it freshly cooked.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Française recipe delivers everything you love:
Crispy, golden crust
Bright lemon-butter sauce
Simple, approachable steps
It’s the perfect way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests.