Best Easy Chicken Francaise Recipe Giada

Chicken Francaise is a classic dish that is loved by many for its delicate flavors and light texture. It is a popular choice for those who want a quick and easy meal that still feels elegant and special. Giada De Laurentiis, the renowned Italian-American chef, has her own take on this classic recipe. Her version of Chicken Francaise is simple, yet delicious, making it the perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Here is the best easy Chicken Francaise recipe by Giada:

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Place the flour in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs with the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the flour, coating both sides, then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the butter until melted and well combined.
8. Place the chicken breasts back in the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Allow the chicken to sit in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
9. Serve the Chicken Francaise with a side of pasta or rice and garnish with additional fresh parsley, if desired.

Questions and Answers:

1. How long does it take to cook Chicken Francaise?
The cooking time for Chicken Francaise is about 8-10 minutes.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. What can I serve with Chicken Francaise?
Chicken Francaise pairs well with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

4. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
While it is best to cook the chicken just before serving, you can prepare the flour and egg mixture in advance to save time.

5. Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for this recipe as it provides a brighter flavor. However, if you don’t have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute.

6. Can I freeze leftover Chicken Francaise?
Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Francaise in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

7. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
While chicken broth is traditionally used in this recipe, you can substitute vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of Chicken Francaise. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.