Chicken Francese Pasta: A Delicious Italian-American Delight

Chicken Francese is a classic Italian-American dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, a zesty lemon sauce, and a touch of white wine. When paired with pasta, this dish transforms into a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will explore the origins of Chicken Francese, its preparation, and a step-by-step recipe to help you create this delightful dish at home.

Nutritional Benefits

1. High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall bodily functions.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken provides essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium, which support energy metabolism and immune function.
3. Healthy Fats: When prepared with olive oil, this dish contains healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.
4. Carbohydrates: The pasta provides a source of carbohydrates, which are essential for energy, making this dish a well-rounded meal.

Chicken Francese Pasta Recipe

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces of your choice of pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine)
• Salt (for pasta water)
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Toss the cooked pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. Set aside while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Flatten the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
2. Season and Dredge: Season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Deglaze the Pan: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and white wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Return the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Allow it to simmer for an additional minute to heat through.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

1. Toss the Pasta: In a large serving bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the chicken and sauce. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
2. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Chicken Francese Pasta to individual plates or a large serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Francese Pasta

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest will enhance the flavor of the sauce. Opt for high-quality chicken and fresh herbs for the best results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This allows for even cooking and a nice golden crust.
• Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and wine to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream at the end.

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