Gluten Free Chicken Francese is a lighter, healthier twist on the classic Italian-American dish. It offers all the lemony, buttery goodness of traditional chicken francese, but without the gluten. This makes it a perfect choice for those following a gluten-free diet or simply looking for a healthier alternative. This dish is surprisingly simple to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
What is Chicken Francese?
Chicken Francese, traditionally, involves dredging chicken cutlets in flour, dipping them in a mixture of eggs and Parmesan cheese, and then pan-frying them to a golden brown. The chicken is then finished in a lemony butter sauce. Our gluten-free version retains the core elements of the dish but replaces the flour with a gluten-free alternative, creating a dish that is just as delicious and satisfying. This allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this classic dish without compromise.
Making Gluten Free Chicken Francese: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Prepare the Chicken: Slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts horizontally to create thin cutlets. Gently pound the cutlets to an even thickness for uniform cooking. This will also help to tenderize the chicken.
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Create the Gluten-Free Dredging Station: In one shallow dish, whisk together gluten-free all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In another shallow dish, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a splash of milk or water.
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Dredge and Dip: Dredge each chicken cutlet in the gluten-free flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dip the floured cutlet into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
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Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the coated chicken cutlets in the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
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Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add more butter, minced garlic, and white wine (or chicken broth). Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Whisk in fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Finish the Dish: Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the lemon butter sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Gluten-Free Chicken Francese Ingredients
Tips for the Perfect Gluten Free Chicken Francese
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Use a Good Quality Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Opt for a blend that is specifically designed for breading and frying. This will help to achieve a crispy crust similar to traditional chicken francese.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy chicken. Cook in batches for best results.
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Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: Feel free to add more or less lemon juice to suit your taste preferences. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Cooking Gluten-Free Chicken Francese
What to Serve with Gluten Free Chicken Francese
This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include gluten-free pasta, steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a simple salad.
“When making gluten-free chicken francese, using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend is key to achieving a crispy crust,” says Chef Amelia Russo, a renowned Italian cuisine expert. “Don’t be afraid to experiment with different blends to find one that works best for you.”
Choosing the Right Gluten-Free Flour
There are numerous gluten-free flour blends available on the market. Some popular options include blends made from rice flour, tapioca starch, potato starch, and almond flour. Experimenting with different blends can help you achieve the desired texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Chicken Francese Plated Dish
Conclusion
Gluten free chicken francese is a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone can enjoy. With a few simple substitutions, you can recreate this classic Italian-American favorite without sacrificing flavor or texture. This recipe provides a healthy and flavorful alternative to the traditional version, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
“The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity,” adds Chef Russo. “With fresh ingredients and a little bit of care, you can create a truly memorable meal.”
FAQ
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
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Can I freeze the cooked chicken? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months.
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What can I substitute for white wine? Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for white wine.
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Can I make the lemon butter sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
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What type of gluten-free pasta should I serve with this dish? Any type of gluten-free pasta will work well. Choose your favorite shape and brand.
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What are some other gluten-free side dish options? Roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, and quinoa are all great gluten-free side dish options.
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Can I omit the Parmesan cheese? Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese if you are dairy-free. Nutritional yeast can be used as a substitute for added flavor.
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