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Lemon Basil Chicken

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A zesty, flavorful twist on chicken Francese with a hint of spice. Perfect for experimenting with chicken dishes you’ll love!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 1/3 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated (plus more for topping)
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 lemons (1 for zest, 1/2 kept whole, and the other half cut into halved wheels)
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 16 oz chicken broth
  • 1 shallot, finely diced (brunoise)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 Fresno chiles, minced
  • 12 basil leaves (plus more for topping)
  • 2 tbsp chives (plus more for topping)
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 2 tsp honey
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil, for frying

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken:
    • Slice the chicken breasts and pound them to your desired thickness.
    • Mix the flour, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
  • Cook the Chicken:
    • Preheat a pan on high for 2 minutes, then reduce to medium-high and add plenty of olive oil.
    • Pat the chicken breasts dry, coat them in the flour-Parmesan mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
    • Fry the chicken until golden on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Caramelize the Lemons:
    • In another preheated pan, add a little olive oil and cook the halved lemon wheels for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized. Remove and chop finely.
  • Make the Sauce:
    • On medium heat, sauté the shallot, Fresno chiles, and garlic in olive oil.
    • Deglaze the pan with white wine, allowing it to reduce by half.
    • Stir in chicken broth, lemon zest, honey, and soy sauce. Simmer until reduced by half.
    • Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon, then add the chopped caramelized lemons, basil, and chives. Cook for another 2 minutes.
  • Finish the Sauce:
    • Turn off the heat and whisk in the butter until emulsified.
  • Serve:
    • Plate the chicken and pour the sauce over it. Garnish with extra chives, basil, Parmesan, and black pepper.

Notes

  • You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a different texture.
  • Adjust the spice level by using more or fewer Fresno chiles.
  • Serve with a side of rice, pasta, or vegetables to complete the dish.

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