When it comes to Italian-American cuisine, chicken dishes are some of the most popular options on the menu. Two of the most beloved chicken dishes are Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese. While both dishes sound similar and are often served in the same restaurants, there are a few key differences that set them apart.
In this article, we’ll break down the ingredients and cooking methods that differentiate Chicken Piccata from Chicken Francese, so that you can better understand and appreciate both dishes. Whether you’re a fan of one of these classic dishes or just curious about the differences between them, keep reading to learn more.
The Origins of Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese
The origins of Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese can be traced back to Italy and France respectively. Chicken Piccata is a popular Italian dish that features thinly sliced chicken that is dredged in flour and cooked with butter and lemon sauce. It is believed to have originated in the northern region of Italy, where capers are often used to enhance the flavor of the sauce.
On the other hand, Chicken Francese hails from France and is known as “Poulet à la Française.” It is a dish made from chicken that is coated in an egg batter and then cooked with white wine and lemon sauce. The dish was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants who modified the recipe and made it their own. As a result, Chicken Francese has become one of the most popular Italian-American dishes today. While both dishes may use similar ingredients, they have distinct flavor profiles that make them unique and beloved by many.
Ingredients Used in Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese
Both Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese are Italian-American dishes that are usually served over pasta or rice. The two dishes share some similarities in terms of ingredients, but there are also some significant differences.
Chicken Piccata typically consists of chicken breasts that are pounded thin, then dredged in flour and sautéed in a mixture of butter and olive oil. The chicken is then simmered in a sauce made from capers, lemon juice, white wine, and chicken broth. The sauce gives the dish a tangy, slightly acidic flavor that is balanced with the rich, buttery chicken.
On the other hand, Chicken Francese is made using thinly sliced chicken breasts that are dipped in a batter of eggs and flour, then sautéed in oil until golden brown. The chicken is then removed from the pan, and a sauce is made with lemon juice, butter, chicken broth, and white wine. The sauce is then poured over the chicken and served immediately. The result is a dish that is slightly sweet and sour, with a crispy coating on the chicken that contrasts with the smooth sauce.
The Cooking Technique of Chicken Piccata versus Chicken Francese
When it comes to cooking chicken piccata and chicken francese, the main difference lies in the cooking technique used to prepare these dishes. Chicken piccata is typically cooked by first dredging chicken cutlets in flour, then pan-frying them in a combination of butter and olive oil until they are golden brown on both sides. The chicken is then removed from the pan and set aside while a tangy lemon and caper sauce is prepared in the same pan. The chicken is then returned to the pan and simmered in the flavorful sauce until fully cooked.
On the other hand, chicken francese is typically cooked by first dipping chicken cutlets in a mixture of beaten eggs and flour before pan-frying them in a combination of butter and oil. The chicken is then removed from the pan and set aside while a lemon and white wine sauce is prepared in the same pan. The chicken is then returned to the pan and cooked in the sauce until fully cooked. The end result is a deliciously tangy chicken dish with a crispy exterior and a tender and juicy interior.
Flavor Profile of Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese
The flavor profile of chicken piccata and chicken francese is distinct and different from each other. Chicken piccata is primarily lemony, tangy and acidic in taste, with a subtle sweetness. It is predominantly the sauce that gives the dish its flavor, which is made with lemon, butter, capers, white wine, and chicken broth. The chicken is pounded and coated with flour before being cooked, giving it a light and crispy texture. The combination of the tangy sauce and the tender chicken results in a dish that is flavorful and fresh.
On the other hand, chicken francese is creamier and slightly sweeter than chicken piccata. In chicken francese, the chicken is dipped in egg, flour, and Parmesan cheese before being cooked in butter and oil. The sauce is made with chicken broth and a generous amount of white wine, and finished with a touch of cream. The result is a creamy, velvety texture with a sweet, rich flavor that is well balanced by the sourness of the wine. Chicken francese is typically considered a comforting, more indulgent dish compared to the lighter and fresher chicken piccata.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese
When it comes to serving chicken piccata and chicken francese, the delicious Italian-American dishes can be enjoyed on their own or accompanied by various sides. For a simple yet satisfying meal, you may choose to serve the chicken with a side of soft and fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery, seasoned pasta.
If you’re in the mood for a lighter meal, a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus or green beans, can complement both dishes perfectly. For those who prefer a heartier meal, sautéed mushrooms and onions or a creamy risotto can add extra flavour and texture to the dish. Wine is the perfect complement to these succulent dishes and a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio will go well with both chicken piccata and chicken francese. Overall, chicken piccata and chicken francese are versatile dishes that can be paired with a variety of sides and wine to suit your taste buds.
Nutritional Comparisons of Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese
When it comes to the nutritional value of chicken dishes, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the cooking method plays a role in the calorie and fat content of the dish. In general, Chicken Francese has a slightly higher calorie count than Chicken Piccata due to the flour and egg dredging process before cooking. However, both dishes can be made in a healthier way by using less oil and butter.
Secondly, the type of sauce used can also have an impact on the nutritional profile of the dish. Chicken Francese typically comes with a lemon-butter sauce, while Chicken Piccata has a sauce made from lemon juice, capers, and chicken broth. Both sauces are relatively low in calories and fat, but Chicken Francese’s lemon-butter sauce may have slightly more calories and saturated fat than Chicken Piccata’s sauce. Overall, both Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese can be nutritious choices as long as they are prepared with fresh ingredients and in moderation.
Popular Variations and Twists on the Classic Chicken Piccata and Chicken Francese recipes
When it comes to classic Italian dishes, there is always room for a little experimentation. Chefs and home cooks alike have found ways to put their own spin on traditional chicken piccata and chicken francese recipes. One popular variation is to swap out chicken for veal or fish, such as tilapia or cod. While this changes the flavor profile slightly, the lemon and wine sauce remains a staple.
Another twist on the classic recipes is to add different herbs and spices to the breading mixture, such as rosemary, garlic, or even a touch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Some cooks have even substituted the traditional white wine with a sweeter variety, such as Moscato, to create a unique twist on the dish. Whatever variations you choose, be sure to stay true to the core flavors of lemon, white wine, and capers for an authentic Italian experience.
Final Words
To conclude, both chicken piccata and chicken francaise are delicious and classic chicken dishes that originated in Italy and France, respectively. While their methods of preparation and flavor profiles are slightly different, both dishes utilize similar ingredients such as chicken, flour, butter, and white wine. Chicken piccata features a tangy lemon and caper sauce, while chicken francaise highlights a delicate white wine and lemon sauce.
Ultimately, whether you choose to make chicken piccata or chicken francaise for dinner tonight, you can’t go wrong with either option. Both dishes are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad. So, try your hand at one of these classic chicken dishes today and enjoy the rich history and delicious flavors of these beloved recipes.