Chicken Francese okay to make day before?

Question

Can Chicken Francese be made the night before serving?  Help!  Want to serve on Easter. Thanks.

Camille · Answer

Thanks.  Might abandon whole idea.

Ttrockwood · Answer

I think any reheating or make ahead doesn’t work well for something with a breading, and it’s easy to overcook and dry out while rewarming.
Something like ina garten’s famous lemon chicken would give you a similar flavor profile but also be much more forgiving if you need to bake earlier in the day and reheat. Also way less fuss to make
https://barefootcontessa.com/recipes/lemon-chicken-breasts

Camille · Answer

Thank you.  Also cooking other things.  Might sauté cutlets earlier, then heat with premade sauce in covered pan in low oven.

Camille · Answer

Thank you!

Cary · Answer

Typically Francese is in a very light egg batter, without breading to protect it.  I am afraid you would be very disappointed in the reheated chicken and coating: most likely dry and gummy.  It is very quick to cook but for a large group and if you need it to be done ahead, I would look for another chicken recipe; something roasted or braised maybe.

Lori T. · Answer

I think it depends on the recipe you plan to use.  The lemon sauce could be made ahead of time, chilled and ready to go.  But honestly, precooked chicken breasts usually end up dry and chalky when overcooked in the reheat process.  If you use boneless breasts which you pound into cutlets, or tenders- either of those cook rather quickly, in less than 15 minutes definitely.  You could even purchase those premade, pre-breaded and ready to cook.  Then on the day, simply cook the chicken.  While that cooks, reheat the sauce, pour over the cooked chicken, and serve up.

Chicken Francese okay to make day before?

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