How to Make Chicken Paillard Like the French (Authentic Recipe)
If you love the delicate yet flavorful chicken dishes you’ve enjoyed during visits to France, then you’re going to adore this easy recipe for chicken paillard cooked the classic French way.
This dish features thin, tender cutlets of chicken quickly sautéed until crispy and golden brown.
A sauce made of lemon, butter, and broth is then spooned over the top to add a burst of brightness and richness.
Paillard refers to the cut of meat used; here being thinly pounded chicken breast. While paillard simply means a thin cutlet of meat pounded flat, the French have turned this simple preparation into a refined yet approachable meal.
With just a few ingredients like fresh herbs, garlic, capers, and of course, a squeeze of lemon, you’ll feel like you’re dining at a Parisian bistro right in your own kitchen.
This lemon and herb-seasoned chicken breast is extremely versatile and can be paired with a green salad for a light and flavorful lunch.
You’ll wow your family with this easy French classic. So grab your mallet and let’s get cooking à la française!
This chicken paillard recipe is adequate for serving 2 people.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove of garlic, chopped finely
- 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Chicken Paillard
To make Chicken Paillard, start by placing a boneless, skinless chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
Mix the remaining ingredients and marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes.
Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Once the oil is hot, cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Be cautious not to overcook, as the thin chicken cooks quickly.
Serve the Chicken Paillard with a squeeze of lemon juice or your preferred sauce. It’s a simple and versatile dish, suitable for various accompaniments like salads or roasted vegetables. Enjoy!
You can add herbs or spices for extra flavor. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
