Chicken Franks Recipe: Quick Family Favorite in 20 Minutes

I’ve got a game-changer for busy weeknights: my 20-minute chicken franks recipe that’s become a family favorite. This dish is a total lifesaver when you need dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity – just toss everything into a pot and let it cook. You’ll end up with perfectly cooked chicken franks in a rich, savory sauce that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Chicken Franks

Simple ingredients for a quick family dinner that’s ready in 20 minutes or less.

For the best flavor, use high-quality chicken franks—the kind with real meat and minimal fillers. Most grocery stores carry them in the meat section. I usually grab mine from Costco when I’m stocking up, but the regular supermarket brands work fine too. If you’re feeling fancy, try applewood-smoked for a deeper flavor.

No chicken broth on hand? Vegetable broth works as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different. Fresh thyme is great if you’ve got it, but dried thyme is perfectly fine—just use one-third the amount. For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility.

This recipe makes great leftovers—keeps for 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely first, then portion into airtight containers. It’ll keep for 3 months in the freezer.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Franks

Let’s get cooking! This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Step 1: Brown the Chicken Franks

Heat the 2 tbsp Olive Oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the 1 lb Chicken Franks (sliced into coins) and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nicely browned on all sides. I like to get a good sear on them as it adds flavor to the dish. Remove the browned franks from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

You’ll notice the franks aren’t fully cooked at this point—that’s okay. They’ll finish cooking in the sauce. The browning is crucial as it creates that rich, caramelized flavor that makes this dish stand out.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and add the 1 whole Onion (thinly sliced) to the same skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften and turn translucent. Then add the 4 cloves Garlic Cloves (minced) and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can quickly become bitter.

Stir the onion and garlic constantly to prevent them from sticking to the pan. You’ll know they’re ready when the onion is soft and the garlic is aromatic.

Step 3: Build the Flavorful Sauce

Pour in the 2 cups Chicken Broth, 1 can Diced Tomatoes, and 2 tbsp Tomato Paste. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the 1 tsp Dried Thyme, 1 tsp Paprika, 0.5 tsp Salt, and 0.25 tsp Black Pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. The aroma of thyme and paprika will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation.

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Franks in Sauce

Return the browned chicken franks to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes or until heated through. The franks will absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce, making them tender and juicy.

Stir occasionally to ensure the franks are well coated with the sauce. You’ll know they’re done when they’re hot throughout and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle the 0.25 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped) over the top. This adds a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the rich sauce perfectly.

Serve the chicken franks and sauce hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. This dish is perfect for a quick family dinner and can be served with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Refrigerator Storage Tips

Cool the chicken franks dish to room temperature within 2 hours before refrigerating. Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent cross-contamination. This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. ❄️

Freezer Storage Guide

For longer storage, this recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into airtight freezer bags or containers, leaving about 1 inch of headspace for expansion. Label with the date and contents. Frozen chicken franks will maintain quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Stovetop Reheating

Reheat gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through to 165°F. This method helps maintain the best texture and flavor. 🔥

Microwave Reheating

For individual portions, microwave covered with a damp paper towel on 70% power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check temperature and continue in 30-second intervals until reaching 165°F. Be careful as the sauce can splatter.

Serving After Storage

After reheating, give the dish a good stir and taste for seasoning. You may need to add a pinch of salt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley to refresh the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired, and accompanied by your choice of sides like crusty bread or rice.