15 Easy French Lunch Recipes for Work or Home

French cuisine is celebrated for its elegance, rich flavors, and use of fresh, high-quality ingredients.

A French lunch is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that combines simplicity, creativity, and balance.

From savory quiches and hearty stews to fresh salads and rustic sandwiches, French lunches offer something for every palate.

Cooking French-inspired dishes at home doesn’t have to be complicated; many recipes are quick, approachable, and perfect for midday meals.

In this article, we’ve curated 15 French lunch recipes that are flavorful, satisfying, and ideal for bringing a touch of France to your table.

15 Easy French Lunch Recipes for Work or Home

French lunches are all about balancing flavors, textures, and fresh ingredients in every bite.

These 15 French lunch recipes provide a mix of light, hearty, and indulgent options suitable for workdays, weekends, or casual gatherings.

By using classic techniques, herbs, and simple ingredients, you can recreate the magic of French cuisine at home.

Experiment with fresh vegetables, cheeses, and seasonings to make each recipe your own.

With these recipes, you can enjoy the elegance and taste of France right in your own kitchen, one delicious lunch at a time.

Chicken Provençal

This classic French dish is aromatic, flavorful, and wholesome.

Chicken breasts are sautéed and simmered in a sauce of tomatoes, garlic, olives, and fresh herbs.

The combination of Mediterranean flavors makes this dish savory and satisfying.

Perfect for a French-inspired lunch that is elegant yet simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup black olives, pitted
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
• Season chicken with salt and pepper and sear until golden, about 6–7 minutes per side.
• Add tomatoes, olives, thyme, and rosemary.
• Simmer 10–15 minutes until chicken is cooked and flavors meld.
• Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil.

This dish is fragrant, flavorful, and satisfying.

Chicken provides protein and a tender texture.

Tomatoes and olives add richness and depth.

Herbs create authentic Provençal flavor.

A perfect French-inspired lunch that is simple yet elegant.

Ratatouille with Poached Eggs

This dish is colorful, healthy, and full of Mediterranean flavors.

Eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes are sautéed with garlic and herbs to create a rich vegetable stew.

A perfectly poached egg adds creaminess and protein to the dish.

Ideal for a light but satisfying French lunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 small eggplant, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp basil
• 2 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté garlic until fragrant.
• Add eggplant, zucchini, and bell pepper; cook 5–7 minutes.
• Stir in tomatoes, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper; simmer 10 minutes.
• Poach eggs in simmering water and serve over ratatouille.
• Drizzle with extra olive oil if desired.

This dish is colorful, hearty, and flavorful.

Vegetables provide vitamins, fiber, and freshness.

Poached eggs add richness and protein.

Herbs enhance natural Mediterranean flavors.

A classic French lunch that is both light and satisfying.

Croque Madame

This iconic French sandwich is rich, savory, and indulgent.

Grilled ham and cheese sandwich is topped with a fried egg and a drizzle of béchamel sauce.

The combination of melted cheese, ham, and runny egg creates a luxurious flavor profile.

Perfect for a decadent French-style lunch.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices bread (gluten-free optional)
• 2 slices ham
• 2 slices Gruyère or dairy-free cheese
• 1 tbsp butter or dairy-free alternative
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp béchamel sauce (or dairy-free cream sauce)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter.
• Assemble sandwiches with ham and cheese.
• Grill sandwiches until golden and cheese is melted, 3–4 minutes per side.
• Fry eggs sunny-side up and season with salt and pepper.
• Place egg on top of sandwich and drizzle with béchamel sauce.

This Croque Madame is indulgent, creamy, and flavorful.

Ham and cheese add protein and richness.

The fried egg creates a luxurious, runny texture.

Béchamel sauce adds a velvety finish.

A quintessential French lunch perfect for a leisurely meal.

French Onion Soup with Chicken

This version of French onion soup is hearty, rich, and comforting.

Caramelized onions simmer in a savory broth and are topped with sliced chicken breast and fresh herbs.

The deep flavor of onions and herbs makes this soup warming and satisfying.

Perfect for a cozy French-style lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Sauté onions until caramelized, about 20–25 minutes.
• Add chicken broth and thyme; simmer 10 minutes.
• Add sliced chicken and cook 5 minutes to heat through.
• Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh parsley.

This soup is savory, aromatic, and satisfying.

Chicken adds protein and substance.

Caramelized onions provide sweetness and depth.

Herbs enhance the natural flavor of the broth.

A comforting and elegant French-inspired lunch.

Niçoise Salad with Seared Chicken

This classic French salad is fresh, vibrant, and protein-rich.

Seared chicken breast is served with boiled eggs, green beans, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a Dijon vinaigrette.

The combination of flavors and textures creates a balanced and satisfying lunch.

Perfect for a healthy French-inspired meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, halved
• 1 cup green beans, blanched
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup black olives
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Season chicken with salt and pepper and sear 6–7 minutes per side until cooked.
• Whisk olive oil, Dijon mustard, and red wine vinegar to make vinaigrette.
• Arrange mixed greens, green beans, cherry tomatoes, and olives on plates.
• Slice chicken and place on salad along with halved boiled eggs.
• Drizzle with vinaigrette before serving.

This Niçoise salad is fresh, vibrant, and flavorful.

Chicken adds protein and substance.

Vegetables provide crunch, vitamins, and color.

Dijon vinaigrette enhances flavor naturally.

A light yet satisfying French-style lunch.

Poulet à l’Estragon (Tarragon Chicken)

This dish is aromatic, tender, and full of classic French flavor.

Chicken breasts are sautéed and simmered in a creamy tarragon sauce made with shallots, white wine, and herbs.

The result is an elegant and satisfying lunch that is both light and flavorful.

Perfect for a refined French-inspired midday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup white wine
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried tarragon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sauté shallots until soft and fragrant.
• Season chicken with salt and pepper and sear 6–7 minutes per side.
• Add white wine, chicken broth, and tarragon; simmer 10 minutes.
• Serve chicken with sauce drizzled over the top.

This dish is tender, aromatic, and flavorful.

Tarragon infuses the chicken with a classic French taste.

Shallots add subtle sweetness and depth.

White wine sauce enhances richness naturally.

An elegant lunch that brings French cuisine to your table.

French Lentil Salad with Chicken

This salad is hearty, earthy, and nutritious.

Cooked lentils are combined with seared chicken breast, diced vegetables, and a Dijon mustard vinaigrette.

The combination of flavors and textures makes it filling yet light.

Perfect for a protein-packed, French-style lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 cup cooked French green lentils
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Season chicken with salt and pepper and sear 6–7 minutes per side until cooked.
• Toss lentils, carrot, and celery with olive oil, Dijon mustard, and vinegar.
• Slice chicken and add on top of lentil salad.
• Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

This salad is hearty, fresh, and balanced.

Chicken adds lean protein and substance.

Lentils provide fiber, texture, and earthiness.

Dijon vinaigrette adds classic French tanginess.

A wholesome and satisfying lunch inspired by French cuisine.

Ratatouille Tart with Chicken

This lunch is colorful, rustic, and full of flavor.

A flaky puff pastry is topped with seared chicken breast and a medley of roasted vegetables, including zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.

Herbs like thyme and basil create authentic Provençal flavors.

Perfect for a French-inspired, hearty midday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 small zucchini, sliced
• 1 small eggplant, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 sheet puff pastry (gluten-free optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Season chicken with salt and pepper and sear 6–7 minutes per side.
• Roast vegetables with olive oil, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
• Lay puff pastry on a baking sheet and top with chicken slices and roasted vegetables.
• Bake 10–12 minutes until pastry is golden.

This tart is colorful, savory, and satisfying.

Chicken adds protein and substance.

Roasted vegetables provide sweetness, texture, and nutrients.

Herbs enhance the natural flavors authentically.

A rustic French lunch that is both elegant and filling.

Coq au Vin Inspired Chicken Bowl

This dish is rich, savory, and aromatic.

Chicken breasts are simmered with mushrooms, onions, and a light red wine sauce.

Carrots and fresh herbs add depth and color, creating a comforting French-inspired lunch.

Perfect for a sophisticated midday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 carrot, sliced
• ½ cup red wine
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sear chicken breasts until golden, 6–7 minutes per side, then remove.
• Sauté onions, mushrooms, and carrots until softened.
• Add red wine, chicken broth, thyme, and chicken; simmer 10 minutes.
• Serve hot with sauce poured over the chicken.

This dish is rich, aromatic, and satisfying.

Chicken provides lean protein and substance.

Mushrooms and carrots add earthiness and sweetness.

Red wine sauce enhances depth and flavor naturally.

A comforting French lunch perfect for any day.

Niçoise Chicken Sandwich

This French-inspired sandwich is fresh, vibrant, and protein-packed.

Seared chicken breast is layered with green beans, olives, hard-boiled eggs, and tomatoes on a crusty baguette or gluten-free bread.

A Dijon vinaigrette adds classic French flavor.

Perfect for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced
• ½ cup green beans, blanched
• ¼ cup black olives, sliced
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 baguette or gluten-free bread
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Season chicken with salt and pepper and sear 6–7 minutes per side.
• Whisk olive oil and Dijon mustard to make vinaigrette.
• Slice baguette and layer chicken, egg, green beans, olives, and tomato.
• Drizzle with vinaigrette and serve immediately.

This sandwich is vibrant, savory, and satisfying.

Chicken adds protein and substance.

Vegetables and egg provide crunch, nutrients, and color.

Dijon vinaigrette enhances French flavor naturally.

A fresh and flavorful French-style lunch perfect for any day.

Poulet Rôti with Herbes de Provence

This roasted chicken dish is aromatic, tender, and full of classic French flavors.

Chicken breasts are seasoned with Herbes de Provence, garlic, and olive oil, then roasted to perfection.

The combination of herbs and slow roasting brings out deep, savory flavors.

Perfect for a simple yet elegant French-inspired lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tsp Herbes de Provence
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• Rub chicken with olive oil, garlic, Herbes de Provence, salt, and pepper.
• Roast chicken for 25–30 minutes until cooked through.
• Let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

This dish is aromatic, tender, and flavorful.

Herbs infuse the chicken with classic French taste.

Garlic adds subtle depth and richness.

Oven roasting enhances natural flavors beautifully.

A simple and elegant French lunch option.

Quiche Lorraine with Chicken

This savory quiche is rich, creamy, and satisfying.

A flaky crust holds a mixture of eggs, chicken breast, onions, and dairy-free cream, baked until golden.

The combination of flavors creates a classic French lunch perfect for any day.

Ideal for a hearty and elegant midday meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet pie crust (gluten-free optional)
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 eggs
• ½ cup dairy-free cream
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• Sauté chicken and onion in olive oil until cooked and softened.
• Whisk eggs and cream, season with salt and pepper.
• Place pie crust in a tart pan and fill with chicken, onion, and egg mixture.
• Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and set.

This quiche is rich, hearty, and flavorful.

Chicken adds protein and substance.

Onions provide sweetness and depth.

Egg and cream create a creamy, satisfying texture.

A classic French lunch that is both elegant and filling.

Salade Lyonnaise with Chicken

This French salad is fresh, tangy, and protein-rich.

Grilled chicken breast is served over frisée lettuce with poached eggs, croutons, and a mustard vinaigrette.

The balance of textures and flavors creates a light yet satisfying lunch.

Perfect for a French-inspired midday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 4 cups frisée lettuce
• 2 poached eggs
• ¼ cup gluten-free croutons
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Season chicken with salt and pepper and grill 6–7 minutes per side.
• Whisk olive oil, mustard, and vinegar for vinaigrette.
• Toss lettuce with vinaigrette and top with sliced chicken, croutons, and poached eggs.
• Serve immediately.

This salad is fresh, vibrant, and satisfying.

Chicken provides protein and substance.

Frisée adds crispness and a slight bitterness.

Vinaigrette adds tangy, French-inspired flavor.

A light yet filling French-style lunch.

Chicken and Mushroom Vol-au-Vent

This French pastry is elegant, flaky, and flavorful.

Chicken breast and mushrooms are cooked in a creamy, dairy-free sauce and baked inside puff pastry shells.

The combination of textures and rich flavors makes it a sophisticated lunch option.

Perfect for a French-inspired midday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 sheet puff pastry (gluten-free optional)
• 2 tbsp dairy-free cream
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Sauté chicken and mushrooms in olive oil until cooked.
• Stir in dairy-free cream and season with salt and pepper.
• Fill puff pastry shells with chicken and mushroom mixture.
• Bake 10–12 minutes until pastry is golden.

This vol-au-vent is flaky, creamy, and satisfying.

Chicken provides protein and flavor.

Mushrooms add earthiness and depth.

Puff pastry creates a delicate, golden crust.

An elegant and sophisticated French lunch option.

Chicken and Ratatouille Galette

This galette is rustic, colorful, and savory.

A buttery, gluten-free crust holds roasted vegetables and seared chicken breast, seasoned with herbs and garlic.

The combination of flavors and textures makes a filling, French-inspired lunch.

Perfect for a casual yet elegant midday meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 small zucchini, sliced
• 1 small eggplant, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 gluten-free pie crust
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Roast vegetables with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
• Sear chicken until cooked through.
• Place chicken and roasted vegetables on pie crust, fold edges to form a galette.
• Bake 15 minutes until crust is golden.

This galette is rustic, flavorful, and filling.

Chicken adds protein and richness.

Roasted vegetables provide sweetness, color, and nutrition.

Herbs enhance natural French flavors.

A rustic French lunch perfect for an elegant yet casual meal.