Pecan Crusted Chicken

Whenever I think of cozy dinners that bring joy, Pecan Crusted Chicken immediately comes to mind. The first time I prepared this dish, I was hosting friends for a casual get-together, and I wanted something that felt special yet easy to make. As I coated the chicken with the crunchy, buttery pecan crust, I could already imagine the delighted expressions on my guests’ faces. This dish not only looks stunning on the plate but also delivers a flavor punch that resonates with everyone’s palate. It’s a fantastic way to showcase chicken while keeping things interesting with a unique twist. Trust me; this recipe will quickly become a go-to for any occasion.

What You Need for Pecan Crusted Chicken

When creating the perfect Pecan Crusted Chicken, the ingredients are essential to achieving that rich flavor and delightful crunch. Each one harmoniously combines to elevate this dish, making it not just a meal but an experience. The star players include the chicken, pecans, and Panko breadcrumbs, which work together to deliver a crunchy, flavorful crust that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

• 2 large eggs: These act as a binding agent, helping the pecan coating stick beautifully to the chicken.
• 1 cup pecan halves: The heart of this recipe, pecans provide a deliciously crunchy texture and rich flavor.
• ½ cup Panko bread crumbs: These contribute extra crunch to the coating, ensuring a satisfying bite.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: This herb adds a subtle depth of flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients while ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.
• ¼ teaspoon coarse black pepper: A hint of spice that balances the sweetness of the honey.
• 4 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The protein base of this dish, they remain juicy and tender when baked.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds moisture and richness to the dish, also aiding in achieving a golden crust.
• 1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt: Forms the base of the dipping sauce, making it creamy and tangy.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a sharp flavor that complements the honey perfectly.
• 1 ½ tablespoons grainy brown mustard: Provides texture and a more robust mustard flavor.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Brings a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall taste of the sauce.
• Pinch cayenne pepper: Just a hint of heat to elevate the dipping sauce.

Step by Step Guide for Pecan Crusted Chicken

Cooking Pecan Crusted Chicken is an enjoyable experience that results in a delicious meal. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress. Prepare to savor each step as you create this delightful dish!

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s essential to have your oven hot enough to achieve that perfect golden crust on the chicken. Placing a rack in the center allows for even cooking.
2. While the oven is heating, prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This not only prevents sticking but also makes for easy cleanup.
3. In a wide, shallow bowl or pie plate, lightly beat the eggs. This egg wash will help the coating stick to the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Take your pecan halves and pulse them in a food processor until finely ground. Be cautious not to over-process, or they’ll turn into pecan butter. Transfer the ground pecans to a sturdy zip-top bag.
5. To the bag of ground pecans, add the Panko breadcrumbs, dried basil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Seal the bag and shake it vigorously to combine all the ingredients.
6. Prepare the chicken breasts by placing them on a cutting board and covering them with plastic wrap. Using a meat tenderizer, rolling pin, or even your fist, pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps ensure that it cooks evenly.
7. One at a time, dip each flattened chicken breast into the egg wash. Make sure it’s well-coated, then place it into the zip-top bag with the pecan mixture. Seal the bag and shake to coat the chicken thoroughly, pressing the mixture onto the surface.
8. Once coated, lay the chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process for the remaining pieces.
9. Drizzle the olive oil over the tops of the coated chicken breasts. This helps to keep them moist while baking and contributes to the golden color.
10. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 160 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. I recommend removing it slightly early to allow for carryover cooking, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
11. While the chicken is baking, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, both types of mustard, honey, kosher salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
12. Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about five minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute for a tender bite. Serve the Pecan Crusted Chicken hot, alongside the dipping sauce, and enjoy!

Ways to Customize

This Pecan Crusted Chicken is not only delicious but also highly customizable. Here are some ways to make it your own:

• Storage: Refrigerate the leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy it later on!
• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or over a bed of whole grains like quinoa or couscous for a balanced meal.
• Variations: Experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to create your own version of this dish!
• Extra Flavor: Add spices to the coating, such as paprika or garlic powder, for an added kick!

Great Combinations for Pecan Crusted Chicken

Pairing your Pecan Crusted Chicken with delightful sides can turn a simple meal into a feast. Here are some fantastic options:

• Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or zucchini brings out their natural sweetness and adds color to your plate.
• Grains: Serve it over quinoa or couscous to make the meal more filling and nutritious. The subtle flavors of the grains enhance the dish.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep for lunch throughout the week.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, pair it with grilled corn on the cob or a refreshing fruit salad. In the cooler months, a side of mashed potatoes or a warm grain salad works well.

FAQ

Conclusion

Pecan Crusted Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines flavor, texture, and ease. This dish allows you to impress your guests while enjoying a healthy, hearty meal. I encourage you to give it a try! You won’t be disappointed with the results.

Pecan Crusted Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Pecan Crusted Chicken is a crispy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion! With its crunchy pecan coating and creamy honey mustard dip, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to impress your family and friends. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup pecan halves
• ½ cup Panko bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon coarse black pepper
• 4 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 ½ tablespoons grainy brown mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey (plus additional to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• Pinch cayenne pepper

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Baking Sheet
• Food Processor

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s essential to have your oven hot enough to achieve that perfect golden crust on the chicken. Placing a rack in the center allows for even cooking.
2. While the oven is heating, prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This not only prevents sticking but also makes for easy cleanup.
3. In a wide, shallow bowl or pie plate, lightly beat the eggs. This egg wash will help the coating stick to the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Take your pecan halves and pulse them in a food processor until finely ground. Be cautious not to over-process, or they’ll turn into pecan butter. Transfer the ground pecans to a sturdy zip-top bag.
5. To the bag of ground pecans, add the Panko breadcrumbs, dried basil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Seal the bag and shake it vigorously to combine all the ingredients.
6. Prepare the chicken breasts by placing them on a cutting board and covering them with plastic wrap. Using a meat tenderizer, rolling pin, or even your fist, pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps ensure that it cooks evenly.
7. One at a time, dip each flattened chicken breast into the egg wash. Make sure it’s well-coated, then place it into the zip-top bag with the pecan mixture. Seal the bag and shake to coat the chicken thoroughly, pressing the mixture onto the surface.
8. Once coated, lay the chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process for the remaining pieces.
9. Drizzle the olive oil over the tops of the coated chicken breasts. This helps to keep them moist while baking and contributes to the golden color.
10. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 160 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit. I recommend removing it slightly early to allow for carryover cooking, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
11. While the chicken is baking, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, both types of mustard, honey, kosher salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
12. Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about five minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute for a tender bite. Serve the Pecan Crusted Chicken hot, alongside the dipping sauce, and enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: Refrigerate the leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy it later on!
• Tip 2: You can freeze the chicken in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
• Tip 3: Serve this dish with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or over a bed of whole grains like quinoa or couscous for a balanced meal.
• Tip 4: Experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or almonds, to create your own version of this dish!
• Tip 5: Add spices to the coating, such as paprika or garlic powder, for an added kick!

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.