If you’re looking for a unique and delicious way to enjoy chicken, our Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken recipe is a must-try! Combining the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the rich, nutty flavor of pecans, this dish is not only a delight to the taste buds but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe is sure to impress.
Origins of Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken
This recipe is a fusion of Southern comfort food and Canadian flavors. Pecans are a staple in Southern cuisine, often used in pies and pralines, while maple syrup is a quintessential Canadian ingredient. Together, they create a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that perfectly complements tender chicken. The result is a comforting and sophisticated dish, making it ideal for family dinners or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken.
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Maple Dijon Sauce:
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions to create this delicious dish.
Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow bowl, mix the chopped pecans and breadcrumbs. This mixture will give your chicken a crunchy and flavorful crust.
- Make the Maple Mixture:
- In another bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. This mixture will help the pecan coating adhere to the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Brush each chicken breast with the maple mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated. Then, press the chicken breasts into the pecan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. This step helps create a crust on the chicken.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Preparing the Maple Dijon Sauce
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a small saucepan, combine the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. Stir well to blend the flavors.
- Heat the Sauce:
- Place the saucepan over low heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is warmed through. Be careful not to boil the sauce.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the maple Dijon sauce over the baked chicken breasts just before serving. The sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture to the dish.
Tips and Variations
- Is pecan good for chicken? Pecans are an excellent choice for chicken because they add a rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch. Plus, they pair beautifully with the sweetness of maple syrup.
- How do you get crust on a chicken? For a perfect crust, make sure the chicken is well-coated with the maple mixture before pressing it into the pecan and breadcrumb mixture. Searing the chicken in a skillet before baking also helps create a crispy crust.
- How to make chicken very soft and tender? To keep your chicken tender, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to just 165°F (74°C). Marinating the chicken in the maple mixture also helps to tenderize the meat.
Variations
- Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Pecan Crusted Chicken Mayonnaise: Add a tablespoon of mayonnaise to the maple mixture for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Pecan Crusted Chicken Breasts with Maple Dijon Sauce: For an extra burst of flavor, try serving the chicken with additional sauce on the side.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic overview of the nutritional content per serving (based on one chicken breast):
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 10 g
Our Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and promises a delicious outcome.
Try this recipe today and experience the unique combination of sweet maple syrup and crunchy pecans. Don’t forget to leave a comment below with your thoughts and share this recipe with friends and family on social media. If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out other chicken recipes on EasyCrispyRecipes.com and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious ideas.