Mary’s Pecan Crusted Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic breaded chicken recipe, combining the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with tender chicken breasts for an irresistible meal. This dish brings a touch of Southern charm to your dining table, as pecans are a staple in Southern cooking. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pecan chicken recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Pecans: 1 cup, finely chopped
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Flour: 1/2 cup
- Eggs: 2 large
- Milk: 1/4 cup
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for frying)
- Honey: 2 tablespoons (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Setting Up the Coating Station
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the finely chopped pecans and breadcrumbs. In a separate dish, place the flour. In a third dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
Coating the Chicken
- Dredge the Chicken: First, coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully covered. Finally, press it into the pecan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
Cooking the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Chicken: Add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Finishing Touches
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. If desired, drizzle with honey before serving for an added touch of sweetness.
Tips and Variations
Getting a Good Crust on Chicken
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- Press Firmly: Press the pecan coating firmly onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to prevent overcrowding in the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than searing.
Variations
- Coconut Pecan Crusted Chicken: Add shredded coconut to the pecan and breadcrumb mixture for a tropical twist.
- Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken: Mix a tablespoon of maple syrup and a splash of bourbon into the egg mixture for a rich, flavorful coating.
- Pecan Chicken Chinese Style: Incorporate Chinese five-spice powder into the pecan mixture for a fusion of flavors.
- Pecan Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard: Serve with a side of honey mustard sauce for dipping.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming four servings total):
- Calories: Approximately 450 calories
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 18 grams
- Fat: 30 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
How Many Calories Are in Pecan Crusted Chicken Breast?
The calories in pecan-crusted chicken can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used. On average, a serving contains about 450 calories, making it a satisfying and protein-rich meal option.
Mary’s Pecan Crusted Chicken is a versatile dish that brings together the nutty flavor of pecans with succulent chicken breasts for a meal that’s both satisfying and elegant. Whether you’re trying the classic version or experimenting with variations like Coconut Pecan Crusted Chicken or Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.