Pecan Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce is an irresistible dish that has transformed my weeknight dinners. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crunchy pecan and breadcrumb crust, baked to perfection. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful experience for the palate, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. With just the right amount of tang from the honey mustard sauce, your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Crusted Chicken with

This dish stands out for many reasons. First, it’s a healthy pecan chicken dinner that is both satisfying and nutritious. Second, it’s a pecan-encrusted chicken recipe that brings a delightful crunch to every bite. Third, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Fourth, the honey mustard sauce adds a sweet-tangy kick that perfectly complements the savory chicken. Moreover, it’s a baked chicken with pecan topping, so you can enjoy all the flavor without frying. Finally, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Enjoy this dish with confidence knowing it’s both delicious and wholesome!

Ingredients for Pecan Crusted Chicken with

Gather these items:

1 cup pecans
½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
2 large eggs
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons white vinegar

How to Make Pecan Crusted Chicken with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then place an oven-safe cooling rack on top and spray it lightly with cooking spray.
Step 2: In a food processor, combine the pecans, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few times until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Transfer this mixture into a large Ziploc bag.
Step 3: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover them with plastic wrap or parchment paper. Gently pound the breasts until they reach an even thickness of about ¼-inch.
Step 4: Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, then place it inside the Ziploc bag with the pecan breadcrumb mix. Seal the bag and shake gently to coat the chicken thoroughly. Remove the breast and place it on the prepared baking rack.
Step 5: Lightly spray the coated chicken breasts with cooking spray. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: While the chicken bakes, whisk together honey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and white vinegar in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
Step 7: Once the chicken is baked, drizzle the honey mustard sauce over each breast or serve it on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pecan Crusted Chicken with

Keep these in mind:

Ensure chicken is at room temperature before coating for even cooking.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For extra crunch, consider adding more pecans to the breadcrumb mixture.
Use fresh herbs in the pecan mixture for added flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Pecan Crusted Chicken with

Here are a few serving suggestions:

Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serve with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. A pecan chicken with honey glaze salad is a delightful option.
Offer a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting touch.

Pecan Crusted Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce Delight - Pecan Crusted Chicken with - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Pecan Crusted Chicken with

To store, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, to maintain that lovely crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Crusted Chicken with

What’s the secret to perfect Pecan Crusted Chicken with?

The secret lies in pounding the chicken to an even thickness and ensuring that the pecan coating is finely processed for maximum crunch. This method ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside.

Can I make Pecan Crusted Chicken with ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken breasts and coat them with the pecan mixture ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pecan Crusted Chicken with?

Common mistakes include not pounding the chicken to an even thickness and skipping the cooking spray before baking. Both lead to uneven cooking and loss of crunchiness. Always ensure your oven is preheated for best results!

Variations of Pecan Crusted Chicken with You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider these variations:

Try adding different herbs and spices to the pecan coating for a unique flavor.
Substitute the chicken with fish or tofu for a vegetarian option.
For a spicy kick, mix in some cayenne pepper with the pecans.

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Chicken Noodle Egg Drop Soup or Crockpot Butter Chicken. If you’re looking for healthy options, consider Healthy Protein Pop Tarts as a snack!

For more information on the health benefits of pecans, you can visit Healthline.