Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish like Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken. I remember the first time I prepared it for my family; the kitchen was filled with the warm, nutty aroma of toasted pecans mingling with the sweetness of honey and the tang of mustard. It was a moment of pure culinary joy as I watched their eyes light up with anticipation. This dish transformed an ordinary evening into a special occasion, and I can assure you it will do the same for you. The texture is just sublime, with a crunchy pecan crust enveloping tender, juicy chicken. It’s a delightful way to elevate a simple meal into something extraordinary.

Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken Ingredients

When it comes to the ingredients for Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken, each plays a vital role in crafting the final dish. The rich, nutty pecans provide texture and flavor, while the dijon mustard and honey combine to form a luscious glaze that elevates the dish. The chicken serves as the hearty base, ensuring that you have a filling meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3/4 cup Fisher Pecans, finely chopped
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 1/4 tsp paprika
• 3/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 1/2 Tbsp dijon mustard, divided
• 2 1/2 Tbsp mayonnaise, divided
• 2 Tbsp honey, divided
• 4 (6 – 7 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts

How to Assemble Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

Assembling the Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken is an enjoyable process that allows you to get your hands a little gooey and your kitchen full of delightful aromas. I find joy in every step, from preheating the oven to the moment I take that first crispy bite. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide!

1. Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is crucial for achieving that golden crust. While the oven heats up, line a 18 by 13-inch baking sheet with foil and place an oven-safe cooling rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring a crisp finish. Lightly spray the rack with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. In a shallow dish, combine the finely chopped pecans, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will create a lovely, crunchy coating for the chicken.

3. Now, in a small mixing bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, and 1/2 tablespoon of honey. This honey mustard mixture is what gives the chicken its fabulous flavor.

4. Take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step ensures that they cook evenly. Once flattened, dab them dry with paper towels; moisture can prevent the coating from adhering properly.

5. Brush the top side of the chicken with the honey mustard mixture, then season with salt. This initial layer of flavor is key.

6. Carefully transfer one piece of chicken to the panko mixture, honey mustard side down. Press firmly to ensure the coating adheres well to the bottom. Then, brush the top side of the chicken with the remaining honey mustard mixture and season again with salt. Flip the chicken and press to coat both sides thoroughly. You want the chicken well-covered for that perfect crunch.

7. Transfer the coated chicken to the wire rack. Repeat this process with the remaining pieces, ensuring there’s space between each on the rack. If you have any extra pecan mixture left, sprinkle it over the tops of the chicken and press down gently. This gives an added crunch and flavor.

8. If you have olive oil cooking spray, you can spray the tops of the chicken. This step is optional but encourages a lovely golden color as it bakes.

9. Slide the chicken into the preheated oven and bake until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the pecans; if they start browning too quickly, tent the chicken with foil to prevent burning.

10. Meanwhile, in a clean small mixing bowl, stir together the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of dijon mustard, 1 1/2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, and 1 1/2 tablespoons of honey. This will act as a drizzle to add even more flavor when serving.

11. Once the chicken is done, drizzle it with the honey mustard mixture and serve warm. For a fresh touch, consider garnishing with chopped parsley.

Variations to Try

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen, and Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken is no exception. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Spice it up: If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick.
• Add herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor significantly. Simply mix them into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Try different nuts: While pecans are fantastic, experimenting with other nuts like almonds or walnuts can offer new textures and tastes.
• Honey alternatives: Swap out the honey for maple syrup for a different but equally delicious sweetness.
• Vegetarian twist: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or eggplant slices for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked, coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables to complement the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken, the options are as delightful as the dish itself. Here’s how to elevate your dining experience:

• Fresh salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad topped with citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted vegetables: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a colorful plate.
• Rice dishes: A side of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice can absorb the flavors beautifully.
• Occasional meals: This dish excels as a dinner option for family gatherings or special occasions like birthdays.
• Seasonal pairings: In summer, complement it with a light quinoa salad, while autumn calls for a warm apple and walnut salad.
• Leftover creativity: Use leftover chicken in wraps or sandwiches for a quick lunch option.
• Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add sophistication when plating.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken is a dish that stands out not just for its incredible taste but also for the memories it helps create. With its delightful crunch and perfect blend of flavors, it’s guaranteed to impress your family and friends. I encourage you to try making this recipe tonight—it’s simple, satisfying, and truly special. You won’t regret adding this to your regular dinner rotation!

Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken is a crispy, savory delight that will satisfy your cravings. With a crunchy pecan crust and a sweet, tangy glaze, this dish transforms an ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a quick and easy weeknight meal.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3/4 cup Fisher Pecans, finely chopped
• 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 1/4 tsp paprika
• 3/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 1/2 Tbsp dijon mustard, divided
• 2 1/2 Tbsp mayonnaise, divided
• 2 Tbsp honey, divided
• 4 (6 - 7 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is crucial for achieving that golden crust. While the oven heats up, line a 18 by 13-inch baking sheet with foil and place an oven-safe cooling rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring a crisp finish. Lightly spray the rack with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the finely chopped pecans, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will create a lovely, crunchy coating for the chicken.
3. Now, in a small mixing bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, and 1/2 tablespoon of honey. This honey mustard mixture is what gives the chicken its fabulous flavor.
4. Take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step ensures that they cook evenly. Once flattened, dab them dry with paper towels; moisture can prevent the coating from adhering properly.
5. Brush the top side of the chicken with the honey mustard mixture, then season with salt. This initial layer of flavor is key.
6. Carefully transfer one piece of chicken to the panko mixture, honey mustard side down. Press firmly to ensure the coating adheres well to the bottom. Then, brush the top side of the chicken with the remaining honey mustard mixture and season again with salt. Flip the chicken and press to coat both sides thoroughly. You want the chicken well-covered for that perfect crunch.
7. Transfer the coated chicken to the wire rack. Repeat this process with the remaining pieces, ensuring there’s space between each on the rack. If you have any extra pecan mixture left, sprinkle it over the tops of the chicken and press down gently. This gives an added crunch and flavor.
8. If you have olive oil cooking spray, you can spray the tops of the chicken. This step is optional but encourages a lovely golden color as it bakes.
9. Slide the chicken into the preheated oven and bake until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit, which usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the pecans; if they start browning too quickly, tent the chicken with foil to prevent burning.
10. Meanwhile, in a clean small mixing bowl, stir together the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of dijon mustard, 1 1/2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, and 1 1/2 tablespoons of honey. This will act as a drizzle to add even more flavor when serving.
11. Once the chicken is done, drizzle it with the honey mustard mixture and serve warm. For a fresh touch, consider garnishing with chopped parsley.

Notes

• Keep your pecans chunky: When chopping the pecans, aim for small pieces but avoid making them powdery. This ensures a nice crunch in the coating.
• Thickness matters: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures it cooks uniformly, preventing dry edges.
• Monitor browning: If the pecans brown too quickly, tent the chicken with foil during baking to protect the crust.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground pepper and paprika can make a big difference in enhancing the overall flavor profile.

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Meet Adele Mercer

Every meal deserves a spectacular finish, whether it is a savory main or a sweet treat. I enjoy the entire creative cycle, from kneading dough to editing the final photos. I developed this recipe to be approachable for home cooks while ensuring it delivers the high-quality results you expect.