Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken recipe

Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken. It’s a delightful balance of sweet and savory, featuring tender chicken coated in a crisp pecan crust. A hint of maple syrup and fresh ginger infuses each bite with rich, autumnal warmth.

The Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, and smoked paprika add depth, while the lemon zest brings a bright, tangy finish. Baked to golden perfection, this dish combines effortless preparation with gourmet flavor, making it ideal for busy evenings.

Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. This Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken is sure to impress your taste buds and dinner guests alike.

Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken: Ingredients

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The tender canvas for this dish, soaking up the rich marinade and creating the perfect base for the pecan crust.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness, balancing the savory notes and giving the crust a caramelized finish.
• Dijon Mustard: Offers a tangy, spicy depth, enhancing the complexity of flavors and complementing the maple’s sweetness.
• Fresh Thyme: Brings an aromatic, earthy freshness that pairs beautifully with the warmth of the maple and pecans.
• Raw Pecans: The star of the crust, lending a buttery crunch that elevates the dish to gourmet status.

Recipe Tips

1. Maximize Flavor with Marinating: For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate in the ginger, garlic, lemon, and mustard mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This extra time helps the meat absorb the bold, zesty flavors, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful bite. If you have time, marinate it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring the chicken to room temperature before pressing it into the pecans and baking, which ensures even cooking.
2. Perfecting the Pecan Crust: To achieve a well-adhered, golden pecan crust, ensure that the chicken is lightly pressed into the chopped pecans. Be gentle but firm enough for the nuts to stick, covering one side of each piece evenly. Preheating the skillet in the oven is crucial for a sear that locks in the juices and sets the nutty coating quickly, preventing it from slipping off during baking. This technique guarantees a crispy crust without overcooking the chicken.
3. Checking for Doneness: Using an instant-read thermometer is the most reliable way to check when your chicken is fully cooked without drying it out. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This method helps avoid guesswork, ensuring the meat remains tender and juicy. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when you slice into the chicken, with no pink remaining inside.

What to Serve with Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken

1. Roasted Root Vegetables: Serve this maple pecan crusted chicken alongside a medley of roasted root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips. The caramelized edges and earthy flavors of the vegetables complement the sweet maple notes in the chicken while adding a comforting, hearty side dish.
2. Arugula and Apple Salad: A fresh, crisp arugula salad with thinly sliced apples, dried cranberries, and a light lemon vinaigrette balances the rich, nutty chicken with a touch of tartness. The peppery bite of arugula and the sweetness of apples make for a refreshing contrast to the savory main dish.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs wonderfully with this dish. The smooth texture and rich flavor of the potatoes soak up the reserved ginger sauce and make each bite indulgent. Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme to tie the flavors together.

FAQ

1. Can I use other types of nuts for the crust?
   Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts instead of pecans. Just be sure to chop them finely so they adhere well to the chicken. Each nut offers a slightly different flavor, adding a unique twist to the recipe.
2. How do I store leftover Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispness of the pecan crust.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check that your Dijon mustard and other ingredients are gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives. This makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
4. What if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?
   If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, you can transfer the chicken to a baking dish after pressing the pecans into it. Preheat the baking dish in the oven as you would the skillet, and bake as directed.

Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken

The Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, and smoked paprika add depth, while the lemon zest brings a bright, tangy finish. Baked to golden perfection, this dish combines effortless preparation with gourmet flavor, making it ideal for busy evenings.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 29 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 5

Ingredients

  

• 2 6- to 8-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2/3 cup finely chopped raw pecans
• 1 1/2-inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
• 4 cloves garlic finely grated
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped, plus extra for garnish
• 1 lemon zested and halved
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil divided
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Step 1
• Position an oven rack in the center and preheat the oven to 400°F. Place a large, ovenproof skillet on the rack to heat along with the oven.
• Step 2
• In a spacious bowl, blend the grated ginger, garlic, lemon zest, juice from half of the lemon, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, chopped thyme, smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Set aside 1/4 cup of this ginger mixture in a separate small bowl, cover, and chill until needed.
• Step 3
• Pat the chicken breasts dry and slice each one lengthwise, yielding four pieces in total. Season the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the chicken to the large bowl containing the remaining ginger mixture, tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
• Step 4
• Carefully remove the preheated skillet from the oven using an oven mitt, and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the chopped pecans in a shallow dish, such as a pie plate. Press one side of each chicken piece into the pecans, pressing gently to ensure they adhere. Lay the pecan-coated chicken pieces in the hot skillet with the coated side facing up. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
• Step 5
• Bake the chicken in the oven until fully cooked, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reaches 165°F, approximately 15 to 17 minutes.
• Step 6
• Drizzle the reserved ginger mixture over the baked chicken and sprinkle with additional thyme. Slice the remaining lemon half into wedges and serve alongside for a bright, citrusy finish.

Keyword Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken