Pecan Crusted Chicken with Maple Dijon Sauce – A Crunchy & Sweet Delight 🐔🥜🍁
This Pecan Crusted Chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and served with a rich, tangy-sweet Maple Dijon Sauce that ties it all together. A perfect weeknight dinner or upscale entrée that’s packed with texture and bold flavor. 💚
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Recipe 💚
- ✅ Crunchy & Flavorful: Toasted pecans give the crust irresistible texture and nutty richness.
- ✅ Sweet & Tangy Sauce: The maple Dijon glaze brings gourmet flair with pantry ingredients.
- ✅ Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, no deep frying needed.
- ✅ Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or GF breadcrumbs for a gluten-friendly twist.
🥜 Pecan Crusted Chicken with Maple Dijon Sauce
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🐔
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped 🥜
- ½ cup panko or breadcrumbs (or almond flour for GF) 🌾
- ½ tsp garlic powder + ½ tsp smoked paprika 🌿
- Salt & pepper to taste 🧂
- 2 eggs, beaten 🥚
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (for coating) 🌿
- Olive oil spray or 2 tbsp for pan searing 🫒
- For the Maple Dijon Sauce:
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup 🍁
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard 🌿
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 🍎
- Pinch of salt & pepper 🧂
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven:
Set to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil. - Prep the coating:
In a bowl, combine chopped pecans, panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. - Coat the chicken:
Pat chicken dry. Lightly coat each piece with Dijon mustard, then dip in egg, then dredge in pecan mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. - Sear and bake:
(Optional) Sear chicken in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side to get a golden crust. Then transfer to baking sheet. - Bake:
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). - Make the sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Serve drizzled over the chicken or on the side for dipping. 🐔🍁
💡 Tips & Flavor Variations
- ✨ Use chicken tenders: Great for finger foods or faster cooking.
- ✨ Add herbs: Mix rosemary or thyme into the pecan crust.
- ✨ Want it spicy? Add chili flakes to the sauce or cayenne to the crust.
- ✨ Make it dairy-free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free when breadcrumbs are used.
🌿 Nutritional Highlights
Pecans provide heart-healthy fats and fiber, while the chicken delivers lean protein. Maple syrup keeps the sauce natural and refined sugar-free. A feel-good indulgence with balance.
🧊 Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- ✅ Make-ahead: Bread chicken and refrigerate up to 12 hours before baking.
- ✅ Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- ✅ Reheat: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crunch—avoid microwaving.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts?
Yes—walnuts or almonds also work well, but pecans offer a sweeter, buttery flavor perfect with maple.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
You can freeze uncooked breaded chicken for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes.
Can I air fry this recipe?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Crispy, Sweet & So Satisfying 💚
This Pecan Crusted Chicken with Maple Dijon Sauce is sweet, crunchy, and elevated comfort food at its finest. 🥜💬 Pin it now and share your version with us on Pinterest!
