Craving a satisfying and wholesome meal? This Pecan Crusted Oven-Fried Chicken Breast offers a delightful crunch and incredible flavor, making it a perfect addition to your collection of Healthy Chicken Breast Recipes. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare a dish that feels indulgent but fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also use chicken tenders.
- Pecans: Finely chop them yourself or buy pre-ground pecans. Walnuts make a good substitute.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crispiness. Gluten-free breadcrumbs work too.
- Eggs: Act as a binder. A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, let sit 5 mins) can be used as an egg substitute.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy depth. Yellow mustard can be used in a pinch.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spices:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, shallow dishes, meat mallet or rolling pin
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chicken Breasts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them to an even ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
2. Set Up Your Breading Stations
In one shallow dish, whisk the eggs with Dijon mustard until well combined. In a second shallow dish, mix the finely chopped pecans, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then, press it firmly into the pecan and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides.
4. Bake to Crispy Perfection
Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil or line with parchment paper. Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
5. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Enjoy this fantastic Healthy Chicken Breast Recipe!
Variation Ideas:
- Herbaceous Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or thyme to the pecan mixture.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper in your spice blend for some heat.
- Citrus Zest: Mix in 1 teaspoon of lemon zest with your breading for a bright flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Pecan Crusted Oven-Fried Chicken Breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. You want to avoid the microwave as it can make the crust soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
A: Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before pounding and coating. Pat them dry thoroughly.
Q: How do you know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The easiest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
Q: Can you prepare the chicken ahead of time?
A: You can pound and season the chicken a day in advance. It’s best to bread and bake just before serving for optimal crispiness.
Q: What sides pair well with this dish?
A: Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, a fresh garden salad, or quinoa are all excellent choices.
Q: Can you air fry this chicken?
A: Yes, you can air fry it at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs. This is one of many adaptable Healthy Chicken Breast Recipes.