How do I make honey mustard pecan crusted chicken crispy?

To get crispy honey mustard pecan crusted chicken, first pat the chicken dry before coating. Apply the honey mustard evenly, then press finely chopped pecans firmly onto the surface. Use a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil to sear the chicken crust for 3-4 minutes per side before finishing it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. This two-step cooking method helps create a golden, crunchy crust while keeping the chicken juicy.

What sides go best with honey mustard pecan crusted chicken?

Honey mustard pecan crusted chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots, which add color and nutrition without overpowering the flavors. Roasted potatoes or a light quinoa salad also complement the dish by adding texture and balance. For a fresh touch, consider serving it with a simple green salad tossed in a citrus vinaigrette to brighten the meal.

Can I prepare honey mustard pecan crusted chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare honey mustard pecan crusted chicken ahead by coating the chicken but waiting to cook it until just before serving. Store the coated chicken covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as usual. Avoid breading too far in advance to prevent sogginess. This makes it easier to manage meal prep and serve freshly cooked chicken.

Is honey mustard pecan crusted chicken gluten-free?

Honey mustard pecan crusted chicken can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free mustard and ensure the pecan coating does not include any wheat-based ingredients. Regular mustard and natural pecans are gluten-free, but always check labels. Omit breadcrumbs or use gluten-free alternatives if your recipe calls for them to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

How do I store and reheat leftover honey mustard pecan crusted chicken?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat while keeping the crust crispy, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the original dish.

Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken Recipe With Sweet Flavors

Name: Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans for the crunchy, nutty coating; – 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs to help create a crispy exterior; – 1 1/4 teaspoons paprika for added color and subtle spice; – 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder to infuse savory depth; – 2 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (divided) for the tangy base of the glaze; – 2 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise (divided) to add creaminess to the sauce; – 2 tablespoons honey (divided) for a touch of natural sweetness; – 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts weighing 6 to 7 ounces each as the main protein; – 3/4 teaspoon onion powder for extra flavor, if desired; – pecans; – walnuts; – panko; – standard or gluten-free breadcrumbs; – Dijon mustard; – yellow mustard

Description

🍯 Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken offers a delightful blend of sweet and nutty flavors, creating a crispy and flavorful crust.
🥜 This recipe provides a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it a crowd-pleasing main dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

– 3/4 cup finely chopped pecans for the crunchy, nutty coating

– 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs to help create a crispy exterior

– 1 1/4 teaspoons paprika for added color and subtle spice

– 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder to infuse savory depth

– 2 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (divided) for the tangy base of the glaze

– 2 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise (divided) to add creaminess to the sauce

– 2 tablespoons honey (divided) for a touch of natural sweetness

– 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts weighing 6 to 7 ounces each as the main protein

– 3/4 teaspoon onion powder for extra flavor, if desired

– pecans

– walnuts

– panko

– standard or gluten-free breadcrumbs

– Dijon mustard

– yellow mustard

Instructions

1-First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased for even cooking.

2-Combine the chopped pecans, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, mixing thoroughly to create the crust coating in a shallow bowl.

3-Brush each chicken breast generously with some of the Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and honey mixture for flavor and moisture.

4-Press each coated chicken breast into the pecan and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring the crust adheres well on all sides.

5-Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each chicken breast for 2-3 minutes on each side to lock in juices and create a crispy exterior.

6-Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7-Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute, then enjoy with your favorite sides.

Notes

🥄 Substitute walnuts for pecans for a different nutty flavor.
🍞 Use standard breadcrumbs if panko is unavailable.
🍯 Swap honey with real maple syrup for a unique sweetness variation.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: Honey Mustard Chicken, Pecan Crusted, Sweet and Nutty, Easy Dinner