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Pecan crusted chicken served with roasted vegetables

Pecan Crusted Chicken

Enjoy a savory twist on a classic favorite with this Pecan Crusted Chicken. Juicy, tender chicken breasts are encrusted in a crunchy, nutty blend of toasted pecans, panko, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for elevating a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a casual gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course main dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet (lined with parchment paper or lightly greased)
  • Wire rack (optional, for extra crispiness)
  • Food processor or blender (to coarsely chop pecans)
  • 2 Shallow bowls (one for the egg wash and one for the pecan coating)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooking thermometer (to ensure proper doneness)
  • Tongs or spatula (for handling the chicken)

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken:
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6 oz each)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Egg Wash:
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  • Pecan Coating:
  • 1 cup pecans toasted
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs, if desired
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder optional
  • A pinch of salt and pepper
  • Finishing:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling over the chicken

Instructions
 

  • Preheat & Prepare:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. For a crisper finish, place a wire rack on the sheet.
  • Make the Egg Wash:
  • In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or heavy cream), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Prepare the Pecan Coating:
  • Place the toasted pecans in a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. (You want texture—not a fine powder.)
  • Transfer the chopped pecans to a second shallow bowl and stir in the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder (if using), and a little salt and pepper.
  • Season & Coat the Chicken:
  • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.
  • Immediately press the chicken into the pecan mixture, turning to coat both sides evenly. Press firmly so the crust adheres well.
  • Bake:
  • Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
  • Drizzle a light amount of olive oil over each piece to help with browning.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
  • Optional Broil:
  • For an extra-crispy crust, switch the oven to broil during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  • Rest & Serve:
  • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  • Serve hot with your favorite sides.
  • Details
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 40–45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish, Poultry
  • Method: Baking (with optional broiling for extra crispiness)
  • Cuisine: American / Southern-Inspired
  • Diet: High Protein; can be made gluten-free (use gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • Keywords
  • Pecan Crusted Chicken, Crispy Chicken, Nutty Chicken, Baked Chicken Recipe, Healthy Dinner, Easy Chicken Recipe, Southern Chicken
  • Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 6 oz with crust)
  • Calories: ~500 kcal
  • Sugar: ~3 g
  • Sodium: ~550 mg
  • Fat: ~30 g
  • Saturated Fat: ~8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~22 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~10 g
  • Fiber: ~2 g
  • Protein: ~45 g
  • Cholesterol: ~160 mg
  • Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements.

Notes

Toasting Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant—this enhances their flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Herb Variations: For added flavor, consider mixing in dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary with the pecan mixture.
Crispiness Tip: Allow the coated chicken to sit for a few minutes before baking so the crust adheres better.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Keyword Pecan Crusted Chicken, Crispy Chicken, Nutty Chicken, Baked Chicken Recipe, Healthy Dinner, Easy Chicken Recipe, Southern Chicken