Pecan Crusted Chicken

Want to make your chicken dinner extra special? Add pecans! This Easy Pecan Crusted Chicken combines the warm aroma of toasted nuts and spices with a golden, crunchy coating, to make a delicious comforting treat! Better still it is super simple to make and feels a little fancy without the extra stress. Perfect for date nights, family gatherings… or just when you want to make chicken exciting again!

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If you find yourself wanting a meal that sounds crisp before you even take a bite, I highly recommend making this easy peasy Pecan Crusted Chicken.

Pecan Crusted Chicken combines the warm aroma of toasted nuts and spices with a golden, crunchy coating and juicy interior, to make a delicious comforting treat!

Perfect for date nights, family gatherings… or just when you want to make chicken exciting again!

Better still it is super simple to make and brings just a hint of sweetness that keeps every bite interesting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe balances crunch, flavor, and ease in the best way.

Crispy coating: Pecans and panko give serious texture.

Juicy chicken: The inside stays tender and moist.

Sweet and savory combo: Honey and mustard play perfectly together.

Simple prep: Easy steps with everyday ingredients.

Oven friendly: No frying mess needed.

Dinner upgrade: Feels fancy but stays relaxed.

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Ingredients

For the Pecan Crust:

• 1 cup pecans
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 large eggs

For the Honey Mustard Coating:

• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar

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Step by Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by heating the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This helps the crust crisp up while keeping cleanup easy.

2. Make the Pecan Crust

Add pecans to a food processor and pulse until finely chopped but not powdery. Transfer them to a bowl and mix with panko, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well so the seasoning spreads evenly.

3. Mix the Honey Mustard

In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and white vinegar. The mixture should look smooth and slightly thick with a sweet tangy smell.

4. Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.

5. Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the egg, letting the excess drip off. Next, brush or spoon the honey mustard mixture over both sides. Press the chicken firmly into the pecan mixture so the crust sticks well.

6. Arrange and Bake

Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each piece so heat circulates. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until the crust turns golden and the chicken cooks through.

7. Rest Before Serving

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This keeps the juices inside and helps the crust stay intact.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Toast the pecans lightly for deeper flavor.
• Add cayenne for gentle heat.
• Swap honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness.
• Use an air fryer for extra crisp texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pecan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or green beans work perfectly with the nutty coating.

For a lighter plate, serve it over a fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette. When guests come over, I slice the chicken and serve it on a platter so everyone can grab a piece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes coat the chicken and refrigerate for up to 8 hours.

Does this work with pork?

Yes pork chops work great with the same coating.

Can I pan cook this?

Yes cook on medium heat and finish in the oven.

How do I know it’s done?

The inside should reach 165°F.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes freeze cooked chicken for up to two months.

What sauce goes well with it?

Extra honey mustard or a light cream sauce works nicely.

Final Thoughts

Pecan Crusted Chicken brings crunch, flavor, and comfort to the table without much effort. The nutty coating, sweet tangy glaze, and juicy chicken come together in a way that feels satisfying every time.

This recipe works for busy nights, relaxed weekends, or anytime you want chicken to feel a little special without turning cooking into a chore.