Bourbon-Pecan Chicken Recipe

This Bourbon-Pecan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the classic flavors of pecan-crusted chicken with a unique and savory bourbon sauce. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy pecan crust, drizzled with a rich and flavorful sauce, and garnished with fresh scallions. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Elegant: The combination of crunchy pecans, savory spices, and a sweet and savory bourbon sauce creates a delicious and sophisticated flavor profile that will impress your guests.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks. It requires minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps.
• Versatile: Serve this Bourbon-Pecan Chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. It’s also great for meal prepping or using the leftover chicken in sandwiches and wraps.
• Quick and Convenient: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time but still crave a delicious and satisfying meal.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe.
• Egg: Used to help the pecan crust adhere to the chicken.
• Milk: Combined with the egg to create an egg wash.
• Pecans: Very finely chopped and adds a crunchy and nutty flavor to the crust.
• Fine dry breadcrumbs: Adds structure to the crust and helps create a crispy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the crust.
• Olive oil: Used to pan-fry the chicken.
• Brown sugar: Adds sweetness to the bourbon sauce.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the sauce.
• Bourbon whiskey: Adds a unique depth of flavor to the sauce.
• Low sodium soy sauce: Provides a salty and umami flavor to the sauce.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex umami flavor to the sauce.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth and velvety sauce.
• Scallions: Diced and adds a fresh onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Bourbon-Pecan Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. In another shallow bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, breadcrumbs, and salt.

Step 2: Pound the Chicken

Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of a little more than ¾-inch. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and quickly.

Step 3: Coat and Cook the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast in the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, press both sides of the chicken into the pecan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Warm the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Make the Bourbon Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, bourbon, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat, then remove from the heat and whisk in the butter cubes until melted and combined.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Drizzle the bourbon sauce generously over the chicken and garnish with diced scallions. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality chicken breasts.
• Pound the chicken evenly: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks evenly and quickly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
• Use a meat thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Make ahead: You can bread the chicken cutlets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How to Serve

This Bourbon-Pecan Chicken is delicious with a variety of sides:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing for this dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and colorful touch.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bourbon-Pecan Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and forgiving than chicken breasts, so they’re a great option for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use a different type of nut for the crust?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans.

3. Can I make this recipe without the bourbon sauce?
Yes, you can! The bourbon sauce adds a delicious depth of flavor, but the chicken is still delicious with just the pecan crust.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the chicken or sauce?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.

This Bourbon-Pecan Chicken Recipe is a simple, flavorful, and elegant way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. With its easy preparation, versatile serving options, and unique bourbon sauce, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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