Name: Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup Fisher Pecans; ⅔ cup Panko Breadcrumbs; 1¼ tsp paprika; ¾ tsp garlic powder; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2½ tbsp dijon mustard; 2½ tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tbsp honey; 4 chicken breasts

This honey mustard pecan crusted chicken recipe combines the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with the tangy sweetness of honey mustard. It's a delightful twist on classic baked chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Photos of Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in your pantry. For instance, panko breadcrumbs are a Japanese-style breadcrumb that provides extra crispiness. Dijon mustard offers a distinct, sharp flavor. If you don't usually stock pecans, they can be found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets.

Ingredients for Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

Fisher pecans: These add a rich, buttery flavor and a crunchy texture to the crust.

Panko breadcrumbs: A Japanese-style breadcrumb that is lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs.

Paprika: Adds a mild, smoky flavor and a vibrant red color to the dish.

Garlic powder: Provides a subtle depth of flavor without the need for fresh garlic.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and aroma.

Dijon mustard: A tangy, slightly spicy mustard that pairs well with honey.

Mayonnaise: Helps to bind the ingredients together and adds moisture.

Honey: Brings a natural sweetness that balances the mustard's tanginess.

Chicken breasts: The main protein, providing a lean and tender base for the crust.

One reader, Ianthe Herrmann says:

This honey mustard pecan crusted chicken recipe is a game-changer! The chicken is incredibly juicy, and the pecan crust adds a delightful crunch. The honey mustard sauce perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. A must-try for any dinner!

Ianthe Herrmann

Techniques for Making Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

Yes.

How to pound chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness.

How to dab dry with paper towels: Use paper towels to gently pat the chicken breasts dry, removing any excess moisture.

How to brush with honey mustard mixture: Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the chicken with the honey mustard mixture.

How to press to coat: Firmly press the chicken into the pecan and breadcrumb mixture to ensure it adheres well.

How to tent with foil: If the pecans are browning too quickly, loosely cover the chicken with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the chicken to continue cooking.

How To Make Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

Grab a bite of these succulent baked pecan crusted chicken, made flavorful with a tangy-sweet sauce to top, for a crunchy and tasty dinner meal!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¾cupFisher Pecans,finely chopped
⅔cuppanko breadcrumbs
1¼tsppaprika
¾tspgarlic powder
salt and freshly ground black pepper
2½tbspdijon mustard,divided
2½tbspmayonnaise,divided
2tbsphoney,divided
4chicken breasts,(7 oz), boneless skinless

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line an 18×13-inch baking sheet with foil, place an oven-safe cooling rack over on baking sheet and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Set aside.
In a shallow dish, toss together the pecans, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and season with pepper to taste.
In a small mixing bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise, and ½ tablespoon of honey.
Pound the chicken to even the thickness. Dab dry with paper towels, then brush the top side of the chicken with honey mustard mixture and season with salt.
Transfer one piece of chicken to panko mixture, honey mustard side down, press firmly to get the mixture to adhere on the bottom.
Brush the top side of the chicken piece with honey mustard mixture, season with salt, then turn the chicken, and press to coat. Turn and press again on each side to coat well.
Transfer the coated chicken to wire rack, repeat process with remaining pieces of chicken, leaving space between them on the rack. Add any extra pecan mixture to the tops of the chicken and press down evenly.
Bake the chicken for about 20 to 25 minutes until cooked through, and the center should register 165 degrees F. If the pecans are browning too quickly during baking, then tent the chicken with foil.
In a clean small mixing bowl, stir together the remaining 1½ dijon mustard, 1½ tablespoon of mayonnaise, and 1½ tablespoon of honey.
Drizzle the chicken with the honey mustard mixture and serve warm. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 568.45kcal
Fat: 37.17g
Saturated Fat: 6.86g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.73g
Carbohydrates: 20.05g
Fiber: 2.99g
Sugar: 9.86g
Protein: 39.60g
Cholesterol: 114.88mg
Sodium: 543.72mg
Calcium: 63.37mg
Potassium: 511.82mg
Iron: 2.32mg
Vitamin A: 60.69µg
Vitamin C: 0.30mg

Crucial Technique for Perfect Honey Mustard Chicken

To ensure an even coating of the pecan and panko mixture on the chicken, press firmly and turn the chicken multiple times in the mixture. This helps the crust adhere better and creates a more uniform, crispy texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the pecans, breadcrumbs, and spices ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-cut chicken: Purchase chicken breasts that are already pounded to an even thickness to save time.

Make extra honey mustard: Prepare a larger batch of the honey mustard mixture and store it in the fridge for future use.

Line and spray the rack: Line the baking sheet and spray the rack with non-stick spray before starting to avoid interruptions.

Preheat the oven early: Turn on the oven before you begin prepping to ensure it’s ready when you are.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken Recipe

fisher pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar texture and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative for the crust.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can provide a similar crispy texture, though they might be slightly less airy.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a similar flavor with an extra smoky depth, enhancing the overall taste.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar savory note, though it will have a slightly different flavor profile.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the dish's complexity.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar peppery heat but with a slightly different flavor, often described as more earthy.
dijon mustard - Substitute with yellow mustard: Yellow mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor, though it is slightly milder and less complex.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can offer a similar creamy texture with a tangy flavor, and it is a healthier alternative.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness with a slightly different flavor profile, adding a unique twist to the dish.
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor, making them a suitable alternative for this recipe.

Presenting Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the chicken breasts into medallions to create elegant, bite-sized pieces. This allows for a refined presentation and ensures each piece is perfectly coated with the pecan crust.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a drizzle of the remaining honey mustard sauce in an artistic pattern. Add a few whole pecans and a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and texture.
Elevate the plating: Place the chicken medallions on a bed of lightly dressed mixed greens. This not only adds a fresh element to the dish but also provides a beautiful contrast in color.
Add complementary sides: Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy mashed potato. Arrange these sides neatly on the plate to enhance the overall presentation.
Use high-quality plates: Choose a sleek, white plate to make the colors of the chicken and garnishes stand out. The simplicity of the plate will allow the dish to shine.
Focus on symmetry: Arrange the chicken medallions in a symmetrical pattern on the plate. This creates a visually appealing presentation that is pleasing to the eye.
Incorporate height: Stack the chicken medallions slightly to add dimension to the plate. This technique adds a professional touch and makes the dish look more dynamic.
Finish with a touch of elegance: Lightly dust the edge of the plate with a pinch of paprika or black pepper to add a final touch of sophistication.

Essential Tools for Making Pecan Crusted Chicken

Oven: Used to bake the chicken at 425 degrees F until it is cooked through.
Baking sheet: Lined with foil and used to hold the chicken while it bakes.
Foil: Used to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to tent the chicken if the pecans brown too quickly.
Oven-safe cooling rack: Placed on the baking sheet to elevate the chicken, allowing air to circulate and ensuring even cooking.
Non-stick cooking spray: Sprayed on the cooling rack to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Shallow dish: Used to mix the pecans, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper.
Small mixing bowl: Used to mix the honey mustard sauce.
Meat pounder: Used to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
Paper towels: Used to dab the chicken breasts dry before coating them with the honey mustard mixture.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and honey.
Instant-read thermometer: Used to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Basting brush: Used to brush the honey mustard mixture onto the chicken breasts.

Storing and Freezing Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

Let the honey mustard pecan crusted chicken cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken:
- Wrap each piece of cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label the bag or container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen honey mustard pecan crusted chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the chicken from the freezer and unwrap it.
- Place the frozen chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For best results, brush the chicken with a fresh layer of the honey mustard mixture before reheating to help restore the flavor and keep the chicken moist.
Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen chicken in the microwave:
- Place the unwrapped chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave's power.
Note: The pecan crust may not be as crispy after freezing and reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey Mustard Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover honey mustard pecan crusted chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the coating is crispy. This method helps maintain the crunchiness of the pecan crust while evenly reheating the chicken.
For a quicker option, use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the crust is crisp. This method is ideal for smaller portions and helps maintain the texture of the pecan coating.
If you prefer a moister reheated chicken, wrap the leftover pieces in aluminum foil before placing them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. The foil will help trap the moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out. Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly warmed. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to help crisp up the pecan crust.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth to the pan and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is steamed through and the coating is slightly softened. Remove the lid and continue to heat for an additional 1-2 minutes to help crisp up the pecan crust.
Avoid using the microwave to reheat the honey mustard pecan crusted chicken, as it can lead to a soggy coating and unevenly heated meat. However, if the microwave is your only option, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals at 50% power until warmed through. To help crisp up the coating, place the microwaved chicken under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes after microwaving.

Interesting Fact About Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

A fun fact about this honey mustard pecan crusted chicken recipe is that the pecans not only add a delightful crunch but also provide a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. This makes the dish not only tasty but also nutritious.

Is Making Pecan Crusted Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

The honey mustard pecan crusted chicken recipe is relatively cost-effective. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, pecans, and panko breadcrumbs are affordable and widely available. The use of pantry staples like dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and honey further enhances its value. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD.

Is This Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe Healthy?

The honey mustard pecan crusted chicken recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that offers some nutritional benefits, but it also has some aspects that could be improved to make it healthier. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's health factors:

Positives:

Chicken breast is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair
Pecans are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, which can support heart health and reduce inflammation
Dijon mustard and honey provide flavor without adding excessive calories or unhealthy fats

Negatives:

The recipe uses mayonnaise, which is high in saturated fat and calories
Panko breadcrumbs are refined carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients than whole-grain alternatives
The dish is relatively high in calories due to the pecan and breadcrumb coating

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which is lower in fat and higher in protein
Use whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular panko to increase fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of honey used in the recipe to lower the overall sugar content
Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the meal and provide additional vitamins and minerals
Use a cooking spray instead of butter or oil to reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavor of honey mustard pecan crusted chicken while also supporting your overall health and well-being.

Editor's Opinion on This Honey Mustard Chicken Dish

This honey mustard pecan crusted chicken recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of crunchy pecans and panko breadcrumbs provides a satisfying crust, while the honey mustard mixture adds a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. The use of a wire rack ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior. The final drizzle of honey mustard sauce enhances the dish, making it both visually appealing and delicious. Overall, this recipe is well-constructed and offers a gourmet touch to a classic chicken dish.

Enhance Your Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the brussels sprouts caramelizing to perfection, their natural sweetness enhanced by a rich balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts beautifully contrasts with the honey mustard pecan crusted chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Picture a creamy, velvety bed of mashed potatoes, infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. This comforting side dish provides a perfect, buttery counterpoint to the crunch and tang of the pecan crusted chicken, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Cranberry Apple Salad: Envision a refreshing salad bursting with the crispness of apples and the tartness of cranberries. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this vibrant dish adds a fruity zing that complements the savory and sweet notes of the honey mustard chicken.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a silky butternut squash soup, its rich, earthy flavors enhanced by a hint of nutmeg. This comforting bowl of goodness pairs wonderfully with the pecan crusted chicken, offering a cozy, autumnal vibe to your meal.

Parmesan Asparagus: Visualize tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and sprinkled with a generous amount of parmesan cheese. The slight crunch and savory notes of the parmesan elevate the chicken, adding a layer of sophistication to your dining experience.

Similar Recipes to Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken

Maple Walnut Crusted Salmon: Dive into a delightful blend of salmon fillets coated with a crunchy walnut and panko crust, sweetened with a touch of maple syrup. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted asparagus and lemon wedges.

Parmesan Herb Crusted Chicken: Experience the savory goodness of chicken breasts encrusted with a mix of parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and breadcrumbs. Serve with a fresh Caesar salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Pistachio Crusted Pork Chops: Savor the unique flavor of pork chops coated in a crunchy pistachio and panko mixture. Complement this dish with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts and mashed sweet potatoes.

Almond Crusted Tilapia: Enjoy the light and flaky tilapia fillets with a crispy almond and panko crust. This dish is perfect with a side of steamed broccoli and wild rice pilaf.

Coconut Crusted Shrimp: Indulge in succulent shrimp coated in a sweet and crunchy coconut and panko crust. Serve with a tangy mango salsa and coconut rice for a tropical twist.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Honey Mustard Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory Stuffed Mushrooms. Each mushroom cap is filled with a delectable blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan and breadcrumbs. Baked to golden perfection, these bite-sized treats offer a creamy, flavorful explosion in every bite. Perfect for any gathering, they are sure to impress with their rich taste and elegant presentation.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with this classic Bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar, then spooned onto toasted baguette slices. The result is a vibrant, refreshing appetizer that bursts with flavor. Ideal for summer gatherings, this dish is both simple and sophisticated, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of this decadent treat. The velvety chocolate oozes out as you cut into the warm cake, creating a perfect harmony of textures. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the intense flavors. A sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries add a touch of elegance, making it an ideal finish to your meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty delight of this classic dessert. The tangy lemon curd is perfectly complemented by a fluffy meringue topping, which is lightly browned to perfection. The buttery crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the citrus notes provide a refreshing contrast. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your dinner.

Why trust this Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken Recipe:

This honey mustard pecan crusted chicken recipe is a must-try for its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The pecans and panko breadcrumbs create a crunchy crust, while the honey mustard mixture adds a delightful sweetness and tang. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, this recipe ensures a delicious and impressive meal. Trust in the combination of dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and honey to elevate your chicken breasts to a gourmet level. Enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home!

If you've tried this delicious Honey Mustard Pecan Crusted Chicken recipe, we'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Join the discussion in our Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out.

FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165 degrees F. If you don't have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crispier texture. If you only have regular breadcrumbs, they will still work fine.

What can I use as a substitute for Dijon mustard?

If you don't have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard or even spicy brown mustard. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can coat the chicken with the pecan mixture and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before putting it in the oven.

What side dishes go well with this chicken?

I love serving this chicken with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs well with rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.