Looking for a deliciously healthy dinner that will wow your family and friends? Say hello to Clean Eating Pecan Crusted Chicken! This mouthwatering dish combines tender chicken breasts with a crunchy, nutty pecan crust, making it the perfect guilt-free indulgence. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy a wholesome meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them completely dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crispy crust.
- In a food processor or using a sharp knife, finely chop the pecans until they reach a breadcrumb-like consistency. Be careful not to over-process and create a paste.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, whole wheat breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- In a separate shallow bowl, beat the eggs until well combined and smooth.
- Dip each chicken breast first into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage, then immediately transfer to the pecan-breadcrumb mixture. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to create an even, thick crust.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices and allows the crust to set.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy weeknights, you can prepare the pecan-breadcrumb mixture and coat the chicken breasts in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.
- Perfectly Pat Dry: Make sure to pat the chicken breasts completely dry before coating them. This simple step ensures that the crust adheres better and results in a crispier finish.
- Chop with Care: When chopping the pecans, aim for a breadcrumb-like consistency. Over-processing can turn them into a paste, which won’t give you that delightful crunch.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
- Add Freshness: For an extra pop of flavor, garnish your chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon right before serving. It brightens up the dish beautifully!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 130mg
