Walnut Crusted Chicken Recipe

This walnut-crusted chicken recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The rich, nutty crust provides a satisfying crunch to the tender and moist chicken. The blend of dijon and honey mustard glaze enhances the flavor, making it a perfect dish to charm your dinner guests with.

Photos of Walnut Crusted Chicken Recipe

The key ingredient to pay special attention to is the walnuts. You'll need them finely chopped to give your chicken the right texture and crunch. Another important ingredient is dijon mustard, which adds a distinctly tangy flavor to the marinade and glaze. If you're not a regular buyer of these ingredients, you'll want to remember to pick them up from the supermarket.

Ingredients for the Walnut-Crusted Chicken

Chicken breasts: Lean, protein-rich meat that's perfect for a hearty meal.

Extra virgin olive oil: An essential cooking oil and flavor enhancer.

Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy and spicy flavor.

Dry white wine: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds depth of flavor.

Garlic cloves: Adds a savory touch to the dish.

Dried thyme: Aromatic herb that complements chicken.

Walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.

All purpose flour: Helps in creating a thick crust on the chicken.

Salt: Brings out the other flavors in the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat.

Fresh parsley: Gives a fresh, herbal note to the dish.

Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the mustard.

One reader, Gladi Braswell says:

This walnut-crusted chicken recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The crunchy walnut coating adds a delightful texture, and the honey mustard glaze is the perfect finishing touch. It's a hit with my family every time!

Gladi Braswell

Techniques Required for Making Walnut-Crusted Chicken

How to marinate the chicken: Combine the chicken, olive oil, mustard, white wine, garlic, and dried thyme in a large zipped-top bag or container. Seal shut and shake to combine. Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.

How to coat the chicken: Combine the walnuts, flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shake off excess, and dip both sides of the chicken in the walnut mixture, coating it well.

How to sear the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 2 minutes, 1 minute on each side.

How to make the honey mustard glaze: Whisk the honey and Dijon mustard together until well combined.

How to serve: Drizzle the honey mustard glaze over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How To Make Walnut Crusted Chicken

This delicious crusted chicken is marinated in white wine and herbs, coated with nuts, then paired with a honey mustard glaze, for a juicy and filling meal!

Preparation: 1 hour

Cooking: 30 minutes

Chill Time: 4 hours

Total: 5 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4large chicken breasts,boneless, skinless
⅓cupextra virgin olive oil,plus more for pan
¼cupDijon mustard
¼cupdry white wine,or chicken broth
3garlic cloves,minced
1tspdried thyme
1½cupswalnuts,finely diced
1cupall purpose flour,or whole wheat flour
1tspsalt
½tspfreshly ground black pepper
fresh parsley,for serving, optional

For Honey Mustard Glaze:

3tbspDijon mustard
⅓cuphoney

Instructions

Place the chicken, olive oil, mustard, white wine, garlic, and dried thyme in a large zipped-top bagger container. Seal shut, then give it a shake to combine.
Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
Combine the walnuts, flour, salt, and pepper together in a shallow dish. Remove the chicken, shake off a little excess marinade and dip both sides of the chicken in the walnut mixture, coating it well.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet. Add the chicken and sear for 2 minutes, 1 minute on each side.
Transfer skillet to the oven and bake, covered loosely with aluminum foil, for 15 to 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Whisk the honey and Dijon mustard together. Serve with chicken, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 777.05kcal
Fat: 40.38g
Saturated Fat: 8.49g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 22.21g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.22g
Carbohydrates: 50.60g
Fiber: 2.42g
Sugar: 23.77g
Protein: 50.22g
Cholesterol: 139.20mg
Sodium: 801.47mg
Calcium: 65.46mg
Potassium: 619.19mg
Iron: 4.39mg
Vitamin A: 68.56µg
Vitamin C: 5.63mg

Essential Technique Tip for Perfect Walnut-Crusted Chicken

When coating the chicken with the walnut mixture, press firmly to ensure the mixture adheres well to the chicken. This will create a more robust and flavorful crust. Also, remember to shake off the excess marinade before coating to prevent the mixture from becoming too wet and not sticking properly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Chicken Recipe

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

One-pan meal: Use an oven-safe skillet to sear and bake the chicken in the same dish, reducing clean-up time.

Efficient coating: Use a large zipped-top bag or container to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade.

Quick glaze: Prepare the honey mustard glaze while the chicken is baking to streamline the serving process.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen tools like a garlic press to expedite the preparation process.

Organized workspace: Set up all ingredients and tools in an organized manner to work efficiently.

Substitute Ingredients For Walnut Crusted Chicken Recipe

Walnuts - Substitute with Pecans: Pecans have a similar rich and buttery flavor to walnuts and will provide a delicious nutty crust for the chicken.
Dijon mustard - Substitute with Whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard has a similar tangy flavor and texture, which will work well in the marinade and glaze for the chicken.
Dry white wine - Substitute with Chicken or vegetable broth: Broth can provide a similar depth of flavor and moisture to the dish without the use of alcohol.
All purpose flour - Substitute with Almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative and will create a nuttier flavor and crunch in the crust.
Honey - Substitute with Maple syrup: Maple syrup can offer a similar sweetness and depth of flavor to the glaze for the chicken.

Best Way to Present Walnut-Crusted Chicken

Elevate the plating: When presenting the walnut-crusted chicken, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add vibrant colors and delicate textures to the dish.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a contrast of textures by adding a side of crispy kale chips or roasted root vegetables to complement the tender and crunchy elements of the walnut-crusted chicken.
Highlight the honey mustard glaze: Drizzle the honey mustard glaze in an artistic manner on the plate, using a squeeze bottle or a small spoon to create elegant swirls or drizzles that enhance the overall presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the walnut-crusted chicken to be the focal point. Arrange the components thoughtfully, leaving areas of the plate bare to create a visually appealing and balanced presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the walnut-crusted chicken.
Consider plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish, such as a white or neutral-toned plate, to allow the vibrant hues of the food to stand out. Additionally, consider using uniquely shaped plates to add an element of creativity to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Walnut-Crusted Chicken

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients in both liquid and dry forms.
Mixing bowl: Used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or dough.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients.
Food processor: A versatile appliance used for chopping, pureeing, and blending ingredients.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for frying, searing, and sautéing.
Oven-safe skillet: A skillet that can be used on the stovetop and then transferred to the oven for cooking.
Zipped-top bag or container: Used for marinating ingredients by sealing them in a bag or container.
Aluminum foil: Used for covering and wrapping food for cooking or storage.

How To Store and Freeze Walnut-Crusted Chicken

Let the walnut-crusted chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the chicken, place the cooled pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen walnut-crusted chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, place the thawed chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual pieces in the microwave, but the crust may lose some of its crispiness.
If you want to maintain the crunchiness of the walnut crust, it's best to reheat the chicken in the oven or toaster oven rather than the microwave.
Avoid refreezing the chicken once it has been thawed, as this can affect the texture and quality of the dish.

How To Reheat Leftover Walnut-Crusted Chicken

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover walnut-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 walnut crust is crispy once again. This method helps to preserve the texture of the crust while ensuring the chicken remains moist.
For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken and the power of your microwave. To prevent the chicken from drying out, cover it with a damp paper towel before microwaving. Keep in mind that the crust may soften slightly using this method.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat the walnut-crusted chicken while maintaining its crispy texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the crust is crispy. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even reheating.
For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is warmed through and the crust is crispy. This method helps to refresh the flavors of the herbs and spices in the crust.
If you want to add some extra moisture to the leftover chicken, create a quick pan sauce. After reheating the chicken using one of the above methods, remove it from the pan and add a splash of white wine or chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan and let the liquid simmer for a minute or two. Stir in a small amount of butter or heavy cream to create a silky sauce, then spoon it over the reheated walnut-crusted chicken for added flavor and moisture.

Random Fact About Walnut-Crusted Chicken

The walnut-crusted chicken recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that provides a good source of protein and healthy fats. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function. This recipe offers a unique and flavorful way to enjoy chicken, incorporating the crunchiness of walnuts and the tanginess of Dijon mustard. It's a great option for those looking to add variety to their chicken dishes while still keeping it healthy and satisfying.

Is This Chicken Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This walnut-crusted chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken breasts and walnuts, are reasonably priced and readily available. The addition of olive oil and honey may slightly increase the cost, but they are versatile ingredients that can be used in various other recipes. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly yet delicious option for a family meal.

Is This Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The walnut-crusted chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side:

Chicken breast is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair
Walnuts are rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber
Dijon mustard contains beneficial compounds like glucosinolates, which may have anti-cancer properties
Garlic and thyme offer antioxidants and potential immune-boosting benefits

However, there are some less healthy components:

The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks fiber and nutrients compared to whole-grain alternatives
Frying the chicken in oil adds extra calories and unhealthy fats
The honey mustard glaze, while tasty, contributes added sugars to the dish

To make this recipe healthier, consider these suggestions:

Swap all-purpose flour for a whole-grain variety like whole-wheat or almond flour to increase fiber and nutrient content
Instead of frying, try baking the chicken on a wire rack to allow excess fat to drip away
Reduce the amount of honey in the glaze or opt for a sugar-free dijon mustard to minimize added sugars
Serve the chicken alongside a generous portion of colorful, non-starchy vegetables to boost the overall nutrient profile of the meal
Use a heart-healthy oil like avocado or coconut oil for cooking to provide beneficial fats

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Chicken Dish

The walnut-crusted chicken recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich and savory taste, while the walnut crust adds a satisfying crunch. The honey mustard glaze provides a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. This dish is a perfect choice for a special dinner or a gathering with friends. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Overall, it's a winning recipe that is sure to impress and satisfy anyone who tries it.

Enhance Your Walnut Crusted Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic, butter, and a hint of parmesan cheese.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a burst of citrus flavor.

Cranberry Walnut Spinach Salad: Fresh spinach leaves tossed with sweet cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing side salad option.

Delicious Alternatives to Try If You Love Walnut-Crusted Chicken

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad: This grilled peach and prosciutto salad is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy grilled peaches pair perfectly with the salty prosciutto, and the addition of fresh arugula and a tangy vinaigrette brings it all together for a refreshing summer salad.

Balsamic Glazed Pork Chops: These balsamic glazed pork chops are a delicious and easy weeknight dinner option. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze adds a burst of flavor to the juicy pork chops, making them a hit with the whole family.

Ideal Appetizers and Desserts for a Walnut-Crusted Chicken Dinner Party

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful and refreshing caprese skewers are a delightful way to start any gathering. With juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, they are a light and flavorful option for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of decadence.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm, cinnamon-spiced filling of a classic apple pie, nestled in a flaky, buttery crust and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Why trust this Walnut Crusted Chicken Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful dining experience, as it features walnuts for a rich, nutty flavor and dijon mustard for a tangy kick. The combination of extra virgin olive oil and dry white wine ensures succulent and moist chicken. The use of fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness to the dish. The honey mustard glaze provides a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. With a perfect blend of flavors and textures, this recipe is a testament to culinary excellence.

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FAQ:

What can I use as a substitute for walnuts in this recipe?

You can use pecans, almonds, or even breadcrumbs as a substitute for walnuts in this recipe. Each will provide a slightly different flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I prepare the walnut-crusted chicken ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can prepare the walnut-crusted chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Can I omit the white wine from the marinade?

If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or even apple cider vinegar for a tangy flavor. The white wine adds a depth of flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a thermometer, make a small cut in the thickest part of the chicken to check for any pinkness or juices running clear.