Name: Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Mustard Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pecans; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tsp thyme; 1 tsp paprika; 1½ tsp salt; cayenne; 1 egg; 2 tbsp water; 4 chicken breasts; 3 tbsp cooking oil; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp dijon mustard; ½ tsp white wine vinegar; ½ tsp sugar; 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley

This recipe for pecan-crusted chicken with mustard sauce brings together a host of delectable flavors. The nutty crust adds a delightful crunch, which when combined with the tangy mustard sauce, creates an unforgettable culinary experience.

pecan-crusted chicken with mustard sauce recipe

Photos of Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Mustard Sauce Recipe

Most ingredients can be found in a well-stocked pantry, but you might need to make a special trip for the pecans. These nuts are key to creating the signature crust. Make sure to also pick up a bottle of good quality Dijon mustard for the sauce - its complex flavor really makes a difference in this dish.

Ingredients for Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Mustard Sauce

Pecans: This nut is the star of the show, providing a crunchy texture and rich, buttery flavor to the chicken crust.

Cornstarch: Helps to bind the pecan crust to the chicken.

Thyme: Adds an earthy and slightly floral flavor to the dish.

Paprika: Gives a sweet and smoky flavor, as well as a beautiful color.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.

Cayenne: Adds a bit of heat, which balances out the sweetness of the pecans.

Egg: Acts as a binder for the pecan crust.

Cooking oil: Used for frying the chicken.

Chicken breasts: The main protein of this dish, which gets covered in the pecan crust.

Mayonnaise: Helps to create a creamy base for the mustard sauce.

Dijon Mustard: Brings a tangy and complex flavor to the mustard sauce.

White wine vinegar: Adds acidity to the mustard sauce, balancing out the richness.

Sugar: A small amount is used to add a touch of sweetness to the mustard sauce.

Fresh parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color to the dish.

One reader, Honoria Cloud says:

This pecan-crusted chicken with mustard sauce recipe is a game-changer! The crunchy pecan coating adds a delightful texture, and the tangy mustard sauce perfectly complements the dish. It's a crowd-pleaser and a definite winner for any dinner party. Highly recommend trying it out!

Honoria Cloud

Techniques Required

How to prepare the pecan mixture: In a food processor, pulse the pecans with the cornstarch, thyme, paprika, 1 1/4 teaspoons of the salt, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne until the nuts are finely chopped.

How to coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture and then into the pecan mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.

How to make the mustard dipping sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, parsley, a pinch of cayenne, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

How to serve the dish: Serve the pecan-crusted chicken with the mustard dipping sauce on the side.

How to pair with sides: Consider serving the dish with creamy potato gratin and sautéed green beans for a well-rounded meal.

How to pair with wine: This dish pairs well with a crisp sparkling wine or a stainless-steel-fermented sauvignon blanc from California.

How To Make Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Mustard Sauce

These pecan-crusted chicken are fried into golden crisp meat with a hint of spice from paprika and cayenne. Pair it with a creamy mustard sauce to finish!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cuppecans
2tbspcornstarch
1tspthyme,dried
1tsppaprika
1½tspsalt
cayenne
1egg
2tbspwater
4chicken breasts,boneless, skinless
3tbspcooking oil
1cupmayonnaise
2tbspDijon mustard,or grainy
½tspwhite wine vinegar
½tspsugar
2tbspfresh parsley,chopped

Instructions

In a food processor, pulse the pecans with the cornstarch, thyme, paprika, 1¼ teaspoons of the salt, and ⅛ teaspoon cayenne until the nuts are chopped fine.
Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl.
Whisk together the egg and the water in a small bowl.
Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture and then into the nut mixture.
In a large nonstick frying pan, heat the oil over moderate heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5 minutes.
Turn and continue cooking for 5 to 6 minutes longer until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, sugar, parsley, a pinch of cayenne, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt.
Serve the chicken with mustard dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 1002.69kcal
Fat: 90.25g
Saturated Fat: 13.94g
Trans Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 35.11g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 38.71g
Carbohydrates: 8.62g
Fiber: 3.01g
Sugar: 1.69g
Protein: 40.35g
Cholesterol: 173.87mg
Sodium: 699.39mg
Calcium: 52.58mg
Potassium: 535.97mg
Iron: 2.52mg
Vitamin A: 82.73µg
Vitamin C: 3.15mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Pecan-Crusted Chicken

When preparing the pecan-crusted chicken, it's important to ensure the pecans are finely chopped to create a consistent and even crust. This can be achieved by pulsing the nuts in a food processor until they reach a fine, breadcrumb-like consistency. Additionally, when frying the chicken, be sure to maintain a moderate heat. Too high and the pecan crust may burn before the chicken is fully cooked, too low and the crust may not become adequately crispy. Lastly, don't forget to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pecan-Crusted Chicken With Mustard Sauce

Prep ahead: Chop and measure ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Multitask: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the mustard sauce to save time.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen tidy and organized to work efficiently.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and nonstick pans to expedite the cooking process.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes and save time on improvisation.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes as you cook to minimize cleanup time later.

Batch cooking: Consider making extra chicken for future meals to save time on cooking later.

Substitute Ingredients For Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Mustard Sauce Recipe

Pecans - Substitute with almonds: Almonds have a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making them a suitable replacement for pecans in this recipe.
Cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a thickening agent in place of cornstarch, providing a similar consistency to the dish.
Thyme - Substitute with rosemary: Rosemary can impart a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish, complementing the chicken and mustard sauce.
Paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky flavor that can enhance the overall depth of the dish.
Mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a creamy texture and tangy flavor, serving as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise in the mustard sauce.
Dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard provides a similar pungent flavor and adds a delightful texture with its whole mustard seeds.
Cooking oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier option and adds a subtle fruity note to the dish.
White wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar offers a slightly sweet and fruity tang that can complement the flavors in the mustard sauce.
Fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh chives: Fresh chives can provide a mild onion-like flavor and a pop of green color as a garnish for the dish.

Presenting Pecan-Crusted Chicken With Mustard Sauce

Elevate the plating: Arrange the pecan-crusted chicken on the plate with precision, ensuring each piece is positioned thoughtfully to create an appealing visual composition.
Incorporate contrasting colors: Introduce vibrant elements such as a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a drizzle of mustard sauce to add pops of color and enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Emphasize texture: Create a balance of textures by incorporating a crispy pecan crust alongside smooth, creamy mustard sauce, adding depth and interest to each bite.
Utilize negative space: Allow the plate to breathe by strategically leaving areas of the plate empty, enhancing the visual impact and drawing attention to the meticulously plated pecan-crusted chicken.
Employ elegant garnishes: Consider delicate microgreens or edible flowers to add a touch of sophistication and elevate the overall presentation of the dish.
Focus on symmetry and balance: Ensure that the components of the dish are arranged in a harmonious and balanced manner, showcasing attention to detail and culinary finesse.
Highlight the mustard sauce: Use a small quenelle or carefully drizzled lines of the mustard sauce to create an artistic and refined presentation, drawing attention to the flavorful accompaniment.
Opt for minimalism: Embrace a minimalist approach, allowing the natural beauty of the pecan-crusted chicken and mustard sauce to take center stage without overwhelming the plate with excessive elements.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to finely chop the pecans for the pecan-crusted chicken.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the pecans, cornstarch, thyme, paprika, salt, and cayenne to create the coating for the chicken.
Small bowl: A small bowl is used for whisking together the egg and water for dipping the chicken before coating it with the pecan mixture.
Nonstick frying pan: A nonstick frying pan is used for cooking the pecan-crusted chicken, ensuring that it browns evenly without sticking to the pan.
Small bowl: Another small bowl is used for combining the mayonnaise, dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, sugar, parsley, and cayenne to create the flavorful mustard dipping sauce.

How To Store and Freeze This Dish

The pecan-crusted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the crispiness of the crust, it's best to reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
If you have leftover mustard sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The sauce may thicken slightly when chilled, but it can be thinned out with a little water or vinegar if needed.
To freeze the pecan-crusted chicken, let it cool completely to room temperature after cooking. Wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat the frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, unwrap the chicken and place it on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the crust is crispy again.
It's not recommended to freeze the mustard sauce as the texture and consistency may change after thawing. It's best to make the sauce fresh when needed.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover 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 again. This method will help maintain the crunchiness of the pecan crust while ensuring the chicken doesn't dry out.
For a quicker option, you can use an air fryer to reheat the chicken. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover chicken in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the crust is crispy. The air fryer will help restore the crispiness of the pecan coating without the need for additional oil.
If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a small amount of cooking oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is heated through and the crust is crispy again. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this may cause the coating to become soggy.
For the leftover mustard sauce, reheat it gently in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a small amount of water or chicken broth to thin it out. Alternatively, you can reheat the sauce in the microwave, stirring every 15-20 seconds to ensure even heating.
If you want to add a fresh twist to your leftover chicken, slice it and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with some cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a drizzle of the reheated mustard sauce. This will create a delicious and satisfying salad that showcases the flavors of the pecan-crusted chicken.

Random Fact About Pecan-Crusted Chicken With Mustard Sauce

Pecan-crusted chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that provides a good source of protein and healthy fats. It's a great way to add variety to your meals and experiment with different flavors and textures.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this pecan-crusted chicken with mustard sauce recipe is moderate. The use of pecans and chicken breasts may be slightly more expensive, but the dish offers a flavorful and satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $25-$30. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10, considering the delicious combination of flavors and the relatively easy preparation.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pecan-crusted chicken with mustard sauce 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. Pecans offer heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and antioxidants. The recipe also includes herbs and spices like thyme, paprika, and parsley, which add flavor without excessive calories.

However, the recipe has some less healthy components. The pecan coating is prepared with cornstarch, which is a refined carbohydrate. Frying the chicken in oil adds extra fat and calories. The mustard sauce, while flavorful, is high in fat due to the mayonnaise base. The recipe also lacks a significant source of vegetables or complex carbohydrates.

To make this recipe healthier, consider these suggestions:

Instead of frying, try baking the pecan-crusted chicken in the oven to reduce the added oil
Replace the mayonnaise in the mustard sauce with Greek yogurt for a lower-fat, protein-rich alternative
Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or sweet potatoes, to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Use whole-grain breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of cornstarch for a more nutrient-dense coating
Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe to lower the sodium content

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Recipe

The pecan-crusted chicken with mustard sauce recipe is a delightful combination of crunchy pecans and succulent chicken, complemented by the tangy and creamy mustard sauce. The blend of thyme, paprika, and cayenne adds depth to the pecan crust, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. The mustard dipping sauce provides a perfect balance of richness and acidity, enhancing the overall dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with creamy potato gratin and sautéed green beans, offering a well-rounded and indulgent meal. The suggested wine recommendations further elevate the dining experience, making this recipe a delightful choice for a special occasion or a gourmet dinner at home.

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

Creamy Potato Gratin: For a creamy and indulgent side, try a rich and cheesy potato gratin. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the crunchy pecan crust of the chicken.

Sautéed Green Beans: Sautéed green beans in bacon fat add a savory and smoky flavor to the meal. The crisp and tender beans complement the nutty and tangy flavors of the pecan-crusted chicken.

Sparkling Wine: A crisp sparkling wine will elevate the dining experience, balancing the sweet and savory elements of the dish with its effervescence and acidity.

Similar Recipes to Try

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a rich roasted garlic flavor, perfect as a side dish for any meal.

Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets marinated in a zesty lemon herb sauce and grilled to perfection, a light and flavorful seafood dish.

Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and savory risotto with caramelized onions and mushrooms, a comforting and satisfying vegetarian main course.

Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream: Sweet and juicy mixed berries baked with a buttery cobbler topping, served warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, a delightful dessert for any occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Pecan-Crusted Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a rich mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to your meal.

Crispy Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by topping crispy baguette slices with a flavorful mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and balsamic glaze. The combination of textures and flavors will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a perfect ending to any meal.

Why trust this Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Mustard Sauce Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of pecans and mustard, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The pecan crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the tangy mustard sauce provides a zesty kick. The use of fresh parsley enhances the dish with a burst of freshness. With carefully selected ingredients such as thyme and paprika, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience. The meticulous attention to detail and the thoughtful pairing of ingredients make this recipe a trustworthy choice for a memorable dining experience.

Want to share your experience making this Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Mustard Sauce recipe or discuss variations and serving suggestions? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

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

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

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through.

Can I make the mustard sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The mustard sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch in place of regular flour in the pecan coating.

Can I bake the pecan-crusted chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the pecan-crusted chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.