Southern Chicken Pecan Log
Tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful molasses and Dijon mustard glaze, rolled in pecans, offering a sweet-savory crunch perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place each chicken breast half between pieces of wax paper and pound until thin.
- Mix molasses and Dijon mustard in a bowl.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper, then coat in the molasses mixture.
- Roll the coated chicken in finely ground pecans.
- Chill the pecan-coated chicken for 1 hour to set.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook until springy to the touch, about 5 to 6 minutes per side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the pecans with finely chopped walnuts or almonds if you have nut allergies. Make sure to pound the chicken evenly for consistent cooking. If you're looking for a bit more flavor, consider adding garlic powder or smoked paprika to the molasses mixture. This dish pairs beautifully with Mary Brogan's Jambalaya for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Southern Chicken Pecan Log on a bed of mixed greens for a light meal, or pair with roasted vegetables for a heartier option. A side of creamy coleslaw complements the dish nicely. Consider drizzling a balsamic reduction over the chicken for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, and cover until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but this may lead to a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Chicken Pecan Log contains roughly 517 calories, with 4g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (35% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1870mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pecan-coated chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and can save you time on the day you plan to serve it.
What can I serve with the Southern Chicken Pecan Log?
This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. You might also consider serving it with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious flavors. A side of cornbread could also complement the southern theme.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ensure that the Dijon mustard you use is gluten-free, and instead of traditional flour for coating, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts to achieve a similar texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).