Southern Pecan Chicken
Southern Pecan Chicken offers a delightful combination of crispy pecans and tangy honey mustard flavor. Perfect for casual dinners or special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables and rice, providing a satisfying, nutty crunch and tender chicken that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the cooking dish with Reynolds Wrap or similar foil.
- Spread the deboned chicken breasts across the bottom of the pan.
- Pour Honey Mustard Dressing over all the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans across the top of the chicken breasts.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes at 325°F (163°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the Honey Mustard Dressing for a few hours or overnight. If you're short on pecans, walnuts can be a great substitute. To enhance the dish, try adding some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Pecan Chicken pairs beautifully with Braised Red Cabbage or a fresh Marinated Chicken Salad for a complete meal. Serve it alongside some roasted vegetables or a light grain salad for a balanced plate. For a delightful contrast, consider a side of Carrots Lyonnaise to add a touch of sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This helps retain moisture and keeps the pecans crunchy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Pecan Chicken contains roughly 48 calories, with 0g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may increase slightly, as skin-on pieces may take longer to cook through. The skin will also add extra flavor and crispiness.
What can I substitute for the Honey Mustard Dressing?
If you don’t have Honey Mustard Dressing, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of honey and Dijon mustard. You could also use a balsamic vinaigrette for a different flavor profile, but it will change the overall taste of the dish.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and layer it with the dressing and pecans in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before putting it in the oven.
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).