Experience the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors with this delightful Bourbon Pecan Chicken recipe. Juicy chicken breasts, coated in a crunchy pecan and bread crumb crust, are complemented by a rich bourbon-infused sauce. This dish is a true culinary delight, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
In our little family kitchen, Bourbon Pecan Chicken has become synonymous with comfort and indulgence. It all started one chilly evening when I decided to experiment with flavors, seeking to elevate our usual chicken dinner. From the moment the savory aroma filled the air, I knew this recipe was a winner. Now, it’s a regular feature on our menu, loved by both young and old alike. Every bite is a journey of flavors, from the crispiness of the pecan crust to the richness of the bourbon-infused sauce. It’s a dish that brings warmth to our hearts and smiles to our faces, making every mealtime a cherished moment.
Why This Recipe Will Win Your Heart:
- Perfect Harmony of Flavors: Indulge in the delightful combination of crunchy pecans, sweet honey, tangy Dijon mustard, and rich bourbon sauce, all perfectly complementing juicy chicken breasts.
- Simple Yet Elegant: Impress your guests with this sophisticated dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
- Versatile Delight: Whether served alongside roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad, Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.
- A Touch of Southern Comfort: Transport your taste buds to the South with this comforting dish that embodies the warmth and hospitality of Southern cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons honey, divided
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, divided
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally into 2 thinner pieces
- Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoons bourbon
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon butter
Directions:
- In a large ziptop bag, combine finely chopped pecans and bread crumbs. Set aside.
- In a small bowl, stir together 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brush both sides with the honey/Dijon mixture.
- One at a time, add a chicken breast to the pecan/bread crumb mixture, shaking the bag to coat well.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Heat butter and oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Transfer chicken to a casserole dish and place in the oven to finish cooking, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Wipe the pan clean. Add bourbon, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, heavy cream, cayenne pepper, and chopped pecans to the pan. Simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Season sauce to taste with salt and pepper.
Notes:
- For a richer sauce, allow the bourbon mixture to reduce slightly before adding the cream.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.
