Name: Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp pure maple syrup; 1 cup pecans, finely chopped; ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs); ¼ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional); ½ tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for moisture)

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If you’re looking to shake up weeknight dinners, this Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken is my top recommendation for flavor, texture, and pure wow-factor. Imagine juicy chicken breasts coated in a golden, nutty crust with the irresistible sweetness of real maple syrup in every bite. It’s a uniquely delicious, slightly sweet, and fabulously crunchy spin on breaded chicken that feels comfortingly familiar yet excitingly new. Whether you pan-sear or oven-bake it, this Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with crisp salads, roasted fall veggies, or mashed sweet potatoes. Friends and family will definitely ask for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple, fresh ingredients coming together to make something magical. The pecans add richness and crunch, while maple syrup and Dijon bring in flavor layers you won’t want to miss. Here’s what you need:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs will both work and soak up every bit of sweet-nutty coating.
Salt and Pepper: A light seasoning on the chicken brings all the flavors into balance.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a hint of tang that perfectly complements the maple and nuts.
Pure Maple Syrup: Use real maple syrup for natural sweetness and beautiful caramelization.
Pecans: Finely chopped for the best crust—pulse them in a food processor or chop by hand for more crunch.
Panko Breadcrumbs (or Gluten-Free): Panko makes the coating extra crispy; gluten-free works just as well.
Garlic Powder: Gives a savory note that makes the crust irresistible.
Smoked Paprika (Optional): Adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color.
Salt: Essential for seasoning the crust so every bite pops.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Combines with the nuts and breadcrumbs for even browning and a delectable texture.

How to Make

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Setup

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. For extra-crispy chicken, set a wire rack on top of the baking sheet—this allows hot air to circulate underneath and creates a perfectly crunchy crust.

Step 2: Season Your Chicken

Pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels so the coating sticks properly. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper; this initial seasoning makes a huge difference and brings out all the natural flavors of the chicken and the crust.

Step 3: Mix the Maple-Dijon Coating

In a small bowl, stir together the Dijon mustard and pure maple syrup until smooth. Brush this vibrant mixture generously over both sides of each chicken breast or thigh. It acts as both glue for the crust and a key flavor booster for the Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken.

Step 4: Make the Pecan Crust Mixture

In a shallow bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, panko (or gluten-free) breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), and salt. Drizzle in the olive oil or melted butter. Stir everything just until the mixture feels slightly clumpy—this ensures a crust that sticks beautifully and bakes up golden and crisp.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Press each chicken piece firmly into the pecan mixture, turning to coat both sides evenly. Really pack the crust on—it’s the star of the show! Place the coated chicken on your prepared wire rack or baking sheet, giving each piece a bit of space so it crisps up rather than steams.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a stunning, restaurant-style finish, pop it under the broiler for the last two minutes for a deep golden color and extra crunch. Let the chicken rest for five minutes before slicing to keep it perfectly juicy.

How to Serve

Garnishes

This dish loves a simple flourish. Try a light drizzle of warm maple syrup, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, or even a scattering of extra toasted pecans for heightened crunch and color. A few lemon wedges on the side offer a bright contrast to the sweet-savory crust.

Side Dishes

Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken is tasty enough to take center stage, so keep the sides simple. Roast up some butternut squash or Brussels sprouts, toss together a crisp fall salad (think arugula, apples, and sharp cheese), or serve over velvety mashed sweet potatoes. For a lighter touch, a tangy slaw balances everything beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun dinner-party twist, slice the Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken and fan it over a bed of wild rice pilaf or autumn greens. Cut into strips and serve atop waffles for a sweet-savory brunch, or tuck chilled slices into a sandwich with cranberry mayo for a picnic-perfect leftover lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It’ll keep well for up to three days, making it perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick weeknight salads.

Freezing

To freeze, place cooled chicken pieces on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. The crust stays crispier if you freeze before slicing, and it can be stored for up to two months. Be sure to label and date your container.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 10–15 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy. If you’re short on time, a quick blast in the air fryer also works wonders. Microwave is fine for speed, but the coating may soften.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and take on the sweet, nutty flavor beautifully. Just adjust baking time as needed since they may take a few extra minutes to cook through.

What if I don’t have pecans?

You can substitute walnuts or even almonds for the crust. Just chop finely and proceed as directed—the flavor will be slightly different but still deliciously crunchy and satisfying.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the panko for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. Everything else in Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for various diets.

Can I cook this in the air fryer?

Definitely! Air fry at 375°F for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway. The result is beautifully crisp without turning on the oven—perfect for small kitchens or hot days.

How do I keep the pecan crust from falling off?

Press the chicken firmly into the pecan mixture and use the maple-Dijon coating as a glue. Be sure to bake on a rack or well-lined sheet so the crust cooks evenly and adheres to the chicken. If any crumbs fall off, simply scoop and sprinkle them on before serving!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Maple Pecan Crusted Chicken enough—it’s easy to make, wonderfully impressive, and every bite tastes special. Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself, give this dish a try and prepare for rave reviews at your dinner table!