Name: Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken: 5 Irresistible Flavors
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup bourbon; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup chopped pecans; Salt and pepper to taste

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Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors that has transformed my weeknight dinners. This dish features chicken coated in a rich maple-bourbon glaze, topped with toasted pecans, creating an irresistible meal that is both easy to prepare and satisfying. If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dinner that the whole family will love, this recipe is your answer!

Why You’ll Love This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken recipe offers several delightful benefits that will make it a staple in your kitchen:

Quick Preparation: It takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and savory Maple Pecan Chicken with Bourbon glaze provides a unique taste experience.
Nutritious: Packed with protein, this dish is a healthy choice for dinner.
Gluten Free: Suitable for gluten-sensitive diets, making it inclusive for all.
Versatile: Pairs well with various side dishes, enhancing its appeal.
Kid-Friendly: The flavors are mild enough to please even the pickiest eaters.
Leftover Friendly: Great for meal prep and reheating!

Ingredients for Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Gather these items:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup bourbon
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 cup chopped pecans
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Step 3: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 4: Heat a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Step 5: Pour the maple-bourbon mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
Step 6: Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the chicken.
Step 7: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 8: Serve the Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken immediately, spooning the sauce over the top.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor in your Bourbon-infused Maple Pecan Chicken dish.
Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it juicy.
Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique twist.

Best Ways to Serve Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

This delectable chicken dish can be served with:

Steamed vegetables for a healthy balance.
Rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
Mashed potatoes for a comforting side.

How to Store and Reheat Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option. This is a perfect dish for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors from the bourbon and maple syrup, combined with the crunchy pecans. Ensuring the chicken is cooked to the right temperature is also crucial for a juicy result.

Can I make Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken in advance. Cover it and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken?

To avoid drying out the chicken, ensure it isn’t overcooked. Using a meat thermometer will help you achieve the perfect doneness. Additionally, don’t skip letting the chicken rest before slicing.

Variations of Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider:

Swap the pecans for walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Use a spicy bourbon variant for an extra kick in your dish.

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken: 5 Irresistible Flavors - Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza for a fun twist on dinner. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss our Classic Vanilla Ice Cream recipe!

For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can visit Healthline.

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken: 5 Irresistible Flavors

Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken dish is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors. The chicken is coated in a rich maple-bourbon glaze and topped with toasted pecans for an irresistible weeknight meal.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat a large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Pour the maple-bourbon mixture over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the chicken.
Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serve the Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken immediately, spooning the sauce over the top.