Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as delicious as it is impressive? Meet the Crunchy Almond Maple Glazed Chicken – a mouthwatering recipe that combines the savory goodness of chicken with the sweet, nutty crunch of almonds and a luscious maple glaze. In just 45 minutes, you can serve up a meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This American classic is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a standout dish for special occasions. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone raving!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup almonds, chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy exterior when baking.
- In a shallow bowl, mix chopped almonds, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a crunchy coating mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard to create a sweet and tangy glaze that will enhance the chicken's flavor.
- Brush each chicken breast generously with the maple-mustard glaze, ensuring complete coverage on all sides.
- Roll the glazed chicken breasts in the almond mixture, pressing gently to help the nuts adhere to the surface and create a crunchy coating.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking and crisp edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the almond coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Drizzle any remaining maple glaze over the chicken before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the almond coating and maple glaze in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
- Patience is Key: Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry before coating them. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crispy texture when baking.
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to experiment with different nuts! If almonds aren't your favorite, try using pecans or walnuts for a unique twist on this recipe.
- Glaze Generously: Don’t be shy with the maple-mustard glaze! A generous coating not only enhances flavor but also helps the almond crust stick better.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for perfectly juicy chicken.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in tender and moist chicken.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your Crunchy Almond Maple Glazed Chicken with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 110mg
