If you're on the hunt for a dinner recipe that combines crispy texture with mouthwatering flavor, look no further than Pecan Crusted Buttermilk Chicken! This delightful dish takes juicy chicken breasts and envelops them in a crunchy pecan and breadcrumb coating, all while being soaked in rich buttermilk for that extra tenderness. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the details of how to create this culinary masterpiece!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for baking
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Pour buttermilk into a shallow dish. Submerge the chicken breasts in the buttermilk and let marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This will help tenderize the meat and add flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a separate shallow dish, combine the finely chopped pecans and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly to create an even coating mixture.
- Remove chicken breasts from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each chicken breast completely in the pecan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Arrange the crusted chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or lightly brush the tops with olive oil to help achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and accompanied by your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Don’t rush the buttermilk marination! Allow the chicken to soak for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure it’s tender and flavorful. For even more flavor, consider marinating it overnight in the refrigerator.
- Pecan Power: Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor. Toasting them lightly before chopping can enhance their nuttiness and add an extra layer of depth to your crust.
- Perfect Coating: When dredging the chicken in the pecan-breadcrumb mixture, press firmly to ensure the coating sticks well. A thicker crust will give you that irresistible crunch!
- Oven Readiness: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 375°F (190°C) before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption, ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This step is crucial for keeping the meat moist and ensuring the juices redistribute throughout.
- Serve with Style: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor. Pair with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 549kcal
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 39g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 97mg
