Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a gourmet experience with just a few magical ingredients. This sautéed chicken breast recipe with apricots, bourbon, and pecans is not just a meal—it's a culinary journey that combines sweet, nutty, and bold flavors in one spectacular plate. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your cooking skills in just 35 minutes.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1/2 cup dried apricots (chopped), 1/4 cup bourbon, 1/2 cup pecans (chopped), salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate, loosely covered with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped dried apricots and pecans. Stir them in the remaining oil and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the apricots soften slightly and the pecans are fragrant.
- Carefully pour in the bourbon, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to deglaze and incorporate any browned bits.
- Allow the bourbon to simmer for about 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly and creating a sauce.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the apricot and pecan mixture over the top, and let them warm through for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and serve the sautéed chicken breasts warm, garnished with the apricot and pecan sauce.
- Pair with your choice of sides, such as rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Always pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
- Let chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.
- Choose a high-quality bourbon for the most robust flavor in your sauce.
- Toast pecans briefly before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Don't rush the deglazing process—those browned bits in the pan hold incredible flavor.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the bourbon with apple juice or chicken broth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 317kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 35mg
