Honey mustard pecan-crusted chicken breasts

Honey mustard pecan-crusted chicken breasts feature a sweet and savory flavour profile with a crunchy, nutty coating. This straightforward baked dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

09 Dec 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

3 tbsp mustard
3 tbsp honey
1/3 cup butter
8 chicken breasts
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
1 cup bread crumbs
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 cup pecans

Honey mustard pecan-crusted chicken breasts are a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors with a crunchy nutty coating. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a weekend family meal. With the right balance of spices and textures, it'll surely become a favorite.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Honey Mustard Mix:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the mustard and honey until well combined. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Season the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with a dash of salt and black pepper.

4. Prepare the Breading:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread crumbs, dried basil, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Mix until the herbs are evenly distributed.

5. Prepare the Pecans:
Finely chop the pecans and spread them on a plate or shallow dish.

6. Coat the Chicken:
Working one at a time, dip each chicken breast into the honey mustard mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to adhere the crumbs to the chicken. Finally, press the chicken onto the chopped pecans, making sure the pecans stick to the surface.

7. Bake the Chicken:
Place the pecan-coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the coating process for all chicken breasts.

8. Cook:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The coating should be golden and crispy.

9. Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite sides!

Your honey mustard pecan-crusted chicken breasts are now ready to be served! Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite side of vegetables or a fresh salad. The combination of the sweet honey mustard and the crunchy pecan crust will leave everyone wanting more.

Honey mustard pecan-crusted chicken breasts FAQ:

How long do I bake the chicken breasts?

Bake the chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What if I don’t have pecans? Can I use another nut?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds. Just ensure they are finely chopped for even coating.

How should I store leftover chicken?

Store any leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best consumed within 3-4 days.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What sides pair well with honey mustard pecan-crusted chicken?

This chicken pairs nicely with sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.

Tips:

- Make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.

- For a finer pecan coating, pulse the pecans in a food processor until they reach your desired texture.

- If you find the honey mustard mixture too thick, you can thin it out slightly with a little water or olive oil.

- To make the dish healthier, opt for whole wheat bread crumbs and low-fat butter or margarine.

- Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and flavorful result.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 770kcal
Protein 60g
Carbohydrates 36g
Fiber 4.52g
Sugar 16g
Fat 44g

Honey mustard pecan-crusted chicken breasts