Honey pecan crusted chicken breasts

Honey pecan crusted chicken breasts feature tender chicken coated in a sweet honey and nut mixture, baked to crispy perfection. This dish offers a delightful contrast of flavours, making it ideal for special dinners or weeknight meals.

16 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
1/2 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup pecans
3 tbsp butter

This honey pecan crusted chicken breast recipe is a delightful blend of sweetness and nuttiness, perfect for a special dinner or a hearty weeknight meal. The tender chicken breasts are coated in a mixture of honey and chopped pecans, then baked to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both crispy and succulent.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's ready to go once the chicken is prepped and coated.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help the coating stick better.
- Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

3. Coating Preparation:
- Spread the flour on a shallow plate or dish. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, coating all sides, and shake off the excess. Set aside.
- In a separate small bowl, warm the honey slightly if needed to make it easier to spread. A quick 10 seconds in the microwave should suffice.
- Finely chop the pecans and place them on another shallow plate or dish.

4. Coat with Honey and Pecans:
- Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, evenly brush the honey over each chicken breast. Ensure it’s well-coated, especially on the top surface.
- Press the honey-coated side of the chicken breast into the chopped pecans until it is fully covered. Repeat for all the breasts.

5. Cook the Chicken:
- In a large ovenproof skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is bubbly and hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Make sure the pecan-coated side is facing up.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown.

6. Bake:
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- If you don't have an ovenproof skillet, transfer the chicken to a greased baking dish before placing it in the oven.

7. Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices.
- Serve the honey pecan crusted chicken breasts with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a deliciously sweet and nutty honey pecan crusted chicken breast that is sure to impress your family and friends. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Honey pecan crusted chicken breasts FAQ:

What is the recommended baking time for the chicken breasts?

Bake the chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes after searing them in the skillet. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

What size pan should I use for cooking the chicken?

A large ovenproof skillet is ideal for this recipe, as it allows you to sear the chicken and then transfer it directly to the oven. If you don’t have one, use a greased baking dish.

Can I substitute honey with a different sweetener?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a similar sweetness. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will change slightly.

How can I store leftovers of the honey pecan chicken?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.

What should I do if the chicken breasts are not browning properly?

If the chicken breasts are not browning, ensure the butter is hot enough before adding the chicken. You can also increase the heat slightly, but monitor closely to prevent burning.

Cooking Tips:

- For an even coating, dredge the chicken breasts thoroughly in the flour before adding the honey and pecan mixture.

- Chop the pecans finely to ensure they adhere well to the chicken and provide a consistent crunchy texture with each bite.

- If the honey is too thick, warm it slightly to make it easier to spread over the chicken breasts.

- Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and to achieve a crispy crust.

- Let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 390kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 1.17g
Sugar 18g
Fat 18g

Honey pecan crusted chicken breasts