Pecan Parmesan Chicken Recipe
In the South, we love our fried chicken and we also love pecans. This is my favorite way to combine the two. I treat moist chicken breasts to a crunchy coating of pecans, Parmesan cheese, basil and oregano.
In the South, we love our fried chicken and we also love pecans. This is my favorite way to combine the two. I treat moist chicken breasts to a crunchy coating of pecans, Parmesan cheese, basil and oregano.
- Carbohydrate 3.9700293769938 g
- Cholesterol 2.44444444755914 mg
- Fat 5.90863750656804 g
- Fiber 0.803439529257657 g
- Protein 3.21163887152239 g
- Saturated Fat 0.970972260253891 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (26g)
- Sodium 286.416815224959 mg
- Sugar 3.16658984773614 g
- Trans Fat 0.315812477628455 g
- Calories 79 calories
Step-by-step
- Flatten chicken to 1/2-in. thickness.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, pecans, oregano, salt, basil and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk egg whites and cornstarch until smooth.
- Dip chicken into egg white mixture, then roll in crumb mixture.
- In a large nonstick skillet, cook chicken over medium heat in oil for 3-5 minutes on each side or until browned.
- Transfer to an ungreased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan.
- Bake, uncovered, at 450 degrees for 8-10 minutes or until juices run clear.
My Go-To Recipe for Weeknight Wonders: Pecan Parmesan Chicken
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending laundry pile, whipping up something from scratch often takes a back seat. But let me tell you, this Pecan Parmesan Chicken recipe has become my absolute lifesaver. It’s quick, it's easy, and most importantly, it's incredibly flavourful. The combination of crunchy pecans, savory Parmesan, and tender chicken breast is simply irresistible. My kids gobble it up, and even my picky husband asks for seconds.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients are required. It's a perfect example of how a few simple pantry staples can transform into a truly satisfying meal. I usually prep everything while the kids are still at school, so by the time they're home, dinner is almost ready. I start by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness – this ensures even cooking. Then, I whisk together the egg whites and cornstarch, creating a light and airy batter that adheres beautifully to the chicken. The crumb mixture – a delightful mix of bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped pecans, and a blend of herbs – adds a wonderfully crisp and flavorful coating.
Pan-frying the chicken adds a delightful golden-brown crust, locking in the juices and enhancing the overall taste. A short stint in the oven finishes the cooking process, ensuring that the chicken is perfectly cooked through. The entire process takes less than 30 minutes – a truly impressive feat for a weeknight meal! The recipe is incredibly versatile too. I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a bit of extra zing. Other times, I serve it with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. The pecan parmesan crust is equally delicious with other proteins. I've experimented with pork chops and turkey breasts, and the results have always been exceptional. So, if you’re searching for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious recipe that will please the entire family, look no further. This Pecan Parmesan Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it’s become a staple in my dinner rotation for a reason. Give it a try; you won't be disappointed!
Tips and Variations:
For extra crispy chicken: Let the breaded chicken rest for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This allows the breading to set, resulting in an extra crispy crust.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breading mixture for a touch of heat.
Herby delight: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary would be a lovely addition.
Make it ahead: You can prep the chicken and breading mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. This makes weeknight cooking a breeze!
Serving suggestions: Serve your Pecan Parmesan Chicken with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of creativity in the kitchen. It's a recipe that reflects my commitment to providing my family with healthy and delicious food, even amidst the whirlwind of everyday life. It's a recipe that’s become a cherished part of our family's culinary story, and I hope it becomes a part of yours too.
