In the realm of healthy eating, finding recipes that are both low in carbs and bursting with flavor can feel like a treasure hunt. But worry not, as we’ve stumbled upon a gem – the pecan crusted chicken recipe. This dish is a harmonious blend of juicy chicken, a crunchy pecan crust, and a medley of seasonings that will have your taste buds dancing.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before embarking on this culinary adventure, let’s ensure we have all the necessary ingredients. For the chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of the show. Season them with a sprinkle of salt, a dash of pepper, and a touch of garlic powder to kickstart the flavor journey.
The pecan crust is where the magic truly happens. Combine crushed walnuts (although almonds or hazelnuts can be delightful substitutes if you prefer), grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. A drizzle of olive oil binds these ingredients together, creating a paste that will transform the chicken into a crispy masterpiece.
To add a fresh and healthy touch, we’ll be using fresh asparagus for garnish. Just a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper is all it needs to shine.
The Art of Preparation
Preheat your oven to a toasty 180 degrees Celsius. While the oven is warming up, generously season the chicken breasts with the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure every inch is coated, as these seasonings will infuse the chicken with a savory base flavor.
In a separate bowl, create the crust mixture. Mix the crushed walnuts, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and olive oil until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Now, take the seasoned chicken breasts and gently press the nutty mixture onto them. Ensure that the chicken is completely covered, as this crust will be the source of that wonderful crunch.
Place the crusted chicken breasts on a baking sheet and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 – 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you’re aiming for the chicken to be cooked through and the crust to turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
While the chicken is working its magic in the oven, it’s time to prepare the asparagus garnish. Wash the asparagus and trim off the ends. Toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in a hot pan until they’re tender. This simple preparation allows the natural flavor of the asparagus to shine through.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection and the crust is gloriously golden, remove the pan from the oven. Plate the pecan crusted chicken alongside the roasted asparagus. The contrast between the crispy chicken and the tender asparagus is not only visually appealing but also a delight for the palate.
This pecan crusted chicken is not only a treat for those on a low – carb diet but also a dish that can impress guests at any gathering. The combination of the juicy chicken, the nutty and cheesy crust, and the fresh asparagus creates a symphony of flavors and textures.
If you’re looking to expand on this recipe, there are plenty of options. You can make chicken strips instead of using whole chicken breasts. Cut the chicken into 1 to 1 1/2 – inch strips, season them as before, and then coat them in a mixture of flour, beaten eggs, and the pecan – breadcrumb blend. Bake them at a higher temperature, around 500°F, for about 12 minutes until they’re cooked through and golden. Serve them with a delicious chipotle honey mustard sauce, made from mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, paprika, yellow mustard, lemon or lime juice, black pepper, and chipotle powder.
And don’t worry about leftovers. Pecan crusted chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To reheat, pop it in a preheated 400°F oven for 8 – 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture. If you’re planning ahead, you can even freeze the chicken after coating it with the pecan crust. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual.
So, why not give this pecan crusted chicken recipe a try? It’s a simple, delicious, and healthy way to enjoy a satisfying meal that will leave you craving more.
