Get ready for a culinary journey that will excite your taste buds while keeping your heart happy. Today’s star of the show is none other than Pecan-Crusted Chicken Breasts, a deliciously heart-healthy recipe known for its spectacular symphony of flavors. This succulent dish is a dynamic duo of wholesome taste and healthiness that proves eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Ingredients List
Here are the essential actors that take center stage in our Pecan-Crusted Chicken Breasts recipe:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of crushed pecans
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 cup whole grain bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions
Embark on this eye-opening culinary journey with these easy-to-follow steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish lightly with one tablespoon of olive oil.
- Combine crushed pecans, breadcrumbs, fresh thyme, sea salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish to form your crust mixture.
- Dip chicken breasts into the beaten eggs, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Roll the egg-coated breasts in the pecan mixture, pressing firmly to ensure it adheres completely.
- Arrange the pecan-crusted chicken breasts in the oiled baking dish and drizzle with the remaining olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time & Servings
This scrumptious recipe takes about 40 minutes and serves four. Perfect those weeknight family dinners!
Nutritional Information
Pecan-Crusted Chicken Breasts are not just a feast for the taste buds but a treasure trove of nutrition. Let’s take a peek at the nutritional benefits per serving:
- Total calories: 500 kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 40g
- CoQ10: 3mg
Indulging in these delectable Pecan-Crusted Chicken Breasts doesn’t just satiate your taste buds but indulges your journey to a healthy heart, thanks to CoQ10.
Tips and Tricks
– For a fluffy and more flavorful crust, toast the pecans briefly before crushing them.
– If you’re following a gluten-free diet, consider substituting the breadcrumbs for ground flaxseeds.
– Marinate the chicken breasts before coating them for an extra kick of flavor.
As we bring this culinary journey to a close
Don’t just take our word for it, cook up a storm and serve this heart-healthy Pecan-Crusted Chicken Breasts at your very own dinner table. Share your culinary stories with us, because nothing brings people closer than good food and meaningful conversations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the Pecan-Crusted Chicken Breasts with other types of nuts?
– Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts can also serve as great alternatives.
2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
– The interior of the chicken should reach 165°F on a meat thermometer.
3. Can I freeze the Pecan-Crusted Chicken Breasts?
– Yes, you can! Make sure to seal it properly before freezing.
4. What’s the best side dish to go with Pecan-Crusted Chicken Breast?
– A light, citrusy salad or steamed veggies complement this dish perfectly.
5. Is this dish appropriate for people following a Keto diet?
– With a few tweaks such as replacing bread crumbs with parmesan, this can be adapted to a Keto-friendly recipe.
Remember, good food is all about experimentation, so don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. Can’t wait to hear your culinary tales!