Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is one of those dishes that instantly feels special, yet it is surprisingly simple to prepare. The combination of rich maple syrup, warm bourbon, and crunchy pecans creates layers of flavor that transform ordinary chicken into something memorable. The first time I made this recipe, I was drawn to the way the glaze thickened into a glossy coating that clung beautifully to the chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The glaze caramelizes in the oven, locking in moisture while creating a rich, sticky finish.
It is also versatile and adaptable. You can use chicken breasts or thighs, adjust the sweetness to your liking, or add subtle spices to customize the dish. The recipe requires no complicated techniques, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Another reason to appreciate this dish is its presentation. The glossy glaze and crunchy pecan topping make it visually appealing, ideal for entertaining. Despite its refined flavor profile, it uses common pantry ingredients and comes together quickly, making it practical for weeknight cooking as well.
Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Showstopper
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Juicy chicken breasts coated in a crunchy pecan crust and glazed with a rich maple bourbon sauce. This sweet and savory dish is perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp bourbon
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Dredge each piece in flour, dip into beaten eggs, then coat with chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through.
- In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, butter, and thyme. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Drizzle the maple bourbon sauce over the cooked chicken before serving.
Notes
- Ensure pecans are finely chopped for better coating.
- If avoiding alcohol, substitute bourbon with apple juice.
- Use a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Pairs well with roasted vegetables or mashed sweet potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Provide lean protein and cook evenly, making them ideal for absorbing the glaze.
Pure maple syrup
Adds natural sweetness and helps form a caramelized coating during baking.
Bourbon
Introduces warmth and depth, enhancing the complexity of the sauce.
Chopped pecans
Add crunch and a rich nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the glaze.
Dijon mustard
Balances the sweetness with a subtle tang.
Garlic cloves
Enhance the savory depth of the dish.
Soy sauce
Adds umami and saltiness to balance the maple syrup.
Brown sugar
Deepens the caramel notes and helps thicken the glaze.
Olive oil
Used for searing and adding richness.
Salt
Enhances overall flavor.
Black pepper
Provides gentle heat and complexity.
Fresh thyme (optional)
Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the maple and bourbon.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken in a single layer.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This step enhances flavor and helps retain moisture.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar until smooth.
Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish. Pour the glaze evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top, pressing gently so they adhere.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F). During the final few minutes, spoon some of the pan sauce over the chicken to intensify the glaze.
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: Approximately 45 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat gently in the oven at 160°C (320°F) or in a skillet over low heat. Add a small splash of water or broth to prevent the glaze from thickening excessively.
The dish can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is highly adaptable. For added heat, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small amount of cayenne pepper into the glaze. The subtle spice pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
If you prefer darker meat, substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture. The glaze complements both cuts equally well.
For a slightly lighter version, reduce the brown sugar and rely primarily on the maple syrup for sweetness. You can also replace pecans with walnuts for a similar crunch.
Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar introduces brightness and balances the richness of the glaze. I have also tried including a teaspoon of smoked paprika, which deepens the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
If you prefer a stovetop-only method, simmer the chicken gently in the glaze until fully cooked and slightly thickened. This produces a more sauce-forward version, ideal for serving over rice.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 22 g |
| Sodium | 540 mg |
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Toast the Pecans
Lightly toasting enhances their flavor and maintains crunch.
Control the Heat
Cook on moderate heat to prevent the glaze from burning.
Spoon the Sauce
Basting during baking helps build a glossy finish.
Allow to Rest
Resting ensures the juices redistribute for tender slices.
FAQs
Does the alcohol remain after cooking?
Most of the alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind flavor.
Can I make this recipe alcohol-free?
Yes, substitute apple juice or chicken broth for bourbon.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice complement the flavors.
Can I grill this instead of baking?
Yes, grill the chicken and brush with glaze during the final minutes.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You may marinate the chicken in the glaze several hours ahead.
How do I prevent the pecans from burning?
If your oven runs hot, add the pecans halfway through baking.
Conclusion
Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken brings together sweetness, warmth, and crunch in a beautifully balanced dish. Its glossy glaze and tender texture make it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is a reliable way to elevate your chicken dinners.
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