This Honey Garlic Pecan Chicken is a tasty treat, featuring crispy pecans and a sweet, sticky honey garlic sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
The combo of sweet and nutty flavors will make your taste buds dance! I love serving it with rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts give a tender and lean base. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture, or you can use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Pecans: These add a lovely crunch and nuttiness. If pecans aren’t available, walnuts or almonds can be good substitutes, or you can skip nuts altogether for a lighter dish.
Honey: This is the star of the sweet sauce. If you’re avoiding honey, maple syrup or agave syrup can be great alternatives, but you might want to reduce the quantity a bit, as they can be sweeter.
Soy Sauce: It adds umami and saltiness to the dish. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. Always check the sodium levels if you’re watching salt intake!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds tang to balance the sweetness. If you don’t have it, lemon juice works in a pinch, giving a fresher flavor.
How Do I Get The Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but follow these steps for juicy results:
- Start with medium heat to ensure even cooking. If the skillet is too hot, the exterior can burn before the inside is done.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F with a meat thermometer.
- Let it rest for a minute after cooking. This helps keep the juices inside for a more tender bite.
With these insights, you’re on your way to making delicious Honey Garlic Pecan Chicken that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!
Honey Garlic Pecan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total of around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you like a bit of smokiness. This adds a nice touch of flavor right from the beginning!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Toasting the Pecans:
In the same skillet, add the chopped pecans. Toast them for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly browned, stirring frequently to prevent any burning. Once toasted, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Making the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn! Then, stir in the honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Let this sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes and stir frequently until it thickens a little.
5. Combining Everything:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, and spoon some of that delicious sauce over them. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat everything through and let those flavors meld beautifully.
6. Final Touches:
Sprinkle the toasted pecans generously over the chicken and sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to brighten it up!
7. Serve:
Serve your Honey Garlic Pecan Chicken hot, with sides like green beans and rice or your favorite dish. Enjoy the sweet, savory, and nutty flavors!
This recipe yields a beautifully glazed chicken with crunchy pecans and a perfect balance of sweet and savory honey garlic sauce. Enjoy!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer than breasts to cook through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, like tamari or coconut aminos, and you’re all set!
What Can I Serve With Honey Garlic Pecan Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or even a simple side of steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal!
