![['Close-up of juicy Maple Pecan-Crusted Chicken, showcasing golden-brown crust and garnished with fresh thyme.', 'Side view of Maple Pecan-Crusted Chicken, highlighting the crunchy texture and succulent meat.', 'Detailed close-up of Maple Pecan-Crusted Chicken, with visible pecans and a drizzle of maple syrup.', 'Appetizing Maple Pecan-Crusted Chicken, displaying its rich colors and garnishing elements.']](https://goldenchickenrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/u6426281249_close_up_photo_side_view_from_reddit._taken_with__4856a350-0430-45e0-9450-063019d52fe8_0.webp)
Maple Pecan-Crusted Chicken
A flavorful chicken dish featuring a sweet maple and pecan crust, perfect for a satisfying meal with a hint of sweetness and crunch.
Ingredients
Ginger, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, mustard, syrup, thyme, paprika, oil, salt
- 1 piece ginger, peeled, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 lemon lemon, zested, halved
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme (plus more for serving)
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- Kosher salt Kosher salt
- 2 6- to 8-oz. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Freshly ground black pepper black pepper (to taste)
- 2/3 c. finely chopped raw pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and heat a skillet.
- Mix ginger, garlic, lemon zest, juice, mustard, syrup, thyme, paprika, 2 tbsp oil, and salt. Refrigerate 1/4 cup of this mixture.
- Pat chicken dry, halve lengthwise, season with salt and pepper, then coat with remaining ginger mixture.
- Heat skillet with 2 tbsp oil, press chicken into pecans, and cook pecan side up until browned.
- Bake until chicken reaches 165°F, about 15-17 minutes. Serve with reserved ginger mixture, thyme, and lemon wedges.
Notes
Ensure chicken is cooked to the proper temperature for safety and best flavor.