Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Southern Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together classic Southern comfort with an elegant twist. The bourbon adds a smoky undertone, the maple syrup offers sweetness, and the pecans give a satisfying crunch that complements the tender chicken perfectly. It’s versatile enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish, offering a tender base that absorbs the flavors beautifully. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat.

Maple syrup – Opt for pure maple syrup to achieve that authentic sweetness and depth of flavor. It caramelizes perfectly in the skillet, coating the chicken with a glossy glaze.

Bourbon – Adds a warm, smoky complexity that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a splash of apple cider works well as a substitute.

Pecans – Toasted pecans provide a buttery crunch and a nutty aroma that ties the dish together. They’re the secret to that irresistible texture contrast.

Dijon mustard – Lends a gentle tang that cuts through the richness of the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor harmony.

Garlic cloves – Freshly minced garlic brings depth and an aromatic punch to the glaze.

Butter – Unsalted butter helps create the rich, silky sauce that coats the chicken.

Olive oil – A touch of olive oil ensures even browning and helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan.

Heavy cream (or almond milk) – Adds smoothness and body to the sauce. I tried it with almond milk for a dairy-free version, and it worked wonderfully.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing the sweetness of the glaze.

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Directions

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter melts and begins to sizzle, add the chicken and sear on both sides until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.

In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Carefully pour in the bourbon, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful browned bits. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to cook off the alcohol.

Next, stir in maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Whisk until smooth, then return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, coating the chicken evenly. Add the toasted pecans and heavy cream (or almond milk) for a velvety finish. Continue to cook for another 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to a glossy consistency, remove from heat. Garnish with extra pecans or a drizzle of maple syrup before serving.

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Essential Equipment

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• 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.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
• knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
• Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

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Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, but the goal is a golden sear with juicy, fully cooked meat inside.

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Storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to maintain the sauce’s smooth texture. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may cause the chicken to dry out.

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Variations and Customizations

Spicy Maple Bourbon Chicken – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red chili flakes for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.

Maple Bacon Version – Incorporate crisped bacon bits into the sauce for a smoky, savory boost.

Citrus Twist – Add a tablespoon of orange juice or zest to the sauce for a bright, tangy lift.

Herb Infusion – Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary into the glaze for an aromatic touch.

Nut-Free Option – Replace pecans with toasted sunflower seeds for similar crunch without the allergens.

Creamy Mushroom Variation – Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for extra umami and texture.

Vegan Adaptation – Swap the chicken for firm tofu or seitan, use plant butter, and substitute bourbon with apple cider.

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FAQs

Can I make this dish without bourbon?

Yes, you can substitute bourbon with apple cider or apple juice for a similar sweetness and depth.

Do I need to toast the pecans first?

Toasting the pecans enhances their nutty flavor and prevents them from becoming soggy in the sauce.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it separately. Reheat and combine with freshly cooked chicken when ready to serve.

What kind of maple syrup is best?

Always choose 100% pure maple syrup—Grade A amber is ideal for its rich, balanced flavor.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer a bit longer or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Thighs offer more flavor and stay juicy, though they may require slightly longer cooking time.

Is there a non-dairy substitute for cream?

Yes, almond milk or coconut cream works well as lighter, dairy-free alternatives.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Yes, sear first for color, then bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes until fully cooked.

What side dishes go well with this?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or wild rice pair beautifully with the sauce.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

Up to 3 days in a sealed container. Reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.

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Conclusion

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create an unforgettable meal. The combination of sweet maple, smoky bourbon, and buttery pecans transforms ordinary chicken into something truly special. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or to impress guests, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a recurring favorite on your dinner table.

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