Description
This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish featuring juicy, pan-seared chicken breasts coated in a sweet and smoky maple-bourbon glaze and topped with toasted pecans. It’s elegant enough for entertaining but easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add remaining butter, garlic, bourbon, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Cook the sauce for 3–5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the alcohol to cook off.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2 minutes to coat well.
- Sprinkle toasted pecans over the chicken and drizzle with additional sauce.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier version.
- If you prefer non-alcoholic, substitute bourbon with apple cider or chicken broth with a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-sear
- Cuisine: American