Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken
Try this Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
- salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1-1/4 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup gluten-free flour
- 2 tablespoons bourbon (i used maker's mark)
- 1/4 cup fisher naturals pecan halves chopped
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup (not pancake syrup)
- 2 teaspoons gluten-free tamari or soy sauce (dish will not be
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary crushed between your fingers
- Carbohydrate 0.282562500405515 g
- Cholesterol 230 mg
- Fat 49.5707900003051 g
- Fiber 0.155699997318521 g
- Protein 57.2075350003325 g
- Saturated Fat 13.6774695833522 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (317g)
- Sodium 275.937559982186 mg
- Sugar 0.126862503086994 g
- Trans Fat 4.02132583334711 g
- Calories 691 calories
Step-by-step
- Add flour to a shallow dish then season generously with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken thigh in the seasoned flour then shake to remove excess and place onto a plate.
- In a medium-sized bowl whisk together chicken broth, maple syrup, chopped pecans, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, gluten-free tamari, and dried rosemary then set aside.
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a 12" cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add chicken thighs then sear until golden brown on one side, 1-2 minutes, searing in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Flip then sear until golden brown on the other side, and then transfer back to the plate - chicken does not need to be cooked through at this point.
- Remove skillet from heat then carefully add the bourbon - most of it should evaporate very quickly (use caution if you have a gas range as the alcohol could flame briefly.)
- Return skillet to the heat then add the maple syrup mixture.
- Turn heat up to bring the liquid to a simmer then turn heat down to medium and nestle the chicken back into the skillet.
- Loosely cover the skillet with a piece of foil then simmer until the sauce has reduced and the chicken is cooked through, 10 minutes, flipping the thighs in the sauce once or twice.
- Plate chicken then scoop sauce over the top and serve.
Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken: A Weeknight Delight
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken recipe has become a firm favorite in my household, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, impressive enough for company, and leaves you with enough leftovers for lunch the next day. The sweet and savory flavors, combined with the satisfying crunch of pecans, create a truly unforgettable meal.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It comes together quickly, and the result is a succulent, fall-off-the-bone chicken that's bursting with flavor. The bourbon adds a depth of richness that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. I usually use Maker's Mark, but feel free to experiment with your favorite bourbon. The maple syrup provides a lovely counterpoint to the bourbon, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy notes. I find this recipe remarkably versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. Perhaps you prefer a spicier kick – a pinch of cayenne pepper would do the trick. Or, if you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, consider swapping the chicken for firm tofu.
Ingredients and Preparation: The ingredient list is straightforward and easily accessible. I always make sure to have all my ingredients prepped and measured before I begin cooking, ensuring a smooth and efficient cooking process. The flour dredge adds a beautiful crispness to the chicken, a textural contrast against the tender, juicy meat. The pecan halves, finely chopped, provide a lovely crunch and a hint of nutty sweetness.
Cooking the Chicken: The cooking process is simple but requires attention to detail. Searing the chicken in the cast-iron skillet is crucial for developing that beautiful golden-brown crust. It’s best to work in batches to ensure even browning. Once the chicken has been seared, the magic happens when you add the maple bourbon sauce and let it simmer. The sauce reduces, coating the chicken in a luscious glaze that's both sweet and savory. Don’t be afraid to let the sauce reduce until it's thick and syrupy—it's the key to the dish's incredible flavor.
Serving Suggestions: I often serve this Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. The rich sauce is simply divine spooned over the potatoes! Sometimes I add a fresh green salad to lighten up the meal. The combination is both satisfying and well-balanced. This dish is truly a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to leave your family and friends asking for seconds. The leftovers are equally delicious, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch the next day. Try it, and I am confident it will become a staple in your dinner rotation too!
Beyond the Recipe: More than just a meal, this Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken represents a sense of comfort and satisfaction. The simple act of cooking, the aroma filling the kitchen, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones—these are the things that make life meaningful. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, taking time to prepare a meal like this is a small act of self-care and a way to connect with those you cherish. It’s a chance to slow down, appreciate the process, and savor the delicious results. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below! Happy cooking!
