Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Crispy Recipe

Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders: Prepare to experience a delightful twist on a classic comfort food! Forget the same old breaded chicken; we’re elevating the humble chicken tender to gourmet status with a crunchy, nutty coating that will have everyone begging for more. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, tender chicken enveloped in a perfectly crisp pecan crust – it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that’s simply irresistible.

While the exact origins of crusted chicken are difficult to pinpoint, the concept of coating meat in nuts and seeds has been around for centuries, appearing in various cultures worldwide. This particular recipe draws inspiration from Southern cuisine, where pecans are a beloved staple. The pecan, native to North America, has been a significant food source for indigenous peoples for generations and continues to be celebrated in countless dishes.

What makes these Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders so universally appealing? It’s the perfect combination of satisfying crunch, savory chicken, and the subtle sweetness of pecans. They’re incredibly easy to make, making them ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even a sophisticated appetizer. Plus, the pecan crust adds a healthy dose of protein and good fats, making this a guilt-free indulgence you can feel good about serving. Get ready to transform your chicken tender game forever!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick strips
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for cooking
• Optional: Honey mustard, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce, for serving

Preparing the Pecan Crust

Okay, let’s get started with the most important part – that delicious pecan crust! This is what’s going to make our chicken tenders stand out from the crowd. We’re aiming for a crispy, flavorful coating that perfectly complements the tender chicken inside.

1. Toast the Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast them in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily. Toasting the pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their nutty flavor, which is crucial for a great crust. Let the pecans cool completely before proceeding.
2. Pulse the Pecans: Once the pecans are cool, place them in a food processor. Pulse until they are finely ground, but be careful not to over-process them into pecan butter! You want a texture that resembles coarse breadcrumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, you can use a resealable bag and a rolling pin to crush the pecans. Just make sure they are finely ground for the best results.
3. Combine the Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the ground pecans, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture is the heart and soul of our pecan crust, so make sure everything is nicely combined. The panko breadcrumbs add extra crispness, while the Parmesan cheese provides a savory, cheesy note.

Preparing the Chicken

Now that our pecan crust is ready, let’s move on to preparing the chicken. We want to make sure the chicken is properly seasoned and ready to be coated in that amazing pecan mixture.

1. Prepare the Chicken Strips: If you haven’t already, cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch thick strips. Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels. This will help the flour adhere better.
2. Set up the Breading Station: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, place the beaten eggs. In the third dish, place the pecan crust mixture. This assembly line will make the breading process much smoother and more efficient.
3. Bread the Chicken: Take each chicken strip and dredge it in the flour, making sure to coat it completely. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip the floured chicken strip into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, dredge the chicken strip in the pecan crust mixture, pressing gently to help the crust adhere. Make sure the chicken is completely covered in the pecan crust. Place the breaded chicken strips on a clean plate or baking sheet.

Cooking the Chicken Tenders

Alright, we’re almost there! Now it’s time to cook those pecan-crusted chicken tenders to golden-brown perfection. We’ll be pan-frying them for a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to cook the chicken evenly, but not so hot that it burns the pecan crust. A good way to test the oil is to drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil. If it sizzles and turns golden brown in about 30 seconds, the oil is ready.
2. Cook the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken strips in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Remove and Drain: Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will help keep the chicken tenders crispy.

Serving and Enjoying

Congratulations, you’ve made delicious pecan-crusted chicken tenders! Now it’s time to serve them up and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

1. Serve Immediately: Serve the pecan-crusted chicken tenders immediately while they are still warm and crispy.
2. Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or sweet chili sauce. The possibilities are endless!
3. Sides: These chicken tenders are great served with a variety of sides, such as french fries, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
4. Storage: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for the best results.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cooking the chicken in batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping too low, which can result in soggy chicken.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other spices to your liking.
• Get Creative with the Crust: Experiment with different nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, or add other seasonings like dried herbs or chili powder.

Variations

• Baked Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders: For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of pan-frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders: Air frying is another great way to cook these chicken tenders. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for pecan-crusted chicken tenders! They’re a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders are more than just a meal; they’re a delightful experience waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their chicken game. The combination of the crispy, nutty pecan crust and the juicy, tender chicken inside is simply irresistible. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will have your taste buds singing!

But why is this recipe so special? It’s not just about the taste (though that’s a huge part of it!). It’s about the ease of preparation. We’re talking minimal ingredients, straightforward instructions, and a relatively quick cooking time. Even on a busy weeknight, you can whip up a batch of these delectable tenders and have a satisfying and delicious dinner on the table in no time. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike will devour these, making it a perfect option for family meals or casual gatherings.

And the best part? The versatility! While I’ve shared my go-to method, there’s plenty of room for customization. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pecan mixture for a subtle kick. Want to make it even healthier? Use whole wheat flour or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces. Honey mustard is a classic pairing, but ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a creamy avocado dip would be equally delicious.

For serving suggestions, these Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders are fantastic on their own as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce. But they also shine as part of a complete meal. Try serving them with a side of roasted vegetables, like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. A simple salad with a light vinaigrette would also be a refreshing complement. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, pair them with some crispy french fries or creamy mashed potatoes.

Another fun idea is to use these tenders in a chicken tender salad. Simply slice them up and toss them with mixed greens, your favorite toppings, and a flavorful dressing. You could also use them to make chicken tender wraps or sandwiches. The possibilities are endless!

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe. It’s a winner in my book, and I know it will be in yours too. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven (or get your skillet ready), and prepare to be amazed.

I’m incredibly excited for you to try these Pecan Crusted Chicken Tenders. Once you do, please, please, please come back and share your experience! Let me know what you thought of the recipe, what variations you tried, and what dipping sauces you paired them with. I love hearing from you and learning about your culinary adventures. Your feedback helps me improve my recipes and inspire other readers. So, don’t be shy – share your thoughts in the comments below! Happy cooking!