Save to Pinterest Tender chicken bites coated in a crunchy pecan crust and glazed with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon sauce make this dish perfect for appetizers or a flavorful main course. It’s easy, gluten-free adaptable, and ready in just 40 minutes.
I first made these Pecan-Crusted Maple Dijon Chicken Bites for a game night with friends. They disappeared quickly, and everyone kept asking for the recipe. It's now a family favorite whenever we want something a little special but still easy to make.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 500 g (1.1 lb), cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) pieces
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Pecans: 120 g (1 cup), finely chopped
- Gluten-free or regular breadcrumbs: 60 g (1/2 cup)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): 20 g (2 tbsp)
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- All-purpose or gluten-free flour: 40 g (1/3 cup)
- Large eggs: 2, beaten
- Pure maple syrup: 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Dijon mustard: 2 tbsp
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tsp
- Salt (for sauce): Pinch
Instructions
- Prep Oven and Sheet:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- Season Chicken:
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Prepare Bowls:
- Set out three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of chopped pecans, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), and smoked paprika.
- Breading Process:
- Dip each chicken piece into flour, then egg, then coat thoroughly in the pecan breadcrumb mixture. Place on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Chicken:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway, until chicken is cooked through and crust is golden brown.
- Make Sauce:
- While chicken bakes, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
- Serve:
- Serve chicken bites warm, drizzled with or dipped in the maple Dijon sauce.
Save to Pinterest We love serving these for family movie nights. Even picky eaters enjoy dipping the chicken bites in the sweet maple sauce together around the dinner table.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, three mixing bowls, a whisk, small saucepan, knife, and cutting board are all needed for easy preparation.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains tree nuts (pecans), eggs, and milk (if using Parmesan). Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if you need to avoid gluten.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 370 calories, 20 g total fat, 21 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Serve warm for the best texture and flavor. These chicken bites make an impressive starter or a fun weeknight main course.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of gluten-free?
Yes, regular breadcrumbs work well; just ensure they complement the pecan crust without overpowering its texture.
- → How do I make the pecan crust crispier?
To enhance crunch, lightly toast chopped pecans before mixing them with breadcrumbs and cheese.
- → Is it necessary to bake the chicken or can it be fried?
Baking allows even cooking and a crunchy crust with less oil, but pan-frying can be used for a quicker finish.
- → Can I substitute honey for maple syrup in the sauce?
Yes, honey provides a similar sweetness while offering a slightly different flavor profile.
- → What side dishes pair well with these chicken bites?
Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Chardonnay complement the savory and sweet flavors nicely.
- → How long can leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently to preserve the crust's texture.