This versatile recipe yields juicy, tender chicken or fish with a crunchy, nutty pecan coating. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special.
15 min prep
15 min cook
4 servings
420 kcal/serving
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each) or 4 firm white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia, 6 oz each)
1 cup pecans
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a food processor, pulse pecans until finely chopped (but not a paste). Transfer to a shallow dish and mix with panko, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and honey.
Pat chicken or fish dry with paper towels. Brush each piece evenly with the honey-mustard mixture.
Press each piece into the pecan mixture, coating all sides. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle olive oil over the coated pieces.
Bake for 12-15 minutes for fish (or until fish flakes easily) or 18-22 minutes for chicken (or until internal temperature reaches 165°F).
Let rest 2 minutes before serving.
Tips
For extra crunch, spray the coated pieces with cooking spray before baking.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.