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Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken: A Sweet Savory Delight

Experience the delight of Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken, a comfort dish that blends smoky bourbon, sweet maple, and crunchy pecans for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative.
  • 0.5 cups Flour Use gluten-free flour for a different option.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to your preference.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used in a pinch.
  • 0.5 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground is recommended.
For the Sauce
  • 0.25 cups Sugar Honey can be a natural alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with canola oil.
  • 0.5 cups Bourbon Whiskey Substitute with apple cider for a family-friendly version.
  • 0.5 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is preferred.
  • 0.5 cups Pecans Can omit for a nut-free dish.
  • 0.25 cups Real Maple Syrup Agave syrup can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be an alternative.
  • 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce Low-sodium options are healthier.
  • 1 tsp Dried Rosemary Fresh rosemary is a nice substitute.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Begin by patting the boneless skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Lightly dust with flour.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the seasoned chicken thighs, searing for about 5–7 minutes on each side until golden-brown.
  3. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and add bourbon, scraping up brown bits. Stir in chicken broth, minced garlic, sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, ensuring they are well-coated in the sauce. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  5. During the last couple of minutes, stir in pecans, allowing them to warm through and infuse the sauce.
  6. Plate the Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken, drizzling with sauce. Garnish with additional pecans or herbs. Serve alongside rice or steamed vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 10gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Serve immediately for the best experience; the sauce is most luscious and the pecans stay crunchy.

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