Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with a hint of sweetness. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, bringing an irresistible taste to your table in just 20 minutes. With its easy preparation and luscious sauce, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since all cooking takes place in one skillet.
• Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy this dish without worry, as it’s gluten-free and made with safe ingredients.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of maple syrup and pecans creates a unique flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving at family gatherings or a cozy dinner date.

Tools and Preparation

To create the Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Shallow dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Excellent heat retention ensures even cooking, which is key for perfectly seared chicken.
• Shallow dish: Ideal for dredging chicken thighs in flour, allowing for an even coating that enhances crispiness.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1-1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup gluten-free flour
• salt and pepper

For the Sauce

• 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup pecans (chopped)
• 3 Tablespoons pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup)
• 1 Tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons gluten-free reduced-sodium Tamari (or soy sauce if not GF)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary (crushed between your fingers)

How to Make Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Add flour to a shallow dish and generously season it with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge each chicken thigh in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess flour. Place them on a plate.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together chicken broth, maple syrup, chopped pecans, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, gluten-free tamari, and dried rosemary. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat extra virgin olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
2. Add chicken thighs to the skillet; sear until golden brown on one side for 1-2 minutes. Do this in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
3. Flip the thighs and sear until golden brown on the other side, then transfer back to the plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Remove the skillet from heat and carefully add the bourbon substitute (for flavor).
2. Return the skillet to heat and pour in the maple syrup mixture.
3. Turn up the heat to bring it to a simmer before reducing it back to medium heat.

Step 4: Cook Through

1. Nestle the chicken back into the sauce while loosely covering with foil.
2. Simmer until the sauce reduces and chicken is cooked through (approximately 10 minutes), flipping thighs once or twice during cooking.

Step 5: Serve

Plate your delicious Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken, spooning extra sauce over the top before serving! Enjoy this delightful meal that brings warmth to any occasion!

How to Serve Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy family dinner, here are some great serving suggestions.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly, balancing the richness of the chicken.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy jasmine or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. The rice adds a nice texture and makes for a hearty meal.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the flavors of the dish.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. It’s an easy way to enhance the dining experience.

As a Sandwich

• Leftover Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken makes for an excellent sandwich filling. Add some greens and your favorite condiments for a delightful lunch option.

How to Perfect Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

To ensure your Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken turns out amazing every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Chicken: Select fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary. This allows for even cooking and a nice golden-brown crust.
• Monitor Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce as it simmers; it should reduce without becoming too thick. Adjust heat if necessary.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain its juices and enhances flavor.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or sage for an extra layer of flavor in your sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a comforting side that complements the savory chicken well.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon dressing adds freshness and nutrition to your meal.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus lightly steamed allows its natural flavor to shine while adding color to your plate.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that enhances the maple flavors in the chicken dish.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw with cabbage and carrots dressed in apple cider vinegar adds crunch and tanginess to balance the richness of the chicken.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative that’s both healthy and delicious alongside this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid pitfalls.

• Boldly season your chicken: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Ensure that you generously season the flour with salt and pepper before dredging the chicken.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet: Placing too many chicken thighs in the skillet at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary for an even golden crust.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices. This step enhances flavor and texture.
• Be cautious with the heat: Cooking on too high heat can burn the sauce before the chicken is fully cooked. Maintain a steady medium heat for optimal results.
• Use fresh ingredients: Old or stale spices and ingredients can compromise taste. Always opt for fresh items for the best flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken that may help you prepare this dish successfully.

Can I make Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken without alcohol?

Yes! Substitute bourbon with additional chicken broth or apple cider vinegar for a flavorful alternative.

What can I serve with Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken?

Serve this dish with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that complements its rich flavors.

How can I customize my Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken?

Feel free to add different nuts or fruits such as walnuts or cranberries to enhance texture and flavor!

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Final Thoughts

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and quick to prepare. With options for customization, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and you may find it becoming a regular favorite!

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Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a succulent dish that marries savory chicken thighs with the delightful sweetness of maple syrup and the crunch of pecans. This quick recipe, ready in just 20 minutes, is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The one-skillet preparation means minimal cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends. With its mouthwatering flavor profile and gluten-free ingredients, this meal is sure to impress everyone at the table.

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Ingredients

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• 1–1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup gluten-free flour
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons gluten-free reduced-sodium tamari
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Season flour with salt and pepper in a shallow dish. Dredge chicken thighs in the mixture.
2. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
3. In a separate bowl, combine chicken broth, maple syrup, pecans, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, tamari, and rosemary.
4. Pour sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Nestle seared chicken back into the sauce.
5. Cover loosely with foil and simmer for about 10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg