Pecan-Crusted Chicken Breast

This chicken dish takes just 8 minutes of prep time, 20 minutes in the oven, and voila! The result is actually impressive enough to serve for a special occasion but comforting enough to pair with your comfy clothes. You’ll enjoy the homestyle crunchiness from the pecans along with a hint of natural sweetness and spiciness. Serve it with a harvest salad and sweet potato fries.
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- Prep time
- 8 min
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- Cook time
- 20 min
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- Servings
- 4 Servings
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- Serving size
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1 breast (about 5 oz)
Ingredients
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pecan pieces
- 1/2 cup
- 1/2 cup
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boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 (6-oz) breasts
- 4 (6-oz) breasts
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unsweetened applesauce
- 3 tbsp
- 3 tbsp
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spicy brown mustard
- 1 tbsp
- 1 tbsp
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sea salt
- 1/4 tsp
- 1/4 tsp
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Directions
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Preheat the oven to 425° F. Prep a large rimmed baking sheet. For easier cleanup and less sticking, line with parchment paper (optional).
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Place the pecans in a food processor. Pulse until they look like breadcrumbs. Transfer to a rimmed plate.
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Place the chicken on the baking sheet. In a small bowl, stir together the applesauce and mustard. Spoon the applesauce-mustard mixture on top of each breast, spreading it evenly with the back of the spoon. Firmly press the applesauce-mustard side of each chicken breast into the pecans. Place the chicken back on the baking sheet, pecan-crusted side up. Sprinkle any remaining pecans on the chicken; press to adhere. Sprinkle with salt.
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Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165° F. Divide among four dinner plates and serve.