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Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders Recipe

Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crispy pecan-crusted chicken tenders bring Southern comfort to dinner tables with irresistible nutty crunch. Golden brown coating and juicy chicken center promise delightful flavors you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) chicken tenders
  • 1 cup (150 grams) raw pecans
  • 2 large eggs

Flour and Coating:

  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Seasoning:

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven at 400°F and arrange a parchment-lined baking sheet for optimal cooking surface.
  2. Transform pecans, almond flour, and spices into a fine, textured coating using a food processor, ensuring uniform consistency.
  3. Create an egg wash in a shallow container, whisking thoroughly to prepare for chicken coating.
  4. Carefully immerse each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off before transferring to the pecan mixture.
  5. Gently press the pecan coating onto the chicken, ensuring complete and even coverage for maximum crunch and flavor.
  6. Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining space between each piece for uniform heat circulation.
  7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, monitoring the golden-brown exterior and confirming internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow coating to set and juices to redistribute, enhancing overall texture and taste.

Notes

  • Choose raw pecans for the freshest, most robust flavor profile in your coating.
  • Pulse pecans carefully to avoid turning them into butter-like paste; aim for fine, even crumbs.
  • Add extra herbs like thyme or rosemary to the pecan mixture for more complex flavor depth.
  • Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature by using a meat thermometer for perfect doneness and food safety.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 310 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg