Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious dinner that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen, then you’ve come to the right place! Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is one of those recipes I adore sharing with family and friends. It’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to whip up on busy weeknights or for a cozy family gathering. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet.

This recipe is truly a gem—perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day. The combination of maple syrup and pecans gives the chicken a sweet, nutty glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your meal!
• Family-Friendly Flavors: The rich, sweet glaze is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Gluten-Free Goodness: This dish accommodates gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and reheat for an easy lunch or dinner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create this delightful dish. Let’s gather what we need for our Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken!

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
• 2 Tablespoons bourbon (you can substitute with additional chicken broth if preferred)
• 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)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, so feel free to play around with different ingredients based on what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer a leaner cut.
• Add veggies: Toss in some seasonal veggies like bell peppers or green beans for extra color and nutrition.
• Nut alternatives: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try walnuts or even sunflower seeds for crunch.
• Sweeten it differently: Experiment with honey or agave syrup as an alternative to maple syrup.

How to Make Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Flour Coating

Start by adding flour to a shallow dish, seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken thigh in this seasoned flour. This step not only helps develop a lovely crust when searing but also enhances the overall flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat extra virgin olive oil in a 12 cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your chicken thighs and sear them until golden brown on one side—this usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Searing adds depth of flavor through caramelization. After flipping them to brown the other side, transfer the chicken back to the plate; they don’t need to be fully cooked yet.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Remove your skillet from heat before carefully adding bourbon (if using). It will bubble up delightfully! Return it to heat and add your whisked together sauce mixture of chicken broth, maple syrup, chopped pecans, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, gluten-free tamari, and dried rosemary. Bring this delicious concoction to a simmer before nestling your chicken back into the skillet.

Step 4: Simmer Until Done

Loosely cover the skillet with foil and let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld while cooking your chicken through perfectly. Don’t forget to flip those thighs once or twice in the sauce—it keeps them juicy!

Step 5: Serve It Up

Plate your succulent chicken pieces and scoop that luscious sauce over the top. Trust me; you’ll want every last drop! Enjoy this delightful Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken with your favorite sides or by itself—it’s simply irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Cooking can be a breeze, especially when you have a few helpful tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality maple syrup enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients bring vibrancy and depth that can elevate even the simplest recipes.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Searing the chicken in batches prevents steaming and ensures a nice golden crust. This caramelization adds a rich flavor that makes the dish truly irresistible.

• Let the Sauce Simmer: Give your sauce time to reduce properly for a thicker consistency. A well-reduced sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, making each bite more flavorful.

• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning levels according to your preference. Cooking is all about personalizing flavors, so don’t hesitate to add a little more salt or pepper if needed!

• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain moisture. This small step makes sure each bite is juicy and delicious.

How to Serve Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Serving up Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken can be just as delightful as cooking it! Here are some ideas on how to present this scrumptious dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds color and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Toasted Pecans: A few extra toasted pecans on top provide an appealing crunch and enhance the nutty flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the sweetness of the maple syrup, creating a comforting combination.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy veggies add a touch of earthiness and their slight bitterness pairs beautifully with the sweet sauce.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh vegetables offers a refreshing contrast and boosts nutrition, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Green Beans Almondine: Tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds create a lovely crunch and vibrant color, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Enjoy crafting your meal with these serving suggestions, and watch as your Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken steals the show at any dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights. You can easily prepare the dish in advance and enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When storing, make sure to separate the chicken from the sauce if you prefer to keep them separate.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the chicken and sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken that might help you out!

Can I make Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken without bourbon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bourbon with apple juice or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water for a similar flavor profile.

How long does it take to cook Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken?

This recipe is quite efficient, taking only about 20 minutes to cook once you’ve prepared your ingredients!

Is Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free flour and tamari (or soy sauce if not needing it gluten-free), this dish is entirely gluten-free.

What sides pair well with Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken?

Consider serving this delicious chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken as I am! It’s not just quick and easy; it’s also bursting with flavor that will leave your family asking for seconds. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish, and don’t hesitate to share your own variations or experiences. Happy cooking!