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Air Fryer Pecan-Crusted Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 47 reviews

This Air Fryer Pecan-Crusted Chicken recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful meal in under 40 minutes. Tender chicken breast cutlets are marinated in a zesty blend of Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian herbs, then coated with a crunchy pecan and panko breadcrumb crust. The air fryer creates a perfectly golden, juicy chicken with less oil and mess, making it a quick and healthy alternative to frying. Serve with a fresh salad or your favorite side dish for a satisfying dinner.

  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 lb chicken breast fillets (cut into cutlets)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tsp dried Italian herbs
  • ½ tsp salt

Coating

  • ½ cup pecan halves
  • 4 tbsp panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and dried Italian herbs until well combined. Add the chicken cutlets, toss them thoroughly to coat, cover the bowl, and let them marinate for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Prepare the Pecan Coating: Finely chop the pecan halves and combine them with the panko breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl. This mixture will add a crunchy, nutty crust to the chicken.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Take each marinated chicken cutlet and dredge it in the pecan-panko mixture, pressing gently on both sides to ensure an even and firm coating.
  4. Air Fry the Chicken: Place the coated chicken cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to start crisping the crust and cooking the chicken through.
  5. Flip and Continue Cooking: Carefully flip the chicken cutlets and air fry for an additional 7–8 minutes until the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your choice of sides such as a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  7. Optional Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 380°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the coated chicken on the sheet and bake for 10 minutes per side, flipping halfway through, until crispy and fully cooked.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh pecans and chop them finely to ensure they stick well to the chicken.
  • Marinating the chicken for 15 minutes enhances flavor but can be done up to 2 hours ahead for more intensity.
  • Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even air circulation and crisping.
  • The optional oven baking method is a good alternative if you don’t have an air fryer.
  • Check for doneness by ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/air-fryer-pecan-crusted-chicken-recipe/