Save Tender chicken bites coated in a crunchy pecan crust and glazed with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon sauce create an appetizer or main dish your guests will ask for again and again. Impress with this easy, flavor-packed recipe that combines American comfort with gluten-free options for a crowd-pleasing treat.
I first made these chicken bites for a family gathering, and they disappeared so fast I had to make a second batch. The maple Dijon sauce gives just the right balance of sweet and tangy, and it became an instant favorite, especially with my kids.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 500 g (1.1 lb), cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) pieces
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Pecans: 120 g (1 cup), finely chopped
- Breadcrumbs: 60 g (1/2 cup), gluten-free or regular
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): 20 g (2 tbsp)
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- All-purpose or gluten-free flour: 40 g (1/3 cup)
- Large eggs: 2, beaten
- Pure maple syrup: 60 ml (1/4 cup)
- Dijon mustard: 2 tbsp
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tsp
- Salt (for sauce): pinch
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Breading Stations:
- Arrange three shallow bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of chopped pecans, breadcrumbs, Parmesan if using, and smoked paprika in the third.
- Bread the Chicken Pieces:
- Dip each chicken piece first in flour, then in egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the pecan breadcrumb mixture. Place on baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, turning halfway, until chicken is cooked through and crust is golden brown.
- Prepare Maple Dijon Sauce:
- While chicken bakes, whisk maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring until slightly thickened.
- Serve:
- Chicken bites are best served warm, drizzled or dipped in the maple Dijon sauce.
Save My sister helped me prep these one holiday, and we had fun assembling the breading station and sneaking bites of the crusty pecans. This recipe always brings our family together in the kitchen.
Required Tools
You will need a baking sheet, parchment paper, three mixing bowls, a whisk, a small saucepan, and a knife and cutting board for preparation.
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (pecans), eggs, and milk (if Parmesan is used). To keep gluten-free, ensure flour and breadcrumbs are appropriate and always verify ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 370 calories, 20 g fat, 21 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein for a satisfying and balanced dish.
Save Enjoy these chicken bites warm with maple Dijon sauce and pair them with a crisp salad or serve as a festive appetizer at your next celebration.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the pecan crust stays crunchy?
To keep the crust crunchy, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and baking, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet so air can circulate evenly.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the breadcrumbs and flour with gluten-free options to keep the dish gluten-free without compromising texture.
- → What is the best way to apply the maple Dijon sauce?
Drizzle the warm sauce over the baked chicken bites or serve on the side for dipping to maintain the crisp crust.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken bites in advance and refrigerate for a few hours before baking to save prep time.
- → What drinks pair well with these chicken bites?
Crisp Chardonnay or sparkling apple cider complement the sweet and tangy flavors perfectly.