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Walnut Chicken

crusted chicken

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
  • Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  3. For enhanced flavor, toast the walnuts on a baking sheet for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
  4. In a food processor, pulse the walnuts until coarsely ground but not paste-like.
  5. Transfer ground walnuts to a bowl and mix with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and any optional flavor enhancers.
  6. If using Dijon mustard, brush a thin layer onto the chicken first to help the walnut mixture adhere better.
  7. Press the walnut mixture firmly onto all sides of each chicken breast, creating an even coating.
  8. Place the coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between pieces.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  11. Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For best results, toast the walnuts before creating the coating mixture to enhance their flavor.
  • Make sure your chicken is completely dry before applying the coating for better adhesion.
  • A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure perfectly cooked chicken.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: walnut chicken, walnut crusted chicken, chicken walnut sauce, nutty chicken dinner, walnut chicken salad