## Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Cranberry Sauce: A Savory-Sweet Delight 🍗🍒
### Introduction
Looking for a delectable dish with a perfect blend of crunchy textures and tangy flavor? Look no further! Our Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Cranberry Sauce is a mouthwatering combination that you must try.
### Why make this recipe
Everyone loves a good, hearty chicken dish and this recipe takes a regular chicken dinner up a notch! The pecan crust gives the chicken an enticing texture, while cranberry sauce adds a lovely tanginess, making it an ideal choice for main course!
### How to make Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Cranberry Sauce
#### Ingredients
For the chicken
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 2 tbsp milk
– 2 tbsp olive oil
For the cranberry sauce
– 1 cup fresh cranberries
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Zest of 1 orange
#### Directions
1. Start by preheating oven to 375°F (190°C). Combine pecans, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper in a bowl.
2. Whisk the eggs and milk together in another bowl.
3. Dip the chicken into the egg mix and coat with pecan mix.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-proof skillet, sear the chicken until golden.
5. Transfer the skillet and bake the chicken in the oven for 20-25 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, water, and orange zest in a saucepan to make the sauce.
7. Boil it and then simmer until it thickens.
8. Serve the pecan-crusted chicken with the cranberry sauce.
### How to serve Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Cranberry Sauce
Garnish the pecan-crusted chicken with fresh herbs (if you like) before ladling hot cranberry sauce on top. Pair this with a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad for a pleasing plate!
### How to store Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Cranberry Sauce
You can refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cranberry sauce can be stored separately for up to 1 week.
### Tips to make Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Cranberry Sauce
– Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the pecan mix.
– Cook the chicken on medium heat to prevent the pecan crust from burning.
– You can adjust the sweetness of the cranberry sauce according to your liking.
### Variation
You can try almond-crusted chicken for a little twist.
### FAQs
1. **Can I use dried cranberries instead of the fresh ones?**
Absolutely, just keep in mind that dried cranberries might make your sauce sweeter.
2. **Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?**
Yes, adjust the cooking time as chicken thighs might take a bit longer to cook.
3. **Can I make this recipe ahead of time?**
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead and store them separately.
Indulge in this delicious recipe of Pecan-Crusted Chicken with Cranberry Sauce and let the blend of savory and sweet flavors take you over! 🍗🍒 Enjoy!