If you’re a fan of a crunchy, nutty coating that gives your chicken a flavorful twist, you’re in for a treat! Making baked pecan-crusted chicken fingers is not only a delightful culinary adventure but also a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version. Follow our easy step-by-step guide to create a dish that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Ingredients That Bring Flavor to Every Bite
The first step to creating these mouthwatering chicken fingers is gathering your ingredients. You’ll need 1 and 1/2 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breasts or tenders, 2 cups of pecan halves, 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon each of ground black pepper and smoked paprika, 2 large eggs, and optional chopped parsley for garnish. This combination of savory and nutty flavors will elevate your chicken fingers to a whole new level.
Crafting the Perfect Pecan Coating
Begin the culinary journey by setting out three medium-sized bowls. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and prepare a large baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, parchment paper, or a generous coating of nonstick spray. If you’re using chicken breasts, pound them down and cut them into strips. For chicken tenders, cut them in half lengthwise. Now, let’s dive into creating the pecan coating that will make your chicken fingers irresistible.
In the first medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of pecan halves (pulsed into fine crumbs), flour, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. In another bowl, pulse the remaining pecan halves into coarse crumbs. Whisk the eggs in the third bowl. This trio of bowls will be your assembly line for coating the chicken.
Coating and Baking for Crunchy Perfection
Take each chicken strip and coat it in the flour/ground pecan mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, and then generously roll it in the coarsely chopped pecans. Place the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, turn each piece over, and continue baking until the outside is crisp and the centers are thoroughly cooked—approximately 10 minutes more.
Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on your chicken fingers to ensure they are cooked to perfection. If you prefer a darker crust, extend the baking time slightly, but be cautious not to burn the pecans.
Once your baked pecan-crusted chicken fingers are out of the oven, enhance their presentation with a garnish of parsley. Serve them with honey mustard or your favorite condiment for a delightful flavor combination. These chicken fingers are perfect for a family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.
