Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken: A Flavorful, Easy-to-Make Dish

Name: Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1-1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup gluten-free flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons bourbon; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup pecans, chopped; 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 2 teaspoons gluten-free reduced-sodium Tamari (or soy sauce); 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary

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Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a delectable, savory recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week. This one-skillet dish combines tender chicken thighs, rich maple syrup, bourbon, and toasted pecans, delivering a savory-sweet balance that’s truly irresistible. It’s an easy-to-make, gluten-free meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes—ideal for those who want a quick, mouthwatering dinner without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken stands out for its perfect blend of smoky, caramel-like bourbon, nutty pecans, and the deep sweetness of maple syrup. What makes this dish truly special is how quickly it comes together—just 20 minutes from start to finish. The chicken is seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a luscious sauce that infuses the meat with all the delicious flavors. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never disappoints.

Ingredients

For this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, they form the hearty base of the dish.
Gluten-Free Flour: Used to dredge the chicken thighs, adding a light crispy exterior.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of the chicken.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken, imparting a subtle richness.
Bourbon: Adds depth and a subtle caramel flavor to the sauce.
Chicken Broth: Provides a savory base for the sauce.
Chopped Pecans: These add a delightful crunch and a toasty flavor that pairs perfectly with the maple syrup.
Maple Syrup: The key to the dish’s sweet-savory balance, giving it a smooth, rich flavor.
Dijon Mustard: Brings tanginess to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a slight acidity to brighten up the sauce.
Gluten-Free Tamari: A gluten-free soy sauce that adds umami.
Dried Rosemary: A fragrant herb that complements the richness of the bourbon and maple syrup.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand or have dietary preferences, here are a few alternatives:

Chicken Thighs: You can swap them for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind that chicken thighs remain juicier and more tender in this recipe.
Maple Syrup: For a more subtle sweetness, you could try using honey or agave syrup.
Pecans: Walnuts or almonds can be used if you don’t have pecans, although they will slightly change the flavor profile.
Tamari: If you’re not concerned about gluten-free ingredients, regular soy sauce works just fine in this recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare this incredible Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken:

Begin by adding gluten-free flour to a shallow dish. Season generously with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken thighs in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, and set them aside on a plate.
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, chopped pecans, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, tamari (or soy sauce), and dried rosemary. Set the sauce mixture aside.
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs and sear them for 1-2 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip the thighs and sear the other side until golden brown as well.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Take the skillet off the heat, and carefully pour in the bourbon. Be cautious, as the bourbon will immediately bubble up from the heat of the skillet.
Return the skillet to medium heat and pour in the maple syrup mixture. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet.
Loosely cover the skillet with foil and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time.
Serve the Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken with mashed potatoes, drizzling the sauce over the top. Enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

Avoid Overcooking: Chicken thighs are forgiving and will not dry out easily. Simmer them until the sauce has thickened and the meat is tender for the best results.
Flavors: You can experiment by adding a bit of garlic or fresh herbs like thyme or sage to the sauce to create a more complex flavor profile.
Make-Ahead: This dish can be made ahead by prepping the sauce and chicken separately, then combining them just before cooking.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, as the creamy texture complements the rich, flavorful sauce. For a lighter side, try an arugula salad with lemon and parmesan, which balances the richness of the dish.

If you’re looking for variations, consider adding a touch of spice by incorporating chili flakes or sriracha into the sauce. For a gluten-free option, make sure to pair the chicken with gluten-free sides like quinoa or roasted vegetables.

Seasonal Twist: Fall Flavor

The combination of bourbon, pecans, and maple syrup makes this recipe perfect for fall or winter dinners. The sweet and savory profile works wonderfully with seasonal produce like roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts.

Conclusion

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a deliciously unique dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of bold flavors. With the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and nutty elements, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this one-skillet meal proves that great flavors don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Don’t forget to serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp salad to complete the meal. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as a substitute for chicken thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts can dry out more easily than thighs. To avoid this, ensure that you don’t overcook them and that the sauce is well-simmered to keep them moist.

What type of bourbon should I use in this recipe?

For the best flavor, it’s recommended to use a good-quality bourbon such as Maker’s Mark, which complements the sweetness of the maple syrup and enhances the richness of the dish. However, if you don’t have bourbon, you can also use a non-alcoholic bourbon substitute or a splash of apple juice for a similar depth of flavor.

Can I make Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store the sauce separately and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the sauce, sear the chicken, and finish simmering the dish. It’s perfect for meal prep or making ahead for busy days.

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