Crunchy Nutty Chicken Dinner (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken

01 - Boneless skinless chicken breasts (4, about 2 pounds)
02 - Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon)
03 - Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)

→ Dredging Stations

04 - All-purpose flour (1/2 cup)
05 - Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon)
06 - Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
07 - Large eggs (2)
08 - Hot sauce (2 tablespoons)
09 - Dijon mustard (3 tablespoons)

→ Crust

10 - Pecans (1 1/3 cups, finely chopped)
11 - Panko breadcrumbs (3/4 cup)

→ Honey Mustard Sauce

12 - Dijon mustard (1/4 cup)
13 - Mayonnaise (1/4 cup)
14 - Honey (2 tablespoons)
15 - Ground cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and top with a wire rack sprayed with cooking spray.
02 - Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness. Pat dry with paper towels and season on all sides with salt and pepper.
03 - Set up three shallow dishes: first with flour, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper; second with whisked eggs, hot sauce, and mustard; third with chopped pecans and breadcrumbs.
04 - Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg mixture, then press into pecan and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even coating on all sides.
05 - Place coated chicken on the prepared wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
06 - While chicken bakes, whisk together Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, honey, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
07 - Let chicken rest briefly, then serve with honey mustard dipping sauce.

# Notes:

01 - Alternative cooking method: Air fryer at 360°F for 12-13 minutes
02 - Chicken can be pounded to ensure even cooking
03 - Sauce can be prepared ahead of time