Save to Pinterest Tender chicken bites coated in a crunchy pecan crust and glazed with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon sauce are perfect for appetizers or as a flavorful main dish. This easy, gluten-free option delivers big taste with minimal effort for your next gathering or family meal.
I first made these chicken bites for a weekend family movie night, and they disappeared in minutes. Even picky eaters loved dipping into the sweet maple Dijon sauce, making it a requested favorite in our kitchen.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 500 g (1.1 lb), cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) pieces
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Pecans: 120 g (1 cup), finely chopped
- Bread crumbs: 60 g (1/2 cup), gluten-free or regular
- Parmesan cheese (optional): 20 g (2 tbsp), grated
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- All-purpose or gluten-free flour: 40 g (1/3 cup)
- Eggs: 2 large, beaten
- Maple syrup: 60 ml (1/4 cup), pure
- Dijon mustard: 2 tbsp
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tsp
- Salt (pinch): for sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- Season Chicken:
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Prepare Coating:
- Set up three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with flour, Bowl 2 with beaten eggs, Bowl 3 with pecans, breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), and smoked paprika mixed together.
- Bread Chicken:
- Dip each chicken piece first in flour, then in egg, then coat thoroughly in pecan breadcrumb mixture. Place on baking sheet.
- Bake Chicken:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway, until chicken is cooked through and crust is golden brown.
- Make Maple Dijon Sauce:
- While chicken bakes, whisk maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, vinegar, and pinch of salt in small saucepan. Warm over low heat 2–3 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
- Serve:
- Serve chicken bites warm, drizzled with or dipped in maple Dijon sauce.
Save to Pinterest These chicken bites have become a fun tradition during holidays, with everyone crowding around to dip and share together. My kids love helping coat the chicken before baking.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowls, whisk, small saucepan, knife, and cutting board are needed for preparation.
Allergen Information
Contains tree nuts (pecans), eggs, and milk (if using Parmesan). Gluten is present if not using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 370 calories, 20 g total fat, 21 g carbohydrates, and 28 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Finish with a drizzle of warm maple Dijon sauce and enjoy! This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Chardonnay or sparkling apple cider.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of gluten-free?
Yes, regular breadcrumbs work well, but using gluten-free options makes this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → How do I get the crust extra crunchy?
Toasting the pecans before chopping enhances their crunch and adds depth to the crust's texture.
- → Is it possible to prepare the sauce in advance?
The maple Dijon sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated before serving for convenience.
- → What pairs well with these chicken bites?
A crisp Chardonnay or sparkling apple cider complements the sweet and tangy glaze beautifully.
- → Can I bake the chicken bites instead of frying?
Baking at 200°C (400°F) yields a golden crust while keeping the chicken tender inside without extra oil.