Imagine sinking your teeth into a succulent chicken breast, perfectly coated with a crunchy, nutty pignoli crust that takes your taste buds on an unforgettable Italian journey! This Chicken with Pignoli Crust recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will impress your family and friends alike. With just a few simple ingredients and a cooking time of under 35 minutes, you can elevate your weeknight dinners to gourmet status. Ready to transform your dinner table into a delightful Italian feast? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup pignoli nuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and the crust becomes golden and crispy.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the crust adhere better to the chicken.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pignoli nuts, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. This step adds flavor and helps to lock in moisture.
- Once the chicken is browned, remove the skillet from the heat. Spoon the pignoli nut mixture generously over the top of each chicken breast, pressing down gently to ensure the crust adheres.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite.
- Serve the chicken with your choice of sides, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Chicken with Pignoli Crust!
Tips
- Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in the final dish.
- Customize Your Crust: Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the pignoli nut mixture, such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning, for an extra layer of flavor.
- Sear for Perfection: Don’t skip the searing step! This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to lock in moisture, resulting in juicy chicken.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe and delicious results.
- Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps keep it tender and juicy. This is a crucial step that shouldn’t be overlooked!
- Pair with Sides: Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the crust and create a well-rounded meal.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of additional fresh parsley not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
