Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

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; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons bourbon; 1 cup chicken broth; 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1/4 cup chopped pecans

Published: December 24, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
One-Skillet Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
Flavorful Glaze: The combination of maple syrup and bourbon creates a unique flavor that dazzles the palate.
Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy this dish without worrying about gluten; it’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, salad, or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having the right equipment on hand will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron skillet
Shallow dish
Medium-sized bowl
Whisk
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Cast iron skillet: Provides excellent heat retention and even cooking for the chicken.
Shallow dish: Perfect for dredging chicken thighs in flour, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Medium-sized bowl: Ideal for mixing together the flavorful sauce ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

To make Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

1-1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup gluten free flour
salt and pepper
2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

For the Sauce

2 Tablespoons bourbon (Maker’s Mark recommended)
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 if not GF)
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary (crushed between your fingers)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Add flour to a shallow dish then season generously with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken thigh in the seasoned flour then shake to remove excess and place onto a plate.

Step 2: Make the Sauce Mixture

In a medium-sized bowl whisk together chicken broth, maple syrup, chopped pecans, dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, gluten-free tamari, and dried rosemary then set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat extra virgin olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken thighs then sear until golden brown on one side for 1-2 minutes. Flip and sear until golden brown on the other side. Transfer back to the plate; chicken does not need to be cooked through at this point.

Step 4: Combine Bourbon and Sauce

Remove skillet from heat then carefully add bourbon – it will boil immediately from the heat of the skillet. Return skillet to heat then add sauce mixture. Turn heat up to bring liquid to simmer then turn down to medium and nestle chicken back into skillet. Loosely cover with foil and simmer until sauce has reduced and chicken is cooked through for about 10 minutes, flipping thighs in sauce once or twice.

Step 5: Serve

Plate chicken then scoop sauce over the top and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken!

How to Serve Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a delightful dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens: A simple salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
Apple Walnut Salad: This salad adds sweetness and crunch, enhancing the maple notes in the chicken.

Add Some Starch

Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf absorbs the sauce well and adds a comforting element to the dish.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a hearty base for the flavorful chicken.

Garnish Thoughtfully

Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Cranberry Sauce: A small dollop of cranberry sauce can add a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the dish.

How to Perfect Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

To ensure your Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

Use Quality Bourbon: The flavor of the bourbon significantly impacts the dish; choose a good quality bourbon for best results.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Searing in batches prevents steaming and ensures each piece gets that lovely golden brown color.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the simmering time; overcooking can make chicken dry. Aim for juicy, tender meat!
Let It Rest: Allowing cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken can enhance its flavors and create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing complements the chicken’s richness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a nutty flavor that pairs well with pecans.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast, making them an ideal companion.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a fresh crunch while balancing out the meal.
Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left on your plate.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings a refreshing bite that offsets the savory elements of the chicken.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds summer vibes and pairs beautifully with bourbon flavors.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent choice that soaks up all those tasty juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken thighs for too long can make them dry. Aim for a golden brown sear and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Neglecting the Seasoning: Failing to season the flour properly can lead to bland chicken. Be generous with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Using Pancake Syrup: Substituting pure maple syrup with pancake syrup will alter the taste significantly. Always choose high-quality pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
Crowding the Skillet: Adding too many chicken thighs at once can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect golden crust.
Skipping the Foil Cover: Not covering the skillet while simmering can result in uneven cooking. Use foil to trap heat and moisture, ensuring juicy chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
It can be stored for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a skillet over medium heat, then add chicken. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken?

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked in a sweet and savory sauce made from bourbon, maple syrup, and pecans. It’s quick, gluten-free, and bursting with flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. However, keep in mind that they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to prevent dryness.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

This recipe is already dairy-free as it does not include any dairy ingredients. Enjoy without any substitutions needed!

What side dishes pair well with Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The rich flavors complement lighter sides perfectly.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices or change nuts based on your preference. You could also experiment by adding fruits like apples or pears for extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Maple Bourbon Pecan Chicken is not only quick and easy but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your taste preferences, making it a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation. Try this recipe today and enjoy its deliciousness!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card