This Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe is made with chicken breasts, buttermilk, walnuts, flour, thyme, garlic powder, and honey.
We're diving into the realm of delightful flavors with a recipe that will tantalize your taste buds: Honey Walnut Chicken. This dish combines the succulent tenderness of chicken breast with the crunchy texture of walnuts, elevated by a touch of sweetness from golden honey. With a medley of aromatic spices and the creamy tang of goat cheese, this recipe promises to be a harmonious symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Air Fried Coconut Chicken or my Air Fried Chicken Fries.
Jump to:
- What is Honey Walnut Chicken?
- Why you will love this Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe
- Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe Ingredients
- How to make Honey Walnut Chicken
- What to serve with Honey Walnut Chicken
- Substitutions
- Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe Variations
- Equipment
- How to store Honey Walnut Chicken
- Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe Top tips
- Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe
- Food safety
What is Honey Walnut Chicken?
Honey walnut chicken is a delicious dish that features chicken coated with a crunchy and flavorful walnut crust, complemented by a sweet honey glaze. It is a fusion of textures and flavors, combining the tenderness of chicken with the crunch of walnuts and the natural sweetness of honey. The chicken is typically marinated in buttermilk to enhance its juiciness and then coated with a mixture of finely chopped walnuts, flour, and spices like thyme and garlic powder. After searing the chicken to create a golden crust, it is baked until fully cooked and tender. The final touch involves drizzling honey over the chicken to add a luscious glaze. The combination of savory, nutty, and sweet elements creates a delightful harmony in each bite, making honey walnut chicken a popular and satisfying dish for any occasion.
Why you will love this Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The marriage of flavors in honey walnut chicken is exceptional. The natural sweetness of honey complements the nutty richness of walnuts, creating a perfect balance. The spices and herbs used in the coating add depth and aromatic notes to the dish, enhancing its overall taste profile.
- Textural Contrast: The contrast between the tender chicken and the crispy walnut crust is a delightful sensation for the palate. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the succulent juiciness of the chicken, providing a pleasing textural experience.
- Versatility: Honey walnut chicken can be served in various ways, making it versatile for different dining preferences. It can be enjoyed as a main course alongside sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. It can also be sliced and added to salads for a lighter meal option or used in sandwiches for a tasty lunch.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The golden-brown crust, coupled with the glossy honey glaze, creates an appealing visual presentation. Honey walnut chicken is not only delicious but also visually enticing, making it an excellent choice for dinner parties or special occasions.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is widely loved and enjoyed by many due to its universal appeal. The combination of familiar flavors like honey and walnuts with the comforting nature of chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser. It is a dish that can be appreciated by both adults and children, making it a great option for family meals or gatherings.
Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe Ingredients
You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:
- Chicken breast
- Buttermilk
- Walnuts
- Flour
- Thyme
- Garlic powder
- Honey
- Butter
- Goat cheese
See recipe card for Honey Walnut Chicken quantities.
How to make Honey Walnut Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly. In a shallow bowl or dish, pour the buttermilk and season it with salt and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the buttermilk, making sure they are fully coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator) to tenderize.
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, flour, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the dry ingredients.
Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk and let the excess liquid drip off. Dredge the chicken in the walnut mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
Place the coated chicken on the baking dish and repeat with the rest. Bake in the oven for 17-22 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Meanwhile, make the honey sauce when there are about 5 minutes left for the chicken. In a small saucepan on low heat, pour the butter and the honey into the saucepan until it melts. Take the chicken out, and pour HALF of the honey mixture in. Place the goat cheese on each piece of chicken and place it back in the oven for another 5 minutes.
When the chicken is done, pour the rest of the honey mixture on the chicken. Garnish with the extra sprigs of thyme and enjoy.
What to serve with Honey Walnut Chicken
- Roasted Vegetables: Roast a medley of seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or asparagus. The caramelized flavors and tender texture of roasted vegetables provide a satisfying contrast to the chicken.
- Steamed or Sautéed Greens: Serve honey walnut chicken with a side of steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or kale. The vibrant green colors and nutritious qualities of the greens create a fresh and healthy accompaniment. Check out my Sautéed Kale Recipe.
- Rice or Quinoa: Prepare fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa to serve as a base for the honey walnut chicken. The grains will absorb the flavorful juices and provide a satisfying and filling element to the meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with chicken. The smooth and buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the crunchy coating of the honey walnut chicken.
- Citrusy Salad: Create a refreshing salad using mixed greens, segments of oranges or grapefruits, sliced almonds, and a tangy vinaigrette. The bright citrus flavors will cut through the richness of the chicken and add a refreshing element to the meal. Check out my Burrata Peach Arugula Salad.
- Couscous or Bulgur Salad: Prepare a light and flavorful couscous or bulgur salad with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a lemony dressing. The grain salad adds a refreshing and satisfying element to the dish.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss sweet potato chunks with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them until tender and slightly caramelized. The natural sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the honey glaze on the chicken.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Glaze tender cooked carrots with a touch of honey, butter, and a sprinkle of thyme. The natural sweetness of the carrots enhances the honey flavor in the chicken.
Substitutions
Honey: Maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar can be used as substitutes for honey. Keep in mind that each alternative will provide a slightly different flavor profile.
Walnuts: Pecans, almonds, or cashews can be used instead of walnuts. These nuts will provide a similar crunchy texture and nuttiness to the dish.
Chicken Breast: If you prefer a different protein or don't have chicken breast on hand, you can substitute it with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Buttermilk: If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a simple substitute by mixing regular milk with lemon juice or white vinegar. For every cup of buttermilk, use 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar mixed with enough milk to make 1 cup. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle before using it in the recipe.
Goat Cheese: If you don't have goat cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese, ricotta cheese, or even cream cheese. The choice will depend on your personal preference and the flavor you want to achieve.
Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe Variations
- Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor profile by adding the zest of an orange or lemon to the walnut coating mixture. The citrus zest will impart a refreshing and vibrant note to the dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the honey. This will give the chicken a spicy kick and add an extra layer of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs to infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage can be finely chopped and mixed into the walnut coating for a herbal twist.
- Dijon Mustard: Before coating the chicken with the walnut mixture, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the chicken breasts. The mustard adds tanginess and helps the walnut crust adhere to the chicken, creating a more robust flavor profile.
- Sweet and Savory Glaze: Create a glaze by combining honey, soy sauce, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Brush the glaze over the chicken during the last few minutes of baking to add a sweet and savory element to the dish.
- Coconut Walnut Chicken: Replace a portion of the walnuts with shredded coconut in the coating mixture. The combination of coconut and walnuts adds a tropical flair to the dish and provides an interesting texture.
- Herb Goat Cheese Topping: Mix crumbled goat cheese with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken during the last few minutes of baking to create a creamy and herbaceous topping.
Check out this Honey Harissa Chicken.
Equipment
- Baking Dish: Use a baking dish large enough to accommodate the chicken breasts without overcrowding. A 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish is commonly used for this recipe.
- Mixing Bowls: You'll need a few bowls for various steps in the recipe. One for marinating the chicken in buttermilk, one for the walnut coating mixture, and another for any additional mixtures like the honey glaze.
- Whisk or Fork: A whisk or fork will come in handy for mixing the ingredients in the coating mixture or whisking together the honey glaze.
- Oven: A conventional oven is necessary for baking the honey walnut chicken until it reaches the desired level of doneness and the coating is crispy.
- Oven Mitts: Use oven mitts to handle hot dishes and pans safely when transferring them in and out of the oven.
- Kitchen Tongs or Spatula: Tongs or a spatula will help you flip and handle the chicken during the searing process and when transferring it to the baking dish.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for consistent results. Have measuring cups and spoons on hand to measure out the ingredients precisely.
- Knife and Cutting Board: You may need a knife and cutting board for tasks like chopping walnuts, slicing chicken breasts, or preparing any optional toppings.
How to store Honey Walnut Chicken
To properly store honey walnut chicken, follow these guidelines:
- Refrigeration: Allow the honey walnut chicken to cool down to room temperature before storing it. Place the chicken in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerator Shelf Life: The honey walnut chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
- Freezing: If you want to store the honey walnut chicken for longer periods, you can freeze it. Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or sealable freezer bags. Label the packaging with the date to keep track of the storage time.
- Freezer Shelf Life: Honey walnut chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. After this time, the quality may start to deteriorate.
- Thawing: When you're ready to enjoy the frozen honey walnut chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat the honey walnut chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave on a low power setting, heating in short intervals and checking for doneness.
Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe Top tips
- Properly Coat the Chicken: Ensure that each chicken breast is fully coated with the walnut mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken firmly to help it adhere well. This will result in a more even and crunchy crust.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh and high-quality ingredients to maximize the flavors of the dish. Fresh herbs, good-quality walnuts, and flavorful honey will contribute to a tastier final result.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After baking the honey walnut chicken, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings to add more interest to the dish. Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, over the chicken after baking for a pop of color and freshness. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the chicken before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Customize the Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs to your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Serve with Accompaniments: Pair honey walnut chicken with your favorite sides to create a complete meal. It goes well with roasted vegetables, steamed greens, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Consider a tangy side like a citrusy slaw or a side of quinoa for a balanced meal.
Honey Walnut Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Honey Walnut Chicken with goat cheese is made with chicken breasts, buttermilk, walnuts, flour, thyme, garlic powder, and honey.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of large chicken breasts
- ½ cup of buttermilk
- 2 cups of chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons of all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of chopped thyme
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ cup of honey
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 ounces of goat cheese
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly.
-
In a shallow bowl or dish, pour the buttermilk and season it with salt and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the buttermilk, making sure they are fully coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator) to tenderize.
-
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, flour, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the dry ingredients.
-
Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk and let the excess liquid drip off. Dredge the chicken in the walnut mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
- Place the coated chicken on the baking dish and repeat with the rest. Bake in the oven for 17-22 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Meanwhile, make the honey sauce when there are about 5 minutes left for the chicken. In a small saucepan on low heat, pour the butter and the honey into the saucepan until it melts. Take the chicken out, and pour HALF of the honey mixture in. Place the goat cheese on each piece of chicken and place it back in the oven for another 5 minutes.
- When the chicken is done, pour the rest of the honey mixture on the chicken. Garnish with the extra sprigs of thyme and enjoy.
Notes
- Some of the walnuts may be thicker and more difficult to stick on, so top each chicken with the thicker walnuts.
- The amount of time to bake depends on the thickness of the chicken
- Leave the goat cheese on longer if the cheese doesn't melt
- Properly Coat the Chicken: Ensure that each chicken breast is fully coated with the walnut mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken firmly to help it adhere well. This will result in a more even and crunchy crust.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh and high-quality ingredients to maximize the flavors of the dish. Fresh herbs, good-quality walnuts, and flavorful honey will contribute to a tastier final result.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After baking the honey walnut chicken, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings to add more interest to the dish. Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, over the chicken after baking for a pop of color and freshness. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the chicken before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Customize the Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs to your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Serve with Accompaniments: Pair honey walnut chicken with your favorite sides to create a complete meal. It goes well with roasted vegetables, steamed greens, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Consider a tangy side like a citrusy slaw or a side of quinoa for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 332.1
- Sugar: 0.1 g
- Sodium: 216.8 mg
- Fat: 7.2 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.4 g
- Carbohydrates: 6.7 g
- Fiber: 1.0 g
- Protein: 57.1 g
- Cholesterol: 137.9 mg
Food safety
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
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