Pecan-Crusted Chicken

By mcheath1980

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, (1-1 1/4 pounds), trimmed (see Tip)
• 1/2 cup pecan halves or pieces
• 1/4 cup plain dry breadcrumbs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly grated orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper, (see Note)
• 1 large eggwhite
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon canola oil, divided

Preparation

Step 1

1.Working with one piece of chicken at a time, place between sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet or heavy skillet until flattened to an even 1/4-inch thickness.
2.Place pecans, breadcrumbs, orange zest, salt and ground chipotle in a food processor and pulse until the pecans are finely ground. Transfer the mixture to a shallow dish. Whisk egg white and water in a shallow dish until combined. Dip each chicken breast in the egg-white mixture, then dredge both sides in the pecan mixture.
3.Heat 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add half the chicken and cook until browned on the outside and no longer pink in the middle, 2 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm. Carefully wipe out the pan with a paper towel and add the remaining oil. Cook the remaining chicken, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent scorching. Serve immediately.