Looking for a crunchy, flavorful, and protein-packed chicken dish that brings bold Southern or nutty flavor to your dinner plate—without gluten or unnecessary carbs? These Pecan Crusted Chicken Thighs are exactly what you need. With crispy pecan crust, tender baked meat inside, and optional garlic butter or herb seasoning, this keto-friendly version delivers all the richness of classic fried chicken—but in a healthier, low-carb format.
Perfect for weeknight dinners , keto meal prep , or when you’re craving something savory and satisfying, these oven-baked chicken thighs come together quickly with pantry ingredients and offer a gourmet-style texture without frying. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet , doing low-carb eating , or simply love the rich taste of nuts and poultry, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen rotation.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfect pecan crusted chicken thighs , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Pecan Crusted Chicken Thighs
These aren’t just any old breaded chicken strips—they’re a nutty, crispy, melt-in-your-mouth delight made with real ingredients that bring bold flavor and restaurant-quality texture together beautifully.
Here’s why they stand out:
- 🍗 Juicy chicken thighs : Baked to golden perfection with natural fat for moisture.
- 🥜 Crispy pecan crust : Adds crunch, depth, and healthy fats.
- 🧄 Flavorful seasonings : Garlic, herbs, and butter elevate the taste.
- 🍽️ One-dish meal prep : Minimal cleanup, maximum convenience.
- ⏱️ Ready in under 30 minutes
- 🧁 Great for keto, gluten-free, or paleo diets
- 🧼 Easy to customize : Add cheese, heat, or different coatings for variety
Whether you’re making them for yourself, your family, or guests at a dinner party, these pecan crusted chicken thighs will quickly become a go-to comfort dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless for quicker cooking)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
For the Pecan Crust:
- 1 cup finely crushed pecans (or walnuts/almonds)
- 1/2 cup almond flour or coconut flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Optional: 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese for extra umami
Tip: Use a food processor or rolling pin to crush pecans into fine crumbs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking sheet or rimmed casserole dish with parchment paper or silicone mat.
Tip: A cast iron skillet works great for even browning and rustic presentation.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels (this helps them crisp up).
Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and herbs.
Let sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Crush the Pecans
Place pecans in a food processor and pulse until finely ground—like coarse sand.
Transfer to a shallow bowl and mix with almond flour, salt, pepper, and additional spices.
Pro Tip: Don’t over-process—keep some texture for crunch!
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each seasoned chicken thigh into the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Make sure both sides are evenly coated.
Optional: Brush lightly with melted butter or avocado oil before coating for deeper color and crispiness.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet or skillet.
Bake for 25–30 minutes , flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C ).
The crust should be deeply golden and crunchy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—this allows juices to redistribute and enhances flavor.
Serve warm with roasted veggies, mashed cauliflower, or a side salad.
Enjoy every crispy, nutty bite of your Pecan Crusted Chicken Thighs !
Nutritional Information (Per Thigh – Makes 4 Servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~300 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~22 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~4 g |
| Cholesterol | ~80 mg |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
| Total Carbs | ~4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~1 g |
| Net Carbs | ~3 g |
| Protein | ~25 g |
Note: Values may vary based on exact measurements and optional add-ins.
Tips for the Best Pecan Crusted Chicken Thighs
- Use bone-in, skin-on thighs – They stay juicier and more flavorful.
- Don’t skip resting time – Keeps the juices locked in and improves texture.
- Press pecans firmly onto chicken – Ensures the crust stays intact during baking.
- Brush with butter or oil before baking – Enhances color and crispiness.
- Double the batch for freezing – Great for future meals or lunch prep.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
Bacon-Wrapped Version
Wrap each chicken breast in half a slice of bacon before coating for extra smokiness.
Spicy Kick
Mix crushed red pepper flakes or cajun seasoning into the pecan crust for heat.
Cheese Crusted Chicken
Add grated cheddar or mozzarella to the pecan mixture for cheesy crunch.
Air Fryer Method
Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes per side for extra crispiness.
Herb Crusted
Toss fresh parsley or dill into the pecan mixture before coating for green freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are these truly keto-friendly?
Yes! With only ~3g net carbs per serving , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Just reduce baking time slightly—boneless chicken breasts cook faster than thighs.
How do I store leftover chicken?
Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days . Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
What can I substitute for pecans?
Try walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts for similar richness and crunch.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze uncooked coated chicken thighs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
These Pecan Crusted Chicken Thighs work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:
- The chicken stays juicy thanks to its high-fat content and proper baking.
- The pecan crust crisps beautifully , giving a deep nutty finish.
- And the aromatic spices enhance the natural richness —no need for heavy sauces.
It’s the kind of dish that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for creative ways to serve your pecan-crusted chicken beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:
Over Greens
Top arugula or kale with warm chicken and drizzle with lemon-tahini dressing.
With Dipping Sauces
Pair with honey mustard, ranch, or chipotle mayo for extra flair.
In Wraps
Wrap in large lettuce leaves with avocado slices and hot sauce for handheld bites.
At a Party
Cut into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer-style servings.
With Side Dishes
Serve with roasted asparagus, keto coleslaw, or sautéed spinach.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:
Pecans
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber—great for heart health and satiety.
Chicken Thighs
Contain more fat than breasts, making them ideal for keto and hormone balance.
Herbs & Spices
Natural anti-inflammatories that support digestion and immunity.
Even though this is a comfort-style dish, it’s packed with nutrients that make it more than just a treat—it’s a smart addition to your balanced low-carb lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Dish for Nut Lovers
These Pecan Crusted Chicken Thighs prove that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold, gourmet-style dishes. With their crispy nut shell, juicy meat, and fragrant seasoning, they’re the kind of dish that turns simple chicken into something magical.
Whether you’re new to keto, looking for a unique dinner idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, these chicken thighs deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.
So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with family, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something worth celebrating.
Print
Pecan Crusted Chicken Thighs – Crispy, Nutty & Perfectly Low-Carb!
- Total Time: 30 mins
Description
Tender chicken thighs coated in crunchy, nutty goodness—simply irresistible!
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
¾ cup almond flour 3 large eggs 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
2 cups finely chopped pecans
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400F. Spray a wire rack and rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Alternatively, you can line the baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the baking rack inside the baking sheet.
Create a breading station for the chicken: In a large shallow bowl, have ready your almond flour. In a second large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and dijon mustard until well beaten. In a third large shallow bowl, spread the chopped pecans.
Season each chicken thigh with salt and pepper on both sides. Dredge a piece of chicken in the almond flour and coat completely, followed by beaten egg mixture to coat completely; finally, coat completely in the chopped pecans and place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet with rack. Repeat the process with each piece of chicken.
Bake 20 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted in the center of the chicken registers an internal temperature of 165F or higher. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 403
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 19g