Table of Contents: Walnut Crusted Chicken Breast
Walnut Crusted Chicken Breast
Looking for a healthy twist on classic chicken breast dinners? Walnut crusted chicken breast is your answer. It’s juicy, crunchy, and full of natural flavor from nutrient-packed walnuts. This recipe is perfect when you want a dinner that’s both gourmet and wholesome, without spending hours in the kitchen.
We’ll walk you through everything from choosing the right chicken to making sure your walnut crust doesn’t fall off. Along the way, we’ll answer questions like What does walnut chicken taste like? and What sides go best with crusted chicken?
Don’t miss our Cheesy Mashed Potatoes for a side that pairs beautifully with this recipe!
Introduction to Walnut Crusted Chicken Breast
What Is Walnut Crusted Chicken Breast?
This dish is made by coating chicken breasts in a crunchy mixture of crushed walnuts and breadcrumbs, then either baking or pan-frying until golden. The result? A crispy, nutty exterior wrapped around moist, flavorful chicken.
It’s a great alternative to traditional fried chicken—lighter, heart-healthier, and packed with flavor.
Why Choose Walnuts Over Regular Breading?
Walnuts offer a richer taste and higher nutritional value. They’re full of healthy fats, antioxidants, and protein, making them ideal for a balanced meal.
Compared to regular breadcrumbs, walnuts give the crust:
- More crunch
- Natural oils for flavor
- A rustic, homemade texture
They also happen to be naturally gluten-free, which is a plus for many.
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25 Mins Walnut Crusted Chicken Breast
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
Description
Juicy chicken breasts with a golden walnut crust, infused with garlic and rosemary — a protein-packed dish with a flavorful crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp kosher sea salt
- 1 cup (117 g) raw walnuts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/8 tsp cayenne
- 3 large chicken breasts (1 1/2 to 2 lbs total)
- 2 tbsp walnut oil, avocado oil, or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pulse walnuts, garlic, rosemary, cayenne, and kosher sea salt in a food processor until finely ground.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Press walnut mixture firmly onto each chicken breast to coat.
- Heat walnut oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned.
- Transfer skillet to oven and roast for 15–20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest chicken for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2 minutes after roasting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven-Roasted
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: chicken, walnut, crusted, low carb, oven roasted