This Heart Healthy Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Chicken is a deliciously crispy and nutty dinner that’s perfect for any heart-healthy or diabetic-friendly diet. Made with lean chicken breasts, crunchy pecans, and gluten-free panko, it’s a low-carb, high-protein option ready in just 30 minutes. For an extra golden-brown crust, be sure to not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Don't have an air fryer? You can easily make Pecan Crusted Chicken in your oven!
Looking for more healthy options? Check out our collection of heart healthy air fryer recipes.
This recipe is a heart-healthy choice because it uses the air fryer to achieve a crispy texture with minimal oil. It relies on the natural, healthy fats from pecans and lean protein from chicken breast to create a satisfying and well-balanced meal that is low in sodium and saturated fat.
The key is a three-step process. First, pat the chicken dry. Second, dip it in a binder like the egg white mixture in this recipe. Third, press the pecan crust firmly onto the chicken. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure hot air circulates and crisps the coating instead of steaming it off.
Yes, when prepared thoughtfully. This air-fried version is healthy because it uses very little oil, relies on heart-healthy fats from pecans, and is made with lean chicken breast. It is also low in sodium and suitable for several dietary needs.
Absolutely. The air fryer works like a small, high-powered convection oven and is perfectly safe for cooking raw chicken and other meats. Just ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you enjoyed this crispy pecan-crusted chicken, you'll love these other healthy main courses made right in your air fryer. Each healthy chicken recipe uses the power of circulating hot air to create delicious, satisfying meals with less oil and hassle.
Since your air fryer is already warmed up, why not make a delicious side to complete your meal? These quick, easy, and healthy air fryer side dishes are a perfect way to round out your dinner with minimal extra effort.
Recipe yields 4 servings
Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
Halve chicken breasts and pound with a mallet.
In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites, cornstarch and lemon juice. Pour into a shallow dish for dipping chicken.
In another medium bowl, combine all crust mixture ingredients (bread crumbs and seasonings).
Dip pounded chicken in egg white mixture, and then dredge in crust mixture.
Lightly grease the inside of the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Place chicken in air fryer and cook for 14 minutes, flipping over halfway through cooking time.
Remove from air fryer and allow to sit for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve immediately.
If you don't have an air fryer, you can easily bake this chicken in a conventional oven.
This recipe works well with chicken tenders. Reduce the cooking time to 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
For a lower-carb option, you can omit the panko breadcrumbs and use an additional ½ cup of finely chopped pecans.
If you need an egg-free option, you can use plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise as a binder for the crust.