Macadamia-Crusted Chicken with Kakadu Plum Chutney

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Pan-seared chicken breasts with a crunchy macadamia nut crust served alongside a tangy and fruity Kakadu plum chutney that brightens the dish. This australian-inspired chicken ready in about 27 minutes blends salt, black pepper, finely chopped macadamia nuts into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 420 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Australian cuisine 420 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper evenly on both sides.
  2. Step 2: Place 1/2 cup all-purpose flour in a shallow dish, 2 beaten eggs in a second dish, and 1 cup finely chopped macadamia nuts in a third.
  3. Step 3: Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally press firmly into macadamia nuts to coat completely.
  4. Step 4: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
  5. Step 5: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup Kakadu plum preserves with 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar and 1/4 tsp red chili flakes until well combined.
  6. Step 6: Serve the macadamia-crusted chicken hot with a generous spoonful of the tangy Kakadu plum chutney on top or on the side.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Macadamia-Crusted Chicken with Kakadu Plum Chutney take to make?

Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Macadamia-Crusted Chicken with Kakadu Plum Chutney?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Macadamia-Crusted Chicken with Kakadu Plum Chutney?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Macadamia-Crusted Chicken with Kakadu Plum Chutney for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Macadamia-Crusted Chicken with Kakadu Plum Chutney?

Australian chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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