As I was rummaging through my pantry one evening, I stumbled upon a half-empty bag of pretzels. This little find sparked an idea that transformed a simple dinner into something extraordinary. My Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce is not only a delightful twist on your typical chicken dish but also a surefire way to add some excitement to your weekday meals. With a pleasing crunch and a creamy, tangy sauce that kids and adults alike adore, this easy chicken dinner can be dressed up for guests or enjoyed with family. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, leaving you with more time to savor the moments that matter. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game and impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe! Why is Pretzel Crusted Chicken a Must-Try? Crispy Delight: The crunchy pretzel coating makes each bite utterly satisfying, providing a textural contrast that’s hard to resist. Creamy Sauce: The rich Cheddar Mustard Sauce complements the dish perfectly, adding a tangy creaminess that elevates the flavors. Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest of eaters will love this dish, making it a great option for family dinners. Quick & Easy: With just a few simple steps, this recipe can be on your table in under 30 minutes! Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer baked or pan-fried, you can customize the cooking method according to your mood or schedule. Try pairing it with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal! Pretzel Crusted Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Main protein source that remains juicy and tender when cooked correctly. • Flour – Provides a base for the coating; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed. • Eggs – Binds the coating to the chicken; use a flax egg for a vegan option. • Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess to the egg wash; yellow mustard works as a simple substitute. For the Crunchy Coating • Crushed Pretzels – Creates the delightfully crunchy coating, offering a necessary salty flavor; opt for plain or flavored pretzels for variety. • Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor of the crust; fresh garlic can also be used for a bolder taste. • Paprika – Adds depth to the crust’s color and flavor; consider smoked paprika for a rich twist. • Olive Oil or Melted Butter – Used for brushing the chicken to increase crispiness; a cooking spray is a lighter alternative. For the Cheddar Mustard Sauce • Milk – Brings creaminess to the sauce; substitute with low-fat or plant-based milk for dietary preferences. • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – The main flavor component of the sauce; sharp cheddar enhances the taste significantly. • Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to elevate flavor; adjust to your preference. For Garnish • Fresh Parsley or Crushed Pretzels – Optional decorative elements that also add a touch of flavor. Transform your dinner with this mouthwatering Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce—it’s a delightful, easy chicken dinner your whole family will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Step 1: Prepare Chicken Begin by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch, ensuring they cook uniformly. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, creating a flavorful base that complements the crispy pretzel coating. This step enhances the juiciness, making each bite of your Pretzel Crusted Chicken immensely satisfying. Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations Create three separate breading stations to streamline the coating process. In one bowl, place flour; in the second, whisk together eggs and Dijon mustard for a smooth mixture. Finally, in a third bowl, combine crushed pretzels, garlic powder, and paprika to form a vibrant, flavorful crust. This organization will make your cooking experience efficient and enjoyable. Step 3: Coat Chicken Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess before dipping it into the egg mixture. Allow the egg wash to cling well, and then transfer the chicken to the pretzel mixture, pressing down firmly to ensure a thick, even coating sticks. This lavish crust is what will give your Pretzel Crusted Chicken its delightful crunch. Step 4: Cooking Method If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken on a lined baking sheet, brush it lightly with olive oil or melted butter, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and is beautifully golden brown. For pan-frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until it is golden and fully cooked. Step 5: Prepare Sauce In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add milk while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, around 5 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard and shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. Season to taste with salt and pepper, ensuring it complements your Pretzel Crusted Chicken perfectly. Step 6: Serve Plate each piece of your crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken and generously drizzle with the Cheddar Mustard Sauce. For an added touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of crushed pretzels for extra crunch and flair. Serve alongside your favorite sides for a comforting, satisfying meal that will leave everyone smiling. What to Serve with Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Set the stage for a comforting meal that delights with vibrant flavors and satisfying textures. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky smoothness of warm, buttery mashed potatoes balances the crunchy chicken and rich sauce perfectly. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots and broccoli with olive oil for an earthy bite that enhances the overall meal experience. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, garlic-infused side adds a delightful texture, perfect for soaking up the creamy Cheddar Mustard Sauce. Light Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a zesty crunch that cuts through the heaviness of the dish, making each bite more enjoyable. Apple Cider: Pairing with a glass of refreshing apple cider offers a delightful sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully. How to Store and Freeze Pretzel Crusted Chicken Fridge: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its crunch. Keep the sauce in a separate container to preserve its creamy texture. Freezer: Freeze the pretzel crusted chicken wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen for best results, ensuring it’s heated through completely. Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps revive the chicken’s crispy coating. Make-Ahead: Coat your chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully before cooking! Expert Tips for Pretzel Crusted Chicken Resting Time: Allow the coated chicken to sit for 10-15 minutes on a rack before cooking. This enhances crust adherence, ensuring that your Pretzel Crusted Chicken comes out perfectly crispy. Fresh is Best: Use freshly crushed pretzels for the coating to achieve maximum crunch and flavor. Packaged pretzel crumbs may not deliver the same texture. Avoid Sogginess: To prevent sogginess, avoid stacking the chicken while it’s cooling. Instead, let each piece rest separately on a wire rack. Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free sauce, swap out the flour for cornstarch during sauce preparation. This will keep the creamy texture while accommodating dietary needs. Seasoning Balance: Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially in the sauce. It can greatly enhance the overall dish, making your Pretzel Crusted Chicken irresistible! Make Ahead Options These Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights! You can coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, which ensures the crust adheres perfectly while saving you precious time. Prepare the Cheddar Mustard Sauce ahead as well; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and follow the cooking steps for the chicken when you’re ready to eat—whether you choose to bake or pan-fry. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort! Pretzel Crusted Chicken Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and personalize this recipe to suit your tastes! Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier and richer flavor. The extra fat keeps them moist during cooking, ensuring every bite is tender and satisfying. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour for the coating. This simple swap allows everyone to enjoy the dish without compromising on taste or texture. Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile. If you’re a heat lover, this little twist will take your Pretzel Crusted Chicken to new heights! Alternative Coatings: Experiment with crushed potato chips or cornflakes instead of pretzels for a different crunch. Each will add a unique flavor that keeps dinner exciting and fresh! Cheese Variations: Go beyond cheddar by using pepper jack cheese in your sauce for an extra punch. The creaminess blended with a hint of spice makes every bite memorable. Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the breading to enhance the flavor. They offer an aromatic twist that rounds out the overall dish beautifully. Tangy Sauce Options: Swap out the cheddar for a blue cheese dressing or a ranch-inspired sauce for a fun variation. This creamy pairing brings a new dynamic to the Pretzel Crusted Chicken you’ll love. Try pairing this dish with a light salad or some oven-roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Wondering what to serve it with? Check out how well it complements creamy mashed potatoes or the delightful flavors found in Garlic Tomato Chicken for the ultimate comfort food experience! Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe FAQs What type of pretzels should I use for the crust? I recommend using freshly crushed pretzels for the best crunch and flavor. Both plain and flavored pretzels work well. Just be sure to crush them into small pieces to ensure they adhere nicely to the chicken. How should I store leftover Pretzel Crusted Chicken? To store leftovers, place the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep the cheddar mustard sauce in a separate container to maintain the chicken’s crispy texture. Can I freeze Pretzel Crusted Chicken? Absolutely! Wrap uncooked, coated chicken tightly in plastic wrap, and then in foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). What if my pretzel crust isn’t sticking to the chicken? If you’re having trouble with the coating adhering, make sure to press down firmly when coating the chicken with the pretzel mixture. Additionally, letting the coated chicken rest on a rack for 10-15 minutes before cooking can enhance adhesion. If needed, you can also return the chicken to the egg wash and then back to the pretzels for extra coating. Can I make this dish gluten-free? Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free version of the Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce. Simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the breading process and use crushed gluten-free pretzels. For the sauce, replace the regular flour with cornstarch to maintain the creamy texture. Is this recipe suitable for kids? Very! This Pretzel Crusted Chicken is perfect for kids due to its crunchy texture and delicious cheddar mustard sauce. It’s an exciting dinner that appeals to even the pickiest eaters, making it an excellent choice for family meals. Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Delight This Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce is a delightful twist on chicken dinner, perfect for the whole family. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Chicken Breasts0.5 cups Flour Use gluten-free flour if needed2 large Eggs Use a flax egg for vegan option2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be used as a substituteFor the Crunchy Coating2 cups Crushed Pretzels Opt for plain or flavored pretzels1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for more flavor1 teaspoon Paprika Consider smoked paprika for a richer taste2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Melted Butter A cooking spray is a lighter alternativeFor the Cheddar Mustard Sauce1 cup Milk Substitute with low-fat or plant-based milk1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Sharp cheddar enhances the tasteto taste Salt and Pepper Adjust to preferenceFor Garnishto taste Fresh Parsley or Crushed Pretzels Optional Equipment OvenSkilletBaking sheetmedium saucepanBowls for Breading StationsWhisk Method Preparation StepsBegin by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch, ensuring they cook uniformly.Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.Create three separate breading stations: flour, egg wash with Dijon mustard, and a pretzel mixture with garlic powder and paprika.Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat with the pretzel mixture.If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.For pan-frying, cook in a skillet with oil for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked.In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to make a roux, then add milk and thicken the sauce.Stir in Dijon mustard and shredded cheddar cheese to create the sauce, seasoning to taste.Plate each piece of chicken, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with parsley or crushed pretzels. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesAllow the coated chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes for optimized crispiness. Use freshly crushed pretzels for the best texture and avoid stacking the chicken to prevent sogginess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
