If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and has just the right amount of crunch, then you must try this Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe. Imagine juicy, tender chicken breasts wrapped in a crispy, golden pretzel crust paired perfectly with a creamy, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce that elevates every bite. This combination is not only delightful but also surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an absolute favorite for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe. Each item plays a key role, from the crunchy pretzel coating to the zesty mustard in the sauce that adds depth and warmth to the dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and juicy when cooked properly.
- 2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels: Provides the perfect salty crunch that makes this recipe stand out.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick evenly to the chicken.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a glue to bind the flour and pretzel crust to the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the egg wash and sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory aroma and flavor into the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall seasoning with a gentle sweetness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors.
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce for a smooth and rich texture.
- ½ cup milk: Creates the creamy base for the mustard-cheddar sauce.
- 1 cup mustard-cheddar sauce: The delicious sauce that ties the entire Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe together.
How to Make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for baking the chicken perfectly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Give your chicken breasts a good seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This step is crucial because it layers flavor right at the base before any coating is added, ensuring each bite is seasoning-rich.
Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls or plates for an efficient breading process. Put the flour in the first bowl, whisk the eggs and Dijon mustard together in the second, and add your coarsely crushed pretzels in the third. This makes dipping clean and straightforward while coating the chicken evenly.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Now the fun begins. Dip each seasoned chicken breast first into the flour, covering it completely to create a base for the egg wash. Next, dip into the egg and Dijon mixture, letting any excess drip off for an even layer. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the crushed pretzels, pressing gently to ensure the crisp pretzels stick to every inch, forming that irresistible crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange your coated chicken breasts neatly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This baking method guarantees a juicy interior with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior.
Step 6: Prepare the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce
While your chicken is baking, it’s time to whip up the luscious mustard-cheddar sauce that makes this recipe truly special. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, Dijon mustard, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. Stir until warm, then gradually whisk in shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through and perfectly golden, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period locks in the juices, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful, ready to be drizzled generously with your homemade mustard-cheddar sauce.
How to Serve Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For a delightful finishing touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives on top of the chicken. These herbs add a pop of vibrant color as well as a fresh brightness that balances the richness of the mustard-cheddar sauce beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables, or even roasted potatoes. These sides add texture and color contrast, complementing the creamy and crunchy main dish without overpowering its flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken slices atop a bed of garlic mashed potatoes and drizzle extra mustard-cheddar sauce over everything. Alternately, slice the chicken for a hearty sandwich or wrap, layered with fresh greens and pickles, making a meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before storing to maintain its texture and flavor.
Freezing
This dish also freezes well. Wrap the cooked chicken breasts individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The sauce can be frozen separately in a sealed container. They will keep well for up to two months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Reheat the mustard-cheddar sauce gently on the stove, stirring often to prevent separation.
FAQs
Can I use pretzel crumbs from store-bought pretzels?
Absolutely! Coarsely crushed store-bought pretzels work perfectly for the crust, giving you that signature crunch and saltiness that defines this Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe.
Is it necessary to bake the chicken or can I pan-fry it?
Baking is recommended to achieve an even, golden crust without excess oil, but you can pan-fry if preferred—just be sure to keep the heat medium-low to avoid burning the pretzel coating.
Can I make the mustard-cheddar sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the milk and cheddar cheese with your favorite non-dairy alternatives. Nutritional yeast can add cheesy flavor, and almond or oat milk works well for the creamy base.
How do I keep the pretzel crust from falling off?
Following the breading steps carefully helps greatly. Ensure the chicken is fully coated in flour first, then dip in the egg-mustard wash, and finally press the pretzel crumbs firmly onto the chicken to help the crust adhere during baking.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will remain juicy and flavorful, though you may need to adjust cooking time since thighs can vary in thickness.
Final Thoughts
This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe is a brilliant way to elevate ordinary chicken into something irresistibly special. The combination of crunchy pretzel coating and creamy, tangy sauce warms the soul and pleases the palate. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every delicious bite as much as I do; it’s one you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crunchy pretzel-crusted chicken breasts baked to golden perfection, served with a creamy, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce. This delicious recipe combines the savory flavors of garlic and onion seasoning with the delightful texture of crushed pretzels for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mustard-Cheddar Sauce
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to infuse flavor throughout the meat.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and one with coarsely crushed pretzels.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the flour to coat completely, then into the egg-mustard mixture allowing excess to drip off, and finally press into the crushed pretzels to create a crunchy crust.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken breasts on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the crust turns a beautiful golden brown.
- Prepare Sauce: While the chicken bakes, heat milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until warm.
- Melt Cheese: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices before serving topped with the mustard-cheddar sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully coated with each layer to achieve a crispy crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- For extra flavor, add smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the pretzel coating.
- The mustard-cheddar sauce can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated before serving.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
