Name: Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce Magic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Flattened to ensure even cooking.); 3 cups Salted Pretzels (Crushed for the coating.); 0.5 teaspoon Paprika (For warmth and color.); Salt and Pepper (To taste.); 2 pieces Eggs (Beaten for coating.); Vegetable Oil (For frying.); 2 tablespoons Butter; 2 tablespoons Flour; 2 cups Milk; 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Shredded.); 2 tablespoons Whole Grain Mustard; 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper; 0.25 cup Flat Leaf Parsley Leaves (Chopped.); 0.25 small Red Onion (Finely chopped.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling chicken filled the air, instantly transporting me to cozy nights spent with my family around the table. Enter this Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce, a dish that brings a delightful crunch and a creamy sauce together in perfect harmony. This quick meal not only takes just 30 minutes to prepare but is also a family-friendly favorite that will put a smile on everyone’s face. With the option of turning it gluten-free by using certified pretzels, it accommodates various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Curious about how to elevate your weeknight dinners with this irresistible twist on a classic? Let’s dive into the recipe together!

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Why is Pretzel Crusted Chicken a Must-Try?

Crispiness: The crunchy pretzel coating creates a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with tender chicken.

Creamy Sauce: This dish is topped with a rich cheddar-mustard sauce that adds depth and flavor, transforming a simple meal into something special.

Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time—perfect for busy weekdays.

Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this dish, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheese sauces or even swap out the breading for a gluten-free delight using certified pretzels.

Elevate your meal by serving it alongside a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a balanced dining experience. Your family will be asking for seconds!

Pretzel Crusted Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to savor a delightful dish!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless for a tender, juicy bite.
Salted Pretzels – About 3 cups, crushed to form that irresistible crunchy coating.
Paprika – ½ teaspoon to add warmth and a beautiful color to your chicken.
Salt and Pepper – To taste, enhancing the overall flavor of your dish.
Eggs – 2, beaten to act as the perfect binder for the pretzel coating.
Vegetable Oil – For frying, ensuring a crispy exterior that everyone will love.

For the Cheddar-Mustard Sauce

Butter – 2 tablespoons to add richness and depth to your sauce.
Flour – 2 tablespoons to thicken the sauce beautifully.
Milk – 2 cups, creating the creamy base that ties the flavors together.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups, shredded for a rich, cheesy flavor that everyone craves.
Whole Grain Mustard – 2 tablespoons to provide a tangy kick that balances the richness.
Cayenne Pepper – ¼ teaspoon for a touch of mild heat that elevates the sauce.

For Garnish

Flat Leaf Parsley Leaves – ¼ cup, chopped to add a fresh, colorful touch.
Red Onion – ¼ small, finely chopped for a bit of crunch and sharpness on top.

Ready to transform your dinner with this Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce? Let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by butterfly and flattening the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure an even cooking thickness, about ½ inch. You can achieve this by placing the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pounding with a meat mallet until properly tenderized. This step not only helps in cooking but also ensures a succulent bite, setting the base for your Pretzel Crusted Chicken.

Step 2: Make Pretzel Coating
In a food processor, crush approximately 3 cups of salted pretzels until they resemble coarse crumbs. Transfer these crumbs to a shallow dish and mix in ½ teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. This flavorful mixture will give your chicken its irresistible crunch and enhance the overall taste of the Pretzel Crusted Chicken.

Step 3: Egg Dredge
In a separate shallow dish, beat 2 eggs until fully combined. This egg mixture will serve as the perfect binder to help the crunchy pretzel coating stick to the chicken. Make sure it’s well mixed so that each chicken piece gets an even coat when dredged, giving you that golden brown finish you’ll love.

Step 4: Heat Oil
Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom generously. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The right temperature ensures that the chicken will fry beautifully, providing that delightful crispy exterior for your Pretzel Crusted Chicken.

Step 5: Coat Chicken
Carefully dip each flattened chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, transfer it to the pretzel crumb mixture, pressing down firmly to ensure a thick, even coating. This step is key to achieving a satisfying crunch. Repeat for all chicken pieces, placing them aside once coated.

Step 6: Fry Chicken
In the preheated skillet, add the coated chicken breasts, cooking them for 3-4 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when the crust turns a lovely golden brown. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for optimal juiciness and safety—this is your Pretzel Crusted Chicken at its finest!

Step 7: Prepare Cheese Sauce
While the chicken cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, stirring for about 1 minute until the mixture bubbles slightly. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, letting it cook until thickened, usually around 3-5 minutes, which creates the creamy base for your cheddar-mustard sauce.

Step 8: Finish Cheese Sauce
Once the milk mixture has thickened, stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons of whole grain mustard, ½ teaspoon of paprika, and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste, cooking until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. This savory cheddar-mustard sauce is what ties all the flavors together in your Pretzel Crusted Chicken.

Step 9: Serve
To serve your delicious Pretzel Crusted Chicken, drizzle the hot cheddar-mustard sauce generously over each chicken piece. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of finely chopped red onion for an extra pop of color and crunch. Your family will love the presentation as much as the taste!

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Expert Tips for Pretzel Crusted Chicken

Even Thickness: Make sure your chicken breasts are butterflied and pounded to ½ inch for even cooking. This prevents dry, overcooked pieces of chicken.
Perfectly Coated: When coating, press the chicken firmly into the pretzel crumbs to achieve a thick layer. A well-coated chicken increases crunchiness in your Pretzel Crusted Chicken.
Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken. A shimmering oil surface means it’s time to fry, helping you achieve that golden brown crust.
Resting Period: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute within the meat for a moist bite.
Cheese Sauce Consistency: If the cheddar-mustard sauce is too thick, whisk in a little extra milk to reach your desired consistency. Aim for a smooth sauce that drizzles beautifully over your chicken.
Storage Tips: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container. Reheat in an air fryer to maintain the crispy exterior of your Pretzel Crusted Chicken.

What to Serve with Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce?

Elevate your dinner table with delightful sides that perfectly complement the comforting crunch and savory flavors of this dish.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes provide a rich, smooth texture that balances the crunch of the chicken.
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies, roasted to perfection, adds a vibrant freshness to your plate, enhancing the meal’s appeal.
Tangy Coleslaw: The crisp, tangy slaw introduces a refreshing crunch, cutting through the richness of the cheddar-mustard sauce.
Steamed Broccoli: Simply seasoned steamed broccoli offers a tender bite, curved with a bright green color, making a nutritious counterpoint to the chicken.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for gathering up extra sauce, bringing a comforting feel that’s family-approved.
Crisp Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast and adds a wholesome touch.
Apple Cider: Warm or chilled, this delightful drink harmonizes with the savory chicken, offering a sweet-spicy note that rounds out the meal beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce are ideal for home cooks who love to meal prep! You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying, allowing the pretzel coating to fully adhere and maintain its crunch. Simply prepare the cheddar-mustard sauce, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the chicken and reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner swiftly, with minimal effort—perfect for those busy weeknights!

Pretzel Crusted Chicken Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own; let your taste buds lead the way!

Cheese Sauce: Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier version, or use Swiss cheese with herbs for a milder taste. Mixing and matching cheese can elevate your sauce, creating a signature flavor that suits your family’s preferences. Let the cheese melt luxuriously, adding creaminess and depth.
Breading Alternatives: Use crushed tortilla chips or seasoned breadcrumbs instead of pretzels for a different texture. For a twist, consider panko bread crumbs for an extra crispy bite. Experimenting with breading will keep this dish exciting and fresh.
Chicken Cuts: Substitute chicken breasts with chicken tenders for a quicker cooking option. This variation not only saves time but also makes for delightful bite-sized pieces that are perfect for the little ones or for sharing at gatherings.
Gluten-Free: Opt for certified gluten-free pretzels to transform this dish into a gluten-free delight without sacrificing crunch or flavor. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy a delicious meal, respecting dietary needs while still being indulgent.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into your pretzel coating for an aromatic twist. These herbs lend an earthy quality to the crust, refreshing the flavors and bringing a touch of elegance to your home-cooked dish.
Heat Levels: Add a pinch more cayenne or drizzle with hot sauce for those who enjoy a fiery kick. Adjust the spice levels to suit your family’s taste buds—because everyone loves a comforting dish that can light up their evening!
Serving Suggestions: Pair the chicken with a vibrant side salad or some roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete and colorful meal. This not only balances the richness of the sauce but also adds nutritional value to your dining experience.

Looking for more delectable pairings? Check out Grilled Chicken Sauce for a zesty twist or some delightful balsamic-glazed chicken that complements the crunch of this pretzel-crusted favorite.

Storage Tips for Pretzel Crusted Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover pretzel crusted chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap each chicken piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy.

Check Quality: Always inspect the chicken before eating; if there are any off smells or discoloration, it’s best to discard it. Enjoy your pretzel crusted chicken while it’s at its best!

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Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of pretzels should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using regular salted pretzels for a classic flavor that perfectly complements the chicken. If you need to make this dish gluten-free, opt for certified gluten-free pretzels, which will give you the same crunchy texture without the gluten.

How should I store leftovers?
After enjoying your meal, let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the flavors and moisture of your Pretzel Crusted Chicken.

Can I freeze the Pretzel Crusted Chicken?
Very! To freeze, wrap each piece of chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent freezer burn, and you can keep them stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in an air fryer or oven for the best crispiness.

What should I do if my pretzel coating isn’t sticking?
If you find the coating isn’t sticking well, make sure to press the chicken firmly into the pretzel crumbs after dipping in the egg. Another tip is to ensure your egg wash is properly beaten and that there’s enough surface moisture on the chicken for the crumbs to adhere.

How can I adjust this recipe for dietary needs?
If you have dietary considerations such as allergies, feel free to swap out ingredients as needed. For example, you could substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, or use egg substitutes for vegan options. Just be sure to check the labels to avoid any specific allergens.

What is the ideal way to reheat this dish?
For the best results, reheat your leftover Pretzel Crusted Chicken in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps restore the crispiness of the crust and ensures your chicken remains juicy inside. Microwaving is not recommended, as it tends to make the chicken soggy.