Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce combines the crispy crunch of pretzels with the savory, tangy richness of a creamy mustard-cheddar sauce. The chicken comes out perfectly tender and juicy, and the crust adds an irresistible crunch that makes each bite so satisfying. The sauce is creamy and comforting, with a slight tang from the Dijon mustard that complements the chicken beautifully.

It’s not a heavy or greasy dish, making it a fantastic choice for any season. You can easily adjust the mustard flavor or skip it entirely if that’s not your thing, making this a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed by everyone at the table. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit.

this Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 cups crushed pretzels

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Coating: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the crushed pretzels in one shallow bowl, flour in another, and beat the eggs with milk in a third bowl.

2. Coat the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip in the egg mixture, then press into the crushed pretzels, ensuring an even coating.

3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:

1. Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is lightly browned and bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.

2. Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken breasts drizzled with the mustard-cheddar sauce.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 25-30 minutes (including the baking time for the chicken).

Variations

• No Mustard: If you prefer a different sauce, you can replace the mustard with honey or skip the mustard altogether for a simple, creamy cheddar sauce.

• Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pretzels to make this dish gluten-free.

• Cheese Options: If you’re not a fan of cheddar, feel free to substitute with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you prefer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and sauce in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave the chicken, but be sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used as an alternative, but make sure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

2. Can I prepare the pretzel crust in advance?

Yes, you can coat the chicken breasts in the pretzel crust and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking. Just make sure to cook them immediately after removing them from the fridge to maintain crispiness.

3. Can I bake the chicken entirely instead of pan-frying it?

While pan-frying gives a nice golden crust, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes for a healthier option.

4. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, continue to simmer it until it thickens, or add a little extra cheese to thicken it up.

5. Can I make this recipe without a skillet?

If you don’t have a skillet, you can use any large pan or even a griddle to cook the chicken before baking it.

6. How can I make the sauce spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the mustard-cheddar sauce to give it an extra kick.

7. What other dipping sauces can I serve with this dish?

You can serve this chicken with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a simple lemon garlic aioli for additional flavor options.

8. Can I freeze this dish for later?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken after cooking it. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.

9. Can I use pre-made mustard sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought mustard sauce can be substituted for the homemade mustard-cheddar sauce if you’re short on time or prefer a quicker option.

10. Is there a way to make this dish less salty?

To reduce the saltiness, use unsalted pretzels and be mindful of the salt added to both the chicken coating and the sauce.

Conclusion

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is the perfect balance of crispy, tender chicken and creamy, tangy sauce that will make any meal feel special. It’s an easy yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or for guests. The pretzel crust adds an unexpected twist, and the sauce brings everything together beautifully. Give it a try, and you’ll be enjoying one of the most flavorful chicken dishes you’ve ever made!