Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I rummaged through my pantry one evening, I stumbled upon a bag of pretzels that had been waiting for a moment to shine. This unexpected discovery sparked the creative idea of making Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience that will impress your family and friends alike. Not only does this dish promise a delightful crunch paired with a creamy, tangy sauce, but it also comes together in just 45 minutes—perfect for those busy nights. Trust me, every bite of this chicken offers a delicious balance of textures and flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Curious to bring this easy yet indulgent recipe into your kitchen? Let’s get cooking! Why is this Pretzel Crusted Chicken special? Uniquely Crunchy: The pretzel crust creates an irresistibly crispy exterior that will have you reaching for seconds. Gourmet Flavor: The cheddar mustard sauce adds a creamy richness and tang that elevates this dish from simple to sensational. Family-Friendly: Perfectly suited for busy nights, this recipe balances flavor and convenience, making it ideal for the whole family. Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different mustard flavors or even cheeses for a unique twist each time you prepare this dish. Quick & Easy: In just 45 minutes, you can serve up a restaurant-quality meal that will impress family and friends alike! If you love quick comfort food recipes, check out our guide on easy weeknight meals. Pretzel Crusted Chicken Ingredients • Looking to create that delightful crunch? Here’s what you’ll need! For the Chicken Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless for even cooking and a tender bite. Flour – Coats the chicken for initial crispness; gluten-free flour works too! Eggs – Binds the pretzel coating; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option. Dijon Mustard – Adds a zesty tang; yellow mustard can be used if necessary. For the Crust Crushed Pretzels – This gives the chicken its signature crunch; freshly crushed is best. Garlic Powder – Boosts the flavor; fresh garlic is an excellent choice for more intensity. Paprika – Adds a warm color and subtle flavor; smoked paprika elevates the taste experience. Olive Oil or Melted Butter – Helps achieve a crispy texture when brushed on chicken before cooking. For the Sauce Milk – Forms the base of the cheddar mustard sauce; low-fat or non-dairy options work beautifully. Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts into a creamy sauce that ties it all together; part-skim mozzarella is a lighter alternative. Parsley (optional) – For a fresh garnish that adds a pop of color. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Step 1: Prepare Chicken Begin by placing boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even ½-inch thickness, ensuring they cook uniformly. Once flattened, generously season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor of your Pretzel Crusted Chicken. Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations Create three distinct stations for breading your chicken. In the first bowl, add flour for a light coating. In the second bowl, whisk together eggs and Dijon mustard until smooth. Finally, in a third bowl, combine crushed pretzels, garlic powder, and paprika. These steps will streamline the coating process. Step 3: Coat Chicken Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the flour, coating it evenly, then transfer it to the egg mixture to ensure the pretzel crust adheres well. Finally, press the chicken into the crushed pretzel mixture, making sure to cover every surface thoroughly for an irresistibly crunchy texture on your Pretzel Crusted Chicken. Step 4: Cook Chicken For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it with olive oil or melted butter. Place the coated chicken on the sheet and brush the tops with more oil or butter, then bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If pan-frying, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, cooking each piece for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Step 5: Make Cheddar Mustard Sauce While the chicken cooks, prepare the delectable cheddar mustard sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and stir in the mustard and sharp cheddar cheese, allowing them to melt into a creamy sauce. Season to taste. Step 6: Serve Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, plate each piece and generously drizzle with the rich cheddar mustard sauce. For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. This beautiful plating will elevate your Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce into a gourmet experience. Make Ahead Options These Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the coated chicken up to 24 hours in advance by following these steps: After breading the chicken, lay the pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This prevents the crust from getting soggy. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake or pan-fry the chicken directly from the fridge, adjusting the cooking time by a minute or two if needed. The result will be just as delicious and crispy, making dinner a breeze! Pretzel Crusted Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with your Pretzel Crusted Chicken! Let’s explore a few delicious ideas to put your own spin on this dish. Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time to ensure they reach the right temperature. Vegan Version: Use egg substitutes like flax eggs and opt for tofu or tempeh in place of chicken, maintaining the same delicious pretzel crust and creamy sauce. Different Mustards: Experiment with various mustards, like honey mustard or whole grain, for a unique twist in the sauce and an exciting flavor adventure. Cheese Swaps: Incorporate different cheeses, such as smoked gouda or pepper jack, into the cheddar mustard sauce for an unexpected and delightful cheesiness. Add Some Heat: Spice things up by adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the pretzel crust for a hint of heat that will excite your taste buds. Herbed Crust: Mix dried herbs, such as oregano or thyme, into your pretzel coating for an aromatic flavor boost that complements the savory chicken beautifully. Nutty Crunch: Combine crushed pretzels with a handful of crushed nuts, like almonds or pecans, for added texture and a hint of nutty flavor in your crust. Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup over the chicken before serving for a sweet contrast to the savory pretzel and cheese. Each of these variations can bring a new twist to your favorite Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce recipe. Why not try a few different combinations? It’s a chance to play with flavors, just like when you make those delightful easy weeknight meals for your family! Enjoy your cooking adventure! Tips for the Best Pretzel Crusted Chicken Rest Before Cooking: Allow the coated chicken to sit for 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure the pretzel coating adheres perfectly. Fresh Pretzels Matter: Use freshly crushed pretzels for a crunchier texture; avoid pre-bagged varieties that may lack the same satisfying bite. Watch Cooking Times: Ensure even cooking by adjusting the time based on the thickness of your chicken pieces. Thicker pieces may need a few extra minutes. Sauce Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning in your cheddar mustard sauce; a pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile. Keep Crispy: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container but keep the sauce separate to maintain the crispy texture of your pretzel crust. What to Serve with Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Elevate your family dinner with delightful sides that complement crispy, savory chicken perfectly. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, velvety texture of mashed potatoes is the ideal contrast to the crunchy chicken, soaking up the robust cheddar mustard sauce. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender, roasted broccoli brings a touch of earthiness and a hint of garlic, perfectly balancing flavorful richness. Classic Coleslaw: Crunchy, tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing bite that cuts through the creaminess of the sauce, adding a bright element. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized, crunchy exterior of Brussels sprouts creates an exciting textural contrast, enhancing your meal’s flavor profile. For a cohesive experience, consider making a light side salad with mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette. It adds freshness while cleansing the palate between bites of the rich, pretzel-crusted chicken. Pair your meal with a crisp apple cider or a refreshing lemon-infused sparkling water for a delightful beverage that complements the dish beautifully. Storage Tips for Pretzel Crusted Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Pretzel Crusted Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the cheddar mustard sauce separate to maintain crispiness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked, coated chicken in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. It will last up to 2 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the crust stays crisp. Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the chicken ahead of time. Refrigerate coiled chicken for up to 24 hours before cooking! Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Recipe FAQs What kind of chicken is best for this recipe? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for that juicy, tender bite. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too; just adjust the cooking time since thighs may take slightly longer to cook through. How should I store leftover Pretzel Crusted Chicken? To keep your leftovers as fresh as possible, store the coated chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the cheddar mustard sauce separate to maintain the crispiness of the pretzel coating. Can I freeze uncooked coated chicken? Absolutely! To freeze your uncooked Pretzel Crusted Chicken, place the coated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they’ll last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, just adding 10 extra minutes to the cooking time. What should I do if my pretzel coating isn’t sticking? If you find your pretzel coating isn’t adhering well, try letting the coated chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This allows the egg and the pretzel mixture to bond more effectively. Additionally, ensure your chicken is adequately coated in flour and egg mixture before dipping it into the crushed pretzels—this is key! Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes! To make this Pretzel Crusted Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free pretzels. For the cheddar mustard sauce, you can use cornstarch instead of regular flour to thicken it, and it works wonderfully. How long does the cheddar mustard sauce last in the fridge? If you have any cheddar mustard sauce left over, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You may need to reheat it gently in a saucepan, stirring until smooth, before serving it again. Enjoy! Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce Delight Enjoy a gourmet experience with Crispy Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar Mustard Sauce, perfect for busy nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts even cooking and tender bite1 cup Flour gluten-free flour works too2 large Eggs or flax egg for vegan option2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard or yellow mustard if necessaryFor the Crust2 cups Crushed Pretzels freshly crushed is best1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh garlic for more intensity1 teaspoon Paprika smoked paprika elevates flavor2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Melted Butter for brushing before cookingFor the Sauce1 cup Milk low-fat or non-dairy options work1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese or part-skim mozzarella for lighter alternative2 tablespoons Parsley optional fresh garnish Equipment OvenSkilletBaking SheetMeat malletBowls for BreadingSaucepan Method Preparation StepsBegin by placing boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound them to an even ½-inch thickness. Once flattened, season both sides with salt and pepper.Create three stations for breading: one with flour, another with whisked eggs and Dijon mustard, and the third with crushed pretzels, garlic powder, and paprika.Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally press into the crushed pretzel mixture to coat thoroughly.Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet greased with olive oil or melted butter. Place the coated chicken and brush the tops with more oil or butter, then bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.While the chicken bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk until thick. Stir in mustard and sharp cheddar, season to taste.Once the chicken is cooked, plate and drizzle with the cheddar mustard sauce and sprinkle with parsley for garnish. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 40gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg NotesAllow coated chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes before cooking for better adherence of the pretzel coating. Store leftovers in an airtight container, keeping sauce separate to maintain crispiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
