Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is a delightful twist on classic breaded chicken, featuring a crunchy, golden pretzel coating paired with a creamy, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce. This dish combines comfort food flavors with a fun and creative presentation, perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The salty pretzel crust provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth, cheesy sauce, creating a dish that’s both hearty and sophisticated.

I remember the first time I made this for a family dinner. The golden pretzel coating shimmered under the kitchen lights, and the aroma of melted cheddar and tangy mustard filled the air. The first bite was met with a chorus of “Wow!” from everyone at the table. What I love about this dish is its versatility—you can serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal, or pair it with a fresh salad for a lighter option. The mustard-cheddar sauce is the star, though. It’s creamy, sharp, and just the right amount of tangy to complement the crunchy chicken.

Surprisingly easy to make, this dish starts with a simple breading process using crushed pretzels for that signature crunch. The sauce comes together quickly with just a few pantry staples, making it perfect for busy nights or impromptu entertaining. Whether you’re looking to elevate your chicken game or impress your guests with a unique yet comforting dish, Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Game day feasts
  • Potlucks
  • Weeknight indulgence

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce will become a staple in your recipe collection:

  • Unique Pretzel Crust: A fun and flavorful alternative to traditional breaded chicken.
  • Creamy Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: Adds a tangy, cheesy complement to the crunchy chicken.
  • Kid-Friendly: Kids love the crunch of pretzels and the cheesy sauce.
  • Customizable: Easy to adapt with your favorite cheeses or seasonings.
  • Quick and Easy: Perfect for a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups crushed pretzels
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter for baking

For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk (or a milk alternative)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Pretzels: Provide a salty, crunchy coating that’s full of flavor.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Adds rich, creamy depth to the sauce.
  • Dijon Mustard: Offers a tangy kick that balances the cheese and complements the chicken.
  • Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika enhance the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Prepare the Coating Station: Place the flour in one shallow bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the crushed pretzels mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the pretzel mixture. Press gently to ensure the pretzels adhere well.
  4. Bake or Pan-Fry the Chicken: Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter for extra crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden. Alternatively, pan-fry the chicken in a skillet with 2-3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat until golden and fully cooked.

Prepare the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:

  1. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
  2. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
  3. Add the Cheese and Mustard: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Serve:

  1. Plate the Dish: Place the pretzel-crusted chicken on a plate and drizzle generously with the mustard-cheddar sauce.
  2. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or a sprinkle of crushed pretzels.

How to Serve

  • With a Side of Veggies: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus, for a balanced meal.
  • Over Mashed Potatoes: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.
  • With a Salad: Complement with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a lighter option.
  • As a Sandwich: Slice the chicken and serve on a bun with lettuce and tomato for a hearty sandwich.

Additional Tips

  • Use a food processor to crush pretzels quickly and evenly.
  • Thin out thick chicken breasts for even cooking by pounding them gently.
  • For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the pretzel coating.
  • If you prefer extra sauce, double the mustard-cheddar sauce recipe.

Recipe Variations

  1. Honey Mustard Sauce: Swap Dijon mustard for honey mustard for a sweeter flavor.
  2. Spicy Cheddar Sauce: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheddar sauce.
  3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pretzels and flour for a gluten-free version.
  4. Mozzarella Sauce: Substitute mozzarella cheese for a milder flavor.
  5. Air Fryer Version: Cook the chicken in an air fryer for a lighter option.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Freeze the coated chicken (before baking) for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
  • Storage: Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment

  • Baking sheet or skillet
  • Saucepan for the mustard-cheddar sauce
  • Food processor for crushing pretzels (optional)
  • Whisk for the sauce

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, adjust the cooking time as needed.
  2. Can I prepare this ahead of time? Coat the chicken and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
  3. Can I make this dairy-free? Use dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives for the sauce.
  4. Can I air fry this? Yes, cook at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  5. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

Conclusion

Savor the irresistible crunch of Pretzel Chicken, perfectly paired with the creamy, tangy goodness of Mustard-Cheddar Sauce. This dish combines bold flavors and satisfying textures, with tender chicken coated in a crispy pretzel crust and a rich sauce that takes it to the next level.

Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, Pretzel Chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its unique blend of salty, crunchy, and creamy elements makes it a standout dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.

I’d love to see how your Pretzel Chicken turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy every crunchy, saucy bite!

Leave a Comment