Name: Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup milk; 1 cup prepared mustard-cheddar sauce; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you’re looking to wow your taste buds with something both comforting and delightfully crunchy, Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is your new go-to dish. This recipe combines the irresistible saltiness and crunch of crushed pretzels with tender, juicy chicken breasts, all perfectly complemented by a rich, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce. Every bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests. Trust me, once you try this Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic truly begins with simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a taste sensation. Each one plays a crucial role: from the pretzels providing that signature crunch, the cheese bringing creamy richness, to the mustard’s sharp tang that ties it all together beautifully.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that’s tender and juicy after baking.
2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels: Adds an irresistible salty crunch to the crust.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
2 large eggs: Binds the crust ingredients and coats the chicken beautifully.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Infuses a subtle zing that enhances both the breading and sauce.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the seasoning.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts savory notes in the crust.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance all flavors.
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a creamy, flavorful sauce.
½ cup milk: Creates a smooth base for the mustard-cheddar sauce.
1 cup mustard-cheddar sauce (homemade): The perfect tangy finishing touch for the chicken.

How to Make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your chicken bakes evenly without sticking, saving you some cleanup time later.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Give your chicken breasts some love by seasoning them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple seasoning adds a warm, savory base that shines beneath the crunchy coating.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

Get organized by prepping three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with the crushed pretzels. This classic breading setup makes the process smooth and ensures a crispy crust every time.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

First, dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure it’s completely covered. Next, dip it into the mustard-infused egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the crushed pretzels until it’s well coated, which gives you that iconic crunch your taste buds will adore.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Arrange the coated chicken breasts on your prepared tray and pop it into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the inside reaches a juicy 165°F (75°C) and the pretzel crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma alone will have you counting down the minutes.

Step 6: Whip Up the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

While the chicken is baking, warm the milk with Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is hot, then gradually melt in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until silky smooth. Season with salt and pepper, and you’re ready to bring it all together.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

When the chicken is perfectly baked, let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Serve it hot alongside a generous drizzle or dollop of that luscious mustard-cheddar sauce. You’ve just mastered Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce!

How to Serve Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate this dish beautifully. Consider sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top to add a pop of color and fresh herbal notes that balance the richness of the cheddar sauce.

Side Dishes

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a leafy green salad or steamed vegetables. Roasted potatoes or buttery mashed potatoes are classic comfort companions that soak up the creamy sauce in the most satisfying way.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce thinly and serve it on toasted baguette slices as an appetizer. Alternatively, place the chicken atop a bed of quinoa or rice and drizzle the mustard-cheddar sauce generously for a hearty meal presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Place cooled chicken breasts and the sauce (stored separately) in freezer-safe bags or containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes to keep the crust crispy. Warm the mustard-cheddar sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave, then serve fresh and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use pretzel crumbs other than store-bought?

Absolutely! You can crush your own pretzels at home using a rolling pin or food processor. This often results in fresher, chunkier crumbs that pack even more crunch into the chicken crust.

Is mustard-cheddar sauce vegetarian?

Yes, the mustard-cheddar sauce is vegetarian since it contains no meat or animal-derived ingredients beyond dairy and eggs in cheese. It’s a flavorful vegetarian-friendly option for dipping or drizzling.

What is the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Seasoning well, not over-baking, and letting the chicken rest after it’s done cooking are key to juicy results. Using boneless, skinless breasts and monitoring internal temperature ensures tender, succulent chicken.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pretzels. The recipe’s flavor and texture will remain just as amazing.

How spicy is the mustard-cheddar sauce?

The sauce has a tangy, mildly sharp flavor from the Dijon mustard, but it isn’t spicy hot. If you prefer more heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to adjust it to your liking.

Final Thoughts

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is truly a delightful crowd-pleaser that brings comfort food to the next level. With its crunchy pretzel crust and creamy, tangy sauce, this dish is both approachable and impressive. I can’t recommend it enough for your next family dinner or special occasion. Go ahead, give this recipe a try, and watch it become a treasured favorite in your meal rotation!

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 14 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a crunchy pretzel crust, perfectly baked to golden brown. Paired with a creamy and tangy mustard-cheddar sauce, this dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s perfect for an impressive dinner or a comforting family meal.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease clean-up.
Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts thoroughly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to infuse them with flavor before breading.
Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with crushed pretzels for coating.
Bread Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, coating completely, then into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, and finally press into the crushed pretzels to form a crunchy crust.
Bake Chicken: Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the crust is golden brown and crisp.
Prepare Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: While the chicken bakes, heat milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until combined and warm.
Add Cheese: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese to the warmed mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese melts smoothly. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Serve: Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking to retain its juices. Serve hot with the rich mustard-cheddar sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.

Notes

Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; pound lightly if necessary.
Use coarse pretzels for a more pronounced crunch in the crust.
Monitor the baking time closely to avoid overcooking which can dry out the chicken.
For a dairy-free version, substitute cheddar cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives suitable for melting.
Leftover mustard-cheddar sauce can be refrigerated up to 3 days and gently reheated before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American