Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of crunchy, pretzel-coated chicken wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy pub where comfort food reigns supreme. This Crispy Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is my go-to recipe for a fast weeknight dinner that never fails to impress. Not only is it a fun twist on traditional chicken, but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser, perfect for satisfying those cravings without relying on fast food. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal that is both crispy and creamy, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures in every bite. Are you ready to dive into a comforting culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds? Why is Pretzel Chicken a Family Favorite? Comforting and Fun: This Pretzel Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its crunchy coating and creamy sauce, it transforms an ordinary dinner into something special that appeals to kids and adults alike. Flavor Explosion: The zesty mustard-cheddar sauce provides a delightful contrast to the salty pretzel crust, ensuring every bite is a savory adventure that will have your taste buds dancing. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in no time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with family. Versatile Side Pairing: Whether you serve it with crispy fries or a refreshing arugula salad, this meal adapts beautifully to your preferences. You can also try it alongside Garlic Chicken Thighs for an irresistible feast! Gluten-Free Option: With easy substitutions, such as using gluten-free pretzels for a homemade feel, everyone can join in on the deliciousness without a worry. Pretzel Chicken Ingredients • Ready to get cooking? Here’s what you’ll need to make your Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce. For the Chicken Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – A must-have protein that keeps the dish hearty and satisfying. Coarsely Crushed Pretzels – These give an irresistible crunchy coating; opt for gluten-free pretzels to suit dietary needs. All-Purpose Flour – This helps the coating adhere to the chicken, ensuring a perfect crunch. Large Eggs – Serve as the binding agent, holding the crispy coating in place. For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Dijon Mustard – Delivers a sharp and tangy kick; if you’re in a pinch, yellow mustard works as a substitute. Shredded Cheddar Cheese – The star of the sauce, bringing richness; Gruyère or pepper jack can add an exciting twist. Milk – Provides the creamy base for the sauce; feel free to swap with half-and-half or almond milk for a dairy-free option. Worcestershire Sauce – Adds that essential umami flavor for depth in the sauce. Seasoning Garlic Powder – Amplifies flavor throughout the dish; a little goes a long way! Onion Powder – Works beautifully with garlic for added depth and richness. Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors; adjust to your personal taste! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure that your Pretzel Chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice crisp on the outside. Gather three shallow bowls for the coating process while you prepare the chicken. Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station In one bowl, add all-purpose flour for coating; in the second, whisk together large eggs and a tablespoon of Dijon mustard until well combined. In the third bowl, mix coarsely crushed pretzels with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This established station will streamline your dredging process for the crispy pretzel crust. Step 3: Coat the Chicken Take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and coat it lightly with flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered before transferring it to the bowl of seasoned pretzels. Press the pretzel mixture firmly onto the chicken to secure the crunchy coating, then set aside. Step 4: Rest the Coated Chicken Let the coated chicken breasts rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This resting time helps the pretzel crust adhere better and ensures a crispy finish when baked. While they rest, consider preparing the mustard-cheddar sauce. Step 5: Bake the Chicken Place the prepared chicken on your lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For an extra crunchy layer, you can broil for an additional 1–2 minutes at the end of the baking cycle. Step 6: Make the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce While the chicken is baking, combine shredded cheddar cheese, milk, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This rich sauce will perfectly complement your crispy Pretzel Chicken. Step 7: Slice and Serve Once baked, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period keeps the juices in the chicken, making it more tender. Serve the sliced Pretzel Chicken drizzled with the mustard-cheddar sauce on top, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to bring smiles to your dining table. How to Store and Freeze Pretzel Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Pretzel Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain its flavor and prevents it from drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. It can last for up to 2 months. Reheating: Reheat chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispiness, rather than using the microwave which may make it soggy. Sauce Storage: Keep the mustard-cheddar sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating gently on the stove before serving. Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Variations Feel free to get creative with your recipe and make it your own, adding unique twists that suit your taste buds! Dairy-Free: Substitute cheddar with vegan cheese and use almond milk to make the sauce creamy without dairy. Embrace a plant-based journey with a comforting sauce that doesn’t compromise on flavor! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pretzels for a crispy alternative, making this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy the same delightful crunch without worrying about gluten; everyone can dig in! Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the pretzel coating for a fiery touch that enhances each bite. Amp up the heat and turn up the fun with this spicy twist that brings a new dimension to your pretzel chicken! Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the flour for a fragrant coating that brings brightness to the dish. Herbs elevate the whole dish, transforming your chicken into a lively culinary experience! Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar for Gruyère or pepper jack cheese in the sauce for an exciting flavor twist. Play with your palate; each cheese brings its own personality, turning every meal into a delightful surprise! Panko-Crusted: Use panko breadcrumbs in place of crushed pretzels for an even lighter, airier crispy texture. Panko brings an extra crunch that will make you feel like you’re dining at a high-end restaurant! Sauce Variations: Mix in some sriracha or a dash of hot sauce for a flavorful mustard-cheddar sauce that packs a punch. This twist takes your dip to another level, leaving your taste buds dancing for joy! Chicken Alternatives: Try using chicken thighs or even turkey breasts for a rich, juicy alternative that offers a different flavor profile. Switching up the protein keeps things interesting while still maintaining that crunchy goodness you’ll love! Looking for other delicious meal ideas? Pair your Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce alongside Grilled Shrimp Sauce or enjoy it with some Sausage Sweet Sauce. You won’t regret it! Make Ahead Options These Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the coated chicken up to 24 hours in advance by following the dredging steps and then sealing them tightly in the refrigerator. This way, the crust will still remain crispy when baked. Additionally, the mustard-cheddar sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days; simply reheat it on the stovetop, whisking in a touch of milk to restore creaminess. When you’re ready to serve, bake the prepped chicken as directed for delicious results with minimal effort! What to Serve with Crispy Pretzel Chicken with Tangy Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Imagine a delightful feast where each bite perfectly complements the crispy, savory chicken, creating a joyful dinner experience! Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These fluffy potatoes add a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with the crunch of the chicken and the tangy sauce. Garlic Green Beans: This vibrant, nutritious side brings a fresh, crisp contrast with just the right amount of garlic to elevate each bite. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet and crunchy, these fries offer a delicious interplay of sweet and salty flavors that pair perfectly with the pretzel chicken. Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy coleslaw provides refreshing brightness, cutting through the richness of the mustard-cheddar sauce. Arugula Salad with Lemon Dressing: This peppery salad introduces a zesty zing that balances the hearty flavors, making for a light and invigorating side. Cold Beer or Sparkling Water: Enhance your meal with a refreshing beverage. A cold beer complements the savory notes, while sparkling water keeps things light and crisp. Warm Soft Pretzels: For those who can’t get enough of pretzel flavor, serve warm, soft pretzels on the side for a fun and nostalgic touch. Expert Tips for Pretzel Chicken Firm Pressing: Ensure you press the coarsely crushed pretzels firmly onto the chicken to achieve that irresistibly crispy texture. Monitor Baking Time: Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s reached 165°F (74°C) while keeping the crust golden. Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your mustard-cheddar sauce thickens too much, simply whisk in warm milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired creaminess. Avoiding Fine Crumbs: Use coarsely crushed pretzels to prevent a paste-like coating. Fine crumbs may result in a less crunchy finished product. Broiling Caution: When broiling at the end, watch closely to avoid burning the crust; just 1–2 minutes is usually enough for extra crispiness. Rest Time is Key: Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking helps retain the juices, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe FAQs What kind of pretzels should I use for the coating? I recommend using coarsely crushed pretzels for that perfect crunchy texture. If you’re going gluten-free, opt for gluten-free pretzels to achieve the same delightful crust! How long can I store leftover Pretzel Chicken in the fridge? Store any leftover Pretzel Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor, ensuring you can enjoy that deliciousness for another meal! Can I freeze the Pretzel Chicken? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze, lay the chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the chicken to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through, likely adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. What if the mustard-cheddar sauce gets too thick? If your sauce thickens too much while reheating, simply whisk in warm milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This will help revive the creaminess without losing that delightful flavor. Can my family with dairy allergies enjoy this dish? You can absolutely adjust this recipe for dietary needs! Substitute regular milk and cheese with almond milk and a dairy-free cheese for the mustard-cheddar sauce. Just make sure to check labels for allergens in your chosen products! How do I ensure the pretzel coating stays crispy after storing? To keep the crispy coating intact, avoid stacking the chicken layers in storage. Instead, place parchment paper between pieces if you’re keeping them for a day or two. When reheating, always pop it back into the oven rather than the microwave to maintain that crunch! Savory Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Bliss Crispy pretzel-coated chicken served with a tangy mustard-cheddar sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 4 piecesCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts2 cups Coarsely Crushed Pretzels Use gluten-free if necessary1 cup All-Purpose Flour2 large Large EggsFor the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be substituted1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Gruyère or pepper jack can be used1/2 cup Milk Substitute with half-and-half or almond milk for dairy-free1 tablespoon Worcestershire SauceSeasoning1 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Onion Powderto taste Saltto taste Pepper Equipment OvenBaking sheetParchment paperShallow bowlsSaucepan Method PreparationPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gather three shallow bowls for the coating process. Dredging StationIn one bowl, add all-purpose flour; in the second, whisk together large eggs and a tablespoon of Dijon mustard. In the third bowl, mix coarsely crushed pretzels with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coating the ChickenCoat each chicken breast lightly with flour, shake off excess, dip in the egg mixture, then coat with the pretzel mixture. Press the pretzel mixture firmly onto the chicken. Resting the ChickenLet the coated chicken breasts rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature. Baking the ChickenPlace the chicken on the lined baking sheet, and bake for approximately 25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Making the SauceCombine shredded cheddar cheese, milk, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a saucepan over medium heat until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. ServingAllow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serve drizzled with the mustard-cheddar sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesPress the pretzels firmly onto the chicken to achieve a crispy texture. Monitor baking time to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
