Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pretzel Chicken is an exciting twist on classic breaded chicken. The pretzel coating gives the chicken an irresistible crunch, while the mustard-cheddar sauce adds a rich and tangy flavor that complements the savory chicken perfectly. It’s a simple yet indulgent dish that’s easy to make but feels gourmet. Whether you’re serving it with a side of mashed potatoes, a salad, or steamed veggies, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

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 mustard-cheddar sauce (recipe below)

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

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken: Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard. In the third bowl, add the crushed pretzels. Dip each chicken breast into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the crushed pretzels. Press the pretzels onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet and finish cooking in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Make the mustard-cheddar sauce: While the chicken is baking, prepare the mustard-cheddar sauce. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and whisk until smooth and melted. Stir in the Dijon mustard and garlic powder, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Continue whisking until the sauce is creamy and heated through.
5. Serve: Once the chicken is done, plate it and drizzle the mustard-cheddar sauce generously over the top. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mustard-cheddar sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken breasts with breaded and baked tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
• Different Cheese: Use a different cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or pepper jack to add a unique flavor to the mustard-cheddar sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy again. You can also microwave the mustard-cheddar sauce separately to warm it up.

FAQs

Can I use pretzel crumbs instead of coarsely crushed pretzels?

Yes, pretzel crumbs will work well for coating the chicken, but coarsely crushed pretzels provide extra crunch and texture.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pretzels and all-purpose gluten-free flour as substitutes for the regular flour and pretzels.

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

Yes, you can bake the coated chicken directly on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and fully cooked.

How can I make the mustard-cheddar sauce spicier?

For an extra kick, add a small amount of Dijon mustard, hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Can I use a different type of cheese in the sauce?

Yes! You can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.

How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?

To keep the chicken moist, be sure to not overcook it. Cooking the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensures it’s fully cooked but still juicy. Additionally, finishing the chicken in the oven after pan-frying helps retain moisture.

Can I prepare the mustard-cheddar sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency.

How do I keep the pretzel coating crispy?

To keep the pretzel coating crispy, avoid covering the chicken right after it’s cooked, and try to serve it right away. If storing leftovers, reheat the chicken in the oven to restore its crispiness.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Roasted or sautéed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make great side dishes for Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

You can marinate the chicken in a little mustard and olive oil before coating it in pretzels for extra flavor. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added fragrance.

Conclusion

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is a deliciously crispy, flavorful dish that takes chicken to the next level. The crunchy pretzel crust paired with the creamy, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce creates an irresistible combination. Whether served with a side of veggies or your favorite starch, this dish is a fun and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the crispy goodness and rich flavors in every bite!

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