Name: Pretzel Chicken with Mustard Cheddar Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491720H7M15S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 2 cups crushed pretzels; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter

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Introduction

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard Cheddar Sauce combines a crunchy pretzel crust with juicy, tender chicken breasts and a creamy, tangy cheese sauce. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal fuss.

The image shows three pieces of crispy fried chicken with a rough, golden-brown crust, stacked closely together. Each piece is covered with a thick, creamy mustard-yellow sauce that drips down the sides. Small green herb bits are sprinkled over the sauce, adding color contrast. The dish sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface, highlighting the rich textures and colors of the chicken and sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
2 cups crushed pretzels
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet to prepare for the chicken.
Step 2: Set up three shallow dishes: one with the flour, one with the eggs whisked together with Dijon mustard, and one with the crushed pretzels.
Step 3: Coat each chicken breast by dipping first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg and mustard mixture, and finally press into the crushed pretzels to coat thoroughly.
Step 4: Arrange the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: While the chicken bakes, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Serve the pretzel-crusted chicken immediately, topped generously with the mustard-cheddar sauce.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, lightly toast the crushed pretzels before coating the chicken.
Ensure the chicken is dry before coating to help the crust adhere and stay crispy.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each piece space to cook evenly.
Try substituting Dijon mustard with honey mustard or spicy brown mustard for different flavor notes.
Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and mustard-cheddar sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven to maintain its crispy crust, and gently warm the sauce on the stovetop to prevent separation.

How to Serve

The image shows several pieces of crispy fried chicken with a rough, crunchy texture and golden brown color, layered closely together. On top of and around the chicken, there is a creamy mustard-colored sauce with a smooth texture that glistens under the light. Bright green chopped herbs are sprinkled on the sauce and chicken, adding a fresh contrast to the warm tones. The dish is presented on a white plate, set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What makes this Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce so amazing?

The combination of the crunchy pretzel crust and juicy chicken paired with a creamy, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It’s both indulgent and easy to make, making it a favorite at potlucks and family dinners.

Can I use different types of mustard in this recipe?

Absolutely! Dijon mustard offers a classic sharpness, honey mustard adds sweetness, and spicy brown mustard brings heat. Choose the type that suits your taste preferences to personalize this versatile recipe.

How can I ensure my pretzel chicken coating stays crispy?

Make sure the chicken is dry before coating, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, and consider toasting the crushed pretzels before using them. Serving the chicken immediately after baking also helps keep the coating crisp.

What sides pair well with Pretzel Chicken and Mustard-Cheddar Sauce?

Fresh green salads, roasted vegetables, creamy coleslaw, potato salad, mac and cheese, or mashed potatoes all complement this dish wonderfully, balancing its rich and crunchy flavors.