Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of warm, salty pretzels wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite pub. This Crispy Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce takes that nostalgic flavor and transforms it into a satisfying homemade meal. With a crunchy pretzel crust that adds texture and a creamy mustard-cheddar sauce that brings tangy goodness, this dish is as simple to prepare as it is delicious. Plus, it’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. And for those who need it, there’s a gluten-free option available! Are you ready to elevate your dinner game and delight your taste buds with this scrumptious fusion? Let’s dive in! Why is Pretzel Chicken a must-try? Flavorful Fusion: This dish delivers the ultimate combination of crispy and savory—a crunchy pretzel coating paired with a rich mustard-cheddar sauce that takes ordinary chicken to extraordinary heights. Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, this recipe can soon become a weeknight favorite that’s quicker than any takeout. Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends with a unique twist on a classic; it’s great for gatherings or cozy dinners. Serve it alongside some garlic green beans or crispy fries for a satisfying feast! Gluten-Free Option: Don’t worry if you need a gluten-free alternative—just swap regular pretzels with gluten-free ones, and everyone can join in the feast! Delicious Leftovers: This dish stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers—just reheat and enjoy again. Pretzel Chicken Ingredients Enhance your cooking experience with these simple ingredients for a delightful Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce. For the Chicken Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Your main protein, stay juicy and flavorful with this cut. Coarsely crushed pretzels – Adds that necessary crunch to the crust; gluten-free pretzels work too! All-purpose flour – Forms a base layer for the coating; opt for gluten-free flour if needed. Large eggs – Binds the crust beautifully to the chicken for a delectable texture. Garlic powder – Boosts flavor in the coating; feel free to add more for extra kick. Onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor; a must for a savory profile. Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning—don’t skip this step! For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy kick that complements the chicken perfectly and enhances the flavor. Shredded cheddar cheese – Creates a creamy sauce; Gruyère or pepper jack can also spice it up! Milk (or half-and-half) – Adds creaminess; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option. Worcestershire sauce – Brings umami depth to the sauce, making it truly irresistible. Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to create a fantastic Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent the pretzel chicken from sticking. This crucial step ensures an easy cleanup and provides a perfectly cooked chicken that won’t cling to the tray. Step 2: Set Up the Coating Station Create a coating station with three shallow bowls: one for all-purpose flour, another for beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and a third filled with coarsely crushed pretzels. This organized setup streamlines the process and allows you to coat the chicken pieces efficiently, ensuring every bite of your Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is packed with flavor. Step 3: Coat the Chicken Take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, allowing it to be fully coated. Finally, press it into the crushed pretzels, ensuring the crumbs adhere well by pressing firmly onto the surface. Let the coated chicken rest for about 10 minutes to set the crust. Step 4: Bake the Chicken Carefully place the rested, coated chicken on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a golden brown color and is cooked through—touch it gently to check for firmness, ensuring it’s no longer pink inside for that perfect crispy pretzel chicken. Step 5: Prepare the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce In a small saucepan over low heat, combine shredded cheddar cheese, milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk the mixture continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy, taking care not to boil it. This mustard-cheddar sauce will provide a deliciously tangy complement to your crispy chicken. Step 6: Rest and Serve Once the chicken has finished baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps retain its juiciness. Slice the chicken into strips if desired and serve it hot, generously drizzling the mustard-cheddar sauce over the top or on the side for dipping, making your meal unforgettable. Make Ahead Options These Crispy Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the chicken with flour, egg, and crushed pretzels up to 24 hours in advance. Simply place the coated chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate, helping to maintain the texture until you’re ready to cook. The mustard-cheddar sauce can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake the chicken straight from the fridge without the need for thawing, and drizzle with the sauce for a delightful meal that saves you time on busy weeknights. What to Serve with Crispy Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Elevate your dinner experience with delicious sides that beautifully complement the rich, flavorful notes of your pretzel chicken. Garlic Green Beans: Fresh and crisp, these green beans add a vibrant crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Crispy French Fries: Perfectly seasoned fries provide a familiar comfort that pairs delightfully with the unique pretzel crust. Enjoy dipping them into the mustard-cheddar sauce for an extra treat! Coleslaw: A tangy and refreshing crunch, coleslaw balances the richness of the chicken, adding brightness and texture to your plate. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with herbs and olive oil, roasted veggies bring both flavor and color, creating a delightful medley to enjoy alongside the chicken. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with a creamy dressing offers a classic contrast to the crunchy texture of the chicken, making it a favorite at the table. Apple Sauce: The sweet notes of applesauce create a great balance with the savory chicken, adding a refreshing bite that invites second helpings. Lemonade: A cool and refreshing drink, lemonade’s citrusy flavor cleanses the palate and enhances the overall dining experience. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a light and airy chocolate mousse to end the meal on a sweet note; the richness will have everyone begging for more! How to Store and Freeze Pretzel Chicken Fridge: Store leftover pretzel chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This helps keep the chicken crisp and the sauce fresh. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked pretzel chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To maintain the crispy crust, reheat chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Warm the mustard-cheddar sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until smooth. Expert Tips for Pretzel Chicken Crispy Crust: Press the pretzel crumbs firmly onto the chicken before baking; this ensures a crunchy, flavorful crust that won’t fall off. Right Textures: Use coarsely crushed pretzels to maintain crunch; overly fine crumbs can lead to a pasty texture. Perfect Sauce: If your mustard-cheddar sauce thickens too much, gradually whisk in warm milk to reach your desired consistency. Broil for Finish: For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end of baking—just keep a close eye to prevent burning. Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest after baking; this helps retain moisture and keeps it juicy, ensuring a delightful Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce. Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with delightful twists that cater to your tastes! Gluten-Free: Substitute regular pretzels and all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives for a tasty option everyone can enjoy. Gluten-free pretzels keep the crunch while ensuring a safe dish for sensitive eaters. Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère instead of cheddar for a more sophisticated cheese flavor. The nutty notes of Gruyère will elevate your sauce, giving it a gourmet touch. Spicy Kick: Replace Dijon mustard with spicy brown mustard or even sriracha for a delightful heat. This bold twist can transform the dish into a fiery indulgence for those who crave extra spice! Herbed Chicken: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the egg mixture for an aromatic boost. The fragrant herbs will infuse the chicken with extra flavor, making each bite an aromatic delight. Layered Toppings: Top the finished chicken with crispy fried onions or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor. They add a lovely crunch and earthy depth that complements the dish beautifully. Veggie Side: Serve with a side of roasted broccoli or sweet potato fries for a nutritious balance. The sweetness of the potatoes or the richness of the broccoli beautifully contrasts with the savory chicken. Mustard-Cream Sauce: For a creamier sauce, mix in a splash of cream or substitute milk with sour cream. This luscious twist adds a tangy smoothness that pairs splendidly with the crunch of the chicken. Make it a Meal: Turn this into a delightful chicken sandwich by placing the pretzel chicken in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce. Pair it with a side of Honey Pepper Chicken for a complete feast! These variations allow you to adapt the dish for any occasion while keeping the deliciousness at the forefront. Enjoy experimenting and savoring every bite! Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pretzels for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best results, look for coarsely crushed pretzels, as they provide a lovely crunch. If you’re opting for a gluten-free diet, there are excellent gluten-free pretzel options available in most grocery stores. Just ensure the pretzels are well-crushed but not too fine, as overly crushed pieces can lead to a pasty texture instead of a satisfying crunch. How should I store leftovers? Very important! Store your leftover pretzel chicken and mustard-cheddar sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. This method helps keep the chicken crisp and the sauce creamy. Just make sure to reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain its crunch—around 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes works wonders! Can I freeze pretzel chicken for later? Yes, you can! To freeze your baked pretzel chicken, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer the chicken to a freezer bag or an airtight container for up to 3 months. For reheating, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then pop it in the oven to get that delightful crispiness back. What if my chicken isn’t cooking through? If your chicken seems undercooked or isn’t reaching the right internal temperature (165°F or 74°C), it may need more time in the oven. Ovens can vary, so consider checking the thickness of your chicken breasts. If they’re thicker, increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes, checking periodically. A meat thermometer is helpful in these situations! Is this dish safe for kids or those with allergies? Absolutely! This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce can be a hit with kids, but always consider potential allergies. Ensure that you’re using ingredients that are safe for any specific dietary restrictions or allergies, such as opting for gluten-free pretzels and dairy-free milk as needed. It’s always great to check labels to avoid any allergens. Savory Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Delight This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is a unique, crowd-pleasing dish with a crunchy pretzel crust and creamy sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts2 cups Coarsely crushed pretzels gluten-free pretzels work too1 cup All-purpose flour opt for gluten-free flour if needed2 large Eggs beaten1 teaspoon Garlic powder1 teaspoon Onion powder1 teaspoon Salt1 teaspoon PepperFor the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce1/3 cup Dijon mustard1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese or Gruyère or pepper jack1/2 cup Milk or half-and-half1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Equipment Ovenbaking sheetParchment papershallow bowlsSmall saucepan Method Preheat OvenPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Set Up Coating StationSet up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with coarsely crushed pretzels.Coat the ChickenDredge each chicken breast in flour, dip it in the egg mixture, and then press it into the crushed pretzels. Let rest for 10 minutes.Bake the ChickenPlace coated chicken on the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 25 minutes.Prepare Mustard-Cheddar SauceCombine shredded cheddar, milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a saucepan over low heat, whisking until smooth.Rest and ServeAllow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with mustard-cheddar sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesFor extra crispiness, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end of baking and whisk warm milk into the sauce if it thickens too much. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
