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 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you’re craving a dish that’s crunchy, flavorful, and downright addictive, Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a golden, crunchy pretzel crust with a rich, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce that’s the perfect companion every bite. Imagine that satisfying pretzel crunch complementing the creamy, slightly sharp sauce—it’s an experience that’s cozy, comforting, and just a little bit indulgent. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is sure to become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce comes down to simple, well-chosen ingredients. Each item plays a key role: from the crunchy crushed pretzels that give the chicken its signature texture to the sharp cheddar that melts into the smooth sauce, these essentials set the stage for a truly memorable meal.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: A lean, versatile protein that soaks up flavors beautifully and stays juicy when baked.
Coarsely crushed pretzels: They create that irresistible crunchy coating that’s a delightful twist from typical breadcrumbs.
All-purpose flour: Helps the egg mixture stick evenly to the chicken, ensuring the pretzels coat perfectly.
Large eggs: Serve as a binding agent to anchor the crunchy pretzels onto the chicken.
Dijon mustard: Infuses a mild tang into both the breading and the sauce for a layered flavor profile.
Garlic powder and onion powder: Classic seasonings that add depth and a savory hint to the chicken.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the overall taste.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce to bring creamy richness with a touch of sharpness.
Milk: Creates a silky smooth base for the mustard-cheddar sauce.

How to Make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and perfect crisping as the chicken bakes.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Give your chicken breasts a tasty upgrade by seasoning them evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This seasoning base will elevate every bite.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

Create three stations to make coating quick and mess-free: one bowl for flour, one for beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one for the coarse crushed pretzels. This assembly line gets you ready to turn plain chicken into a culinary masterpiece.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Carefully dip each chicken breast first in flour to coat, then into the egg and mustard mixture, letting excess drip away, and finally dredge it in the pretzels. Press gently so the crunchy coating adheres well, setting the stage for a crispy finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the lined baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for around 25-30 minutes until the crust is a beautiful golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), promising juicy, safe-to-eat meat.

Step 6: Whip Up the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

While the chicken bakes, gently heat the milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese gradually until the sauce is velvety smooth. Season with salt and pepper to balance the creamy tang perfectly.

Step 7: Let It Rest and Prepare to Serve

Once your Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is out of the oven, allow it to rest a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for tender bites and keeps the crust crisp.

How to Serve Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

Garnishes

Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives not only brightens the dish visually but adds a fresh contrast to the rich mustard-cheddar sauce. A sprinkle of smoked paprika over the sauce can also add depth and a subtle kick.

Side Dishes

Rich dishes like Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce pair beautifully with simple sides such as steamed green beans, roasted baby carrots, or a crisp garden salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, buttery mashed potatoes or creamy mac and cheese are perfect companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken and stacking it on a bed of sautéed spinach or toasted ciabatta bread for a cozy sandwich. Alternatively, serve the chicken alongside roasted vegetables and drizzle the mustard-cheddar sauce both over the chicken and the sides for a restaurant-style presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain its creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken breasts individually wrapped in foil or plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. The sauce freezes best when stored in a separate airtight container.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Warm the mustard-cheddar sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for even cooking and easy breading, bone-in pieces can be used but will require longer baking times to ensure they’re cooked through.

What type of pretzels work best?

Use coarsely crushed salted pretzels for the ideal texture and flavor balance. Avoid overly fine crumbs—they won’t give you that satisfying crunch.

Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard?

If Dijon isn’t on hand, spicy brown mustard or a mild yellow mustard can work, though the flavor profile will vary slightly.

Can I make the mustard-cheddar sauce dairy-free?

Absolutely! Replace regular milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheddar-style shreds to keep it creamy and delicious.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The crust should be golden and the juices clear when cut into.

Final Thoughts

This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce recipe is one of those dishes that brings a little excitement to the dinner table without overcomplicating your cooking routine. The satisfying crunch, the tangy-cheesy sauce, and the juicy chicken make every forkful a delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the deliciousness for yourself—it might just become your new go-to comfort food!

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 8 reviews

Author: Sarah
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is a crispy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a crunchy pretzel crust and baked to perfection. Served with a creamy, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce, this recipe combines savory textures and rich flavors, making it an excellent choice for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to enhance their natural flavor.
Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with crushed pretzels. This setup will help achieve an even coating on the chicken.
Bread Chicken: Coat each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg mixture allowing extra to drip off, and finally press into the crushed pretzels until well covered to create a crispy crust.
Bake Chicken: Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the crust is golden and crunchy.
Prepare Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: While chicken bakes, heat milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warm.
Add Cheese: Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese to the warm mixture, stirring continuously until the cheese melts smoothly. Season with salt and pepper to your preference, then remove from heat.
Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve topped with the creamy mustard-cheddar sauce for a delicious combination.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use freshly crushed pretzels rather than pretzel crumbs.
Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; pound them lightly if needed.
Feel free to adjust the amount of mustard in the egg mixture and sauce to suit your taste preferences.
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain crispness.

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