Name: Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489004H56M10S
Total time: PT-489004H56M10S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (to mix with eggs); ½ cup milk; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you are searching for a show-stopping entree that combines crunch, zest, and cheesy goodness all in one, look no further than Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients. This dish offers the perfect balance of a crispy pretzel coating hugging juicy chicken breasts, paired with a creamy, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce that elevates every bite. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe brings comfort and excitement to your plate with simple, approachable ingredients and a crowd-pleasing flavor profile.

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients is a breeze thanks to straightforward components that each play an essential role. From the bold seasoning of the chicken to the crunchy pretzel crust and the rich, creamy sauce, every item adds its own touch of magic to the dish.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein base that stays juicy beneath its crispy coating.
2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels: Provides that irresistible crunch and subtle saltiness in the crust.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick evenly for a perfect crust.
2 large eggs: Keeps the coating intact while adding moisture and richness.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds tangy depth and ties the breading and sauce flavors together.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses mild savory warmth to the chicken.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a subtle sweet note.
Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce giving it velvety texture and sharpness.
½ cup milk: Creates the creamy base for the mustard-cheddar sauce.
1 cup mustard-cheddar sauce (recipe below): The pièce de résistance that you’ll pour over the crispy chicken.

How to Make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, then line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This sets you up for perfectly baked, crispy chicken with minimal fuss.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple seasoning brings out natural flavors before the embossing of the pretzel crust, so don’t skip this essential step.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

Creating three bowls will make breading smooth and efficient: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with crushed pretzels. Each station adds a layer of texture and flavor, and the mustard-infused eggs provide incredible tang beneath the crunchy coating.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first into the flour ensuring it’s fully coated. Follow up with the egg and Dijon mixture, letting excess drip off. Finally, press it into the crushed pretzels so they adhere perfectly. This triple-layer breading guarantees a crunchy, flavorful crust after baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the coated chicken on the baking sheet and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The chicken will come out golden brown with a satisfyingly crisp crust.

Step 6: Prepare the Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients

While your chicken bakes, whisk together milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once heated through, gradually stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat so it’s ready to drizzle over the finished chicken.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

After baking, let the Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients rest for a few minutes to lock in juices. Then plate your golden chicken, topped with the luscious cheese sauce for a mouthwatering presentation.

How to Serve Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce and crunchy pretzel coating. A light sprinkle of smoked paprika can also bring a subtle warmth to the dish.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic comfort sides — think buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables with a hint of garlic, or even a simple crisp green salad to balance the richness. Each side helps round out the meal and complement the star flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts into strips after cooking and arrange them fan-style on the plate alongside dollops of mustard-cheddar sauce. Serve with pretzel bites for an extra theme touch, turning your meal into an irresistible shareable platter perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps keep the chicken moist while retaining some of the crunchy coating.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze the mustard-cheddar sauce separately in a small airtight container. They will keep well for up to 3 months, ready for quick meals.

Reheating

Reheat chicken breasts in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes to revive the crispiness. Warm the sauce gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use pretzel crumbs as a substitute for breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! Pretzel crumbs add a unique salty crunch and a slightly buttery flavor that breadcrumbs simply can’t match. They are the highlight of this recipe’s texture and taste.

Is the mustard-cheddar sauce difficult to make?

Not at all. The sauce comes together quickly with simple ingredients, and stirring the cheddar in slowly ensures a smooth, creamy finish without clumps.

Can I cook this recipe on a stovetop instead of baking?

You could pan-fry the breaded chicken breasts, but baking helps maintain a crisp crust without extra oil. It also cooks the chicken evenly while keeping it juicy inside.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?

If Dijon mustard is not available, you can use yellow mustard, spicy brown mustard, or even a bit of horseradish for a different but tasty twist in both the coating and the sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients reheats beautifully and can be prepared in advance. Keep the sauce separate until ready to serve to keep everything fresh.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients, it will quickly become one of your favorite new go-to dinners. The fun crunch of the pretzel crust paired with the luscious homemade sauce creates a comforting dish that feels elevated but is incredibly easy to make. Go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this deliciously satisfying recipe — you won’t regret it!

Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar SauceIngredients Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 5 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce features juicy, crispy chicken breasts coated in a crunchy pretzel crust and baked to perfection. Paired with a creamy, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce, this dish offers a delicious combination of textures and flavors that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easier cleanup.
Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to build a flavorful base.
Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with crushed pretzels—to prepare for coating the chicken.
Bread Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, ensuring it is fully coated, then into the egg and mustard mixture allowing excess to drip off, and finally press it firmly into the crushed pretzels so the crust adheres well.
Bake Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the crust is a golden brown, indicating crispiness and doneness.
Prepare Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: While the chicken bakes, heat the milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce together over medium heat in a small saucepan, stirring continuously until hot.
Add Cheese: Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese to the warm milk mixture, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper as desired, then remove from heat.
Serve: Allow the baked chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to redistribute juices, then serve hot with the creamy mustard-cheddar sauce drizzled or on the side.

Notes

Use coarsely crushed pretzels to ensure a crunchy crust that sticks well.
Check chicken internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard in both the breading and sauce for desired tanginess.
You can substitute regular milk with low-fat milk for a lighter sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American