Description
This Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is a crispy, flavorful twist on classic chicken — tender chicken breasts coated in crunchy crushed pretzels and baked (or fried) to golden perfection, then drizzled with a rich, tangy mustard-cheddar sauce that takes it over the top.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups crushed pretzels (about 6 oz)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying or brushing)
- For the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and one with crushed pretzels.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in egg mixture, then coat generously with crushed pretzels. Press to help the crumbs stick.
- Place on baking sheet and brush lightly with olive oil (or pan-fry in 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side before baking).
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, cayenne, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Serve: Drizzle the mustard-cheddar sauce generously over the crispy pretzel chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use chicken tenders for a quicker cooking version — perfect for kids.
- Substitute cheddar with Gruyère or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Crush pretzels finely for an even coating or leave them chunkier for extra crunch.
- Pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked or Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American