Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce: Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends crunchy textures with rich, tangy flavors, you have to try the Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce. This recipe takes simple chicken breasts and wraps them in a crisp pretzel crust, then drapes them in a luscious mustard-cheddar sauce that’s creamy, sharp, and just a little bit indulgent. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or impressing friends, this dish brings warmth and excitement to your table with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce recipe plays a vital role in creating its signature crunch, tang, and comfort. The combination is straightforward yet thoughtfully balanced to deliver incredible taste and texture.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean base of the dish, perfect for absorbing flavors and staying juicy.
• 2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels: This is your crunchy coating that adds a salty, buttery flair unlike traditional breadcrumbs.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick evenly to the chicken.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the flour and pretzels to the chicken for a perfect crust.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Mixed into the egg wash for a subtle tang that brightens the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth without overwhelming the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic for a rounded seasoning profile.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple essentials to enhance all components.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the sauce, giving it rich creaminess and a sharp zing.
• ½ cup milk: Creates the creamy base for the mustard-cheddar sauce.
• 1 cup mustard-cheddar sauce: Our luscious finishing touch that brings all the flavors together, detailed below.

How to Make Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Prepping your workspace early speeds up the process and keeps things tidy as you go.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Generously season each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple seasoning forms the flavorful foundation beneath that crispy pretzel crust.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

Organize three bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs mixed with Dijon mustard, and the last filled with coarsely crushed pretzels. This setup ensures your chicken gets coated evenly and the layers cling perfectly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, coating it completely. Then transfer it into the egg and Dijon mixture, letting the excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the crushed pretzels, making sure they stick well for a golden, crunchy finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the coated breasts on your lined baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the pretzel crust turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 6: Whip Up the Mustard-Cheddar Sauce

While the chicken bakes, combine milk, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until warm, then gradually melt in the cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste and remove from heat.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Allow your Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce to rest for a few minutes after baking. This step lets the juices redistribute for the juiciest bite. Then drizzle the velvety sauce over the chicken and get ready to enjoy every delicious mouthful.

How to Serve Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce:

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous contrast to the rich sauce and crunchy chicken. Feel free to add a lemon wedge on the side for a little brightness that cuts through the creaminess.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans to balance its richness. Creamy mashed potatoes or a simple garden salad also complement the hearty texture and flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, serve the chicken sliced on a platter with bowls of mustard-cheddar sauce for dipping. Alternatively, make sandwiches by layering sliced pretzel chicken with lettuce, tomato, and extra sauce on a brioche bun for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate will prevent the crust from becoming soggy and preserve the texture best.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken breasts without sauce for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze the mustard-cheddar sauce in a separate container to thaw and reheat later.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) to maintain the pretzel crunch, heating for about 10-15 minutes. Warm the mustard-cheddar sauce gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring frequently to keep it smooth and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use pretzel crumbs from store-bought pretzels?

Absolutely! Crushing store-bought pretzels coarsely is perfect for that crunchy crust. Just avoid pretzels that are heavily salted or flavored to keep control over the taste.

Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard in this recipe?

If you don’t have Dijon on hand, spicy brown mustard or yellow mustard can work in a pinch. Dijon adds a subtle tang and smoothness that elevates the sauce and coating, but these alternatives won’t drastically change the dish.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pretzels and substitute regular flour for a gluten-free blend. Make sure to double-check that all other ingredients, like mustard and Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free as well.

What’s the best way to get the pretzel coating to stick?

The three-step breading process is key: flour first, then egg with mustard, then pretzels. Each step helps seal the next layer, ensuring a crispy, well-adhered crust that doesn’t fall off during baking.

Can I make the mustard-cheddar sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and gently reheat it before serving. Just stir occasionally while reheating to keep it smooth and prevent any separation.

Final Thoughts

When you want to brighten up your dinner routine with a dish that delivers texture, flavor, and a little bit of comfort, Pretzel Chicken with Mustard-Cheddar Sauce is an absolute winner. It’s approachable for cooks of all levels and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share the table. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a favorite you happily make again and again.

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